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 1117 I
 
 But thy doom is fixed, thou Cruel One, and even now the avenger's hand 
 is at the door. Behold, and tremble ! "
 
 THE 
 
 STORY OF RUSTEM 
 
 AND 
 
 OTHER PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 FROM FIRDUSI 
 
 BY 
 
 ELIZABETH D. RENNINGER 
 
 ILLUSTRATED BY J. L. S. WILLIAMS 
 
 NEW YORK 
 
 CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS 
 1909
 
 COPYRIGHT, 1909. BY 
 CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS 
 
 Published September, 1909
 
 ?Z 
 
 DEDICATION 
 
 ONCE upon a time, not so many years ago, a librarian in one of our 
 large cities conceived the idea of forming a hero club for the boys of 
 her neighborhood. So it came to pass that for two years, every 
 Wednesday evening, between thirty and fifty young heroes assembled 
 in the club-room of the library to listen to the story of some great 
 hero, told either by the librarian or by some visiting story-teller. 
 
 Now, as the object of the club was not only amusement, helpful 
 entertainment, and inspiration, but also to influence the boys' reading, 
 they were introduced first to the Greek heroes: Theseus, Perseus, 
 Hercules, Jason, and the heroes of Troy. And after these came the 
 heroes of chivalry: Charlemagne, Roland, Oliver, Ogier the Dane, 
 and the four Aymon brothers. Then followed Siegfried, King 
 Arthur, and the Red Cross Knight. Yea, and even that gay little 
 fellow in green brave Robin Hood. And sprinkled in with these 
 more or less mythological heroes were those of a more practical type: 
 Father Damien, Livingstone, Lincoln, Peter Cooper, and a number of 
 every-day heroes who so well exemplify the growth in heroic ideals 
 in our century as contrasted with those of primitive times. Boy 
 Heroes were also presented, and finally, in her search for good 
 story-hour material, the librarian decided to introduce the boys to 
 some of the great Persian heroes they being not so well known. 
 
 And, since the boys' delight in this series of stories really inspired 
 the thought of making it possible for other story-tellers and older 
 boys and girls to enjoy them too, therefore this book is appropriately 
 and affectionately dedicated to the Hero Boys of the Bushwick 
 Branch of the Brooklyn Public Library a more appreciative and 
 promising set of youths than whom never resolved to do, and dare, 
 and be good, practical, every-day heroes. 
 
 845004
 
 FOREWORD 
 
 THE aim of this series of stories which, through the 
 medium of Firdusi, mirrors so fascinatingly the legendary 
 history of Persia, has been, not only to provide for the 
 story-teller a treasure-house wherein may be found pure 
 gold, refined for ready use, every coin of which may be 
 stamped with the narrator's own individuality for the 
 inspiration and entertainment of any group of children, 
 but also, indirectly, to present to older boys and girls, in 
 attractive form, the story of the Shah-Nameh in miniature. 
 
 When the material for the stories was originally collected, 
 the author's idea was simply to work out for her own use 
 in story-telling to children a picture presentation of a de- 
 lightful series of tales little known to the young. Accord- 
 ingly, like the fabled busy bee, she scrupled not to enter the 
 most exclusive Persian gardens, dipping into the cup of 
 each bright posy containing the least mite of the sweets 
 for which she was delving her desire being to give to this 
 particular jar of honey not the Atkinson, or the Mohl, or 
 the Arnold flavor alone, but a composite which should be 
 all of these, and yet distinctly individual and unique, the 
 point of view being not the usual one of the translator, the 
 paraphraser, or the raconteur working upon the lines of the 
 epitomist, but rather that of the moving picture artist and 
 the story-teller combined. 
 
 The debt of the author, consequently, is large, and ac- 
 knowledgment difficult. For while original translators of 
 vii
 
 viii FOREWORD 
 
 the great epic, as Mohl, in French, and Atkinson and 
 Helen Zimmern, in English and Arnold in his noble 
 poem " Sohrab and Rustem" have contributed most lib- 
 erally to this series of word-pictures, yet many additional 
 treasures also have been discovered and secured, even from 
 general works such as, for example, Benjamin's "History 
 of Persia," and altogether from sources too varied and 
 fugitive, and too thoroughly woven into the fibre of her 
 own text, to be individually acknowledged. The debt, 
 however, is none the less great. 
 
 It only remains to be said that if, when started upon 
 their mission, these stories give to children at large as 
 much pleasure as they gave to the particular group of 
 "heroes" for whom they were worked out, they will not 
 only justify their right of being, but also their method of 
 preparation, which, though without scholarly pretensions, 
 may yet serve to make better known and loved one of 
 the masterpieces of literature, alas, too little familiar to- 
 day even to grown-ups well versed in European classics. 
 
 E. D. R. 
 
 NORTHUMBERLAND, PA., September, 1909.
 
 CONTENTS 
 
 INTRODUCTION xiii 
 
 PAGE 
 
 KAVAH THE BLACKSMITH i 
 
 FERIDOUN THE GLORIOUS 22 
 
 IRIJ, A GENTLE HERO 36 
 
 MlNUCHTR THE AVENGER 50 
 
 ZAL OF THE WHITE HAIR 63 
 
 RUSTEM THE WONDER CHILD 83 
 
 RUSTEM THE YOUNG WARRIOR 95 
 
 RUSTEM 's SEVEN LABORS, OR ADVENTURES .... 120 
 
 RUSTEM THE PEHLIVA 161 
 
 RUSTEM'S ROMANCE 175 
 
 SOHRAB THE YOUTH 193 
 
 SOHRAB AND THE WARRIOR MAIDEN 2O2 
 
 THE WRATH OF RUSTEM 212 
 
 RUSTEM THE SPY 224 
 
 THE COMBAT OF SOHRAB AGAINST RUSTEM .... 230 
 
 SIAWUSH THE PERSIAN SIR GALAHAD 259 
 
 ix
 
 CONTENTS 
 
 PAGE 
 
 RUSTEM THE AVENGER 279 
 
 How GEW HELPED A HERO-PRINCE UNTO A THRONE 284 
 
 LATER FEATS OF RUSTEM 302 
 
 ISFENDIYAR'S SEVEN LABORS, OR HAFT-KHAN ... 324 
 
 THE COMBAT OF ISFENDIYAR AGAINST RUSTEM . . . 337 
 
 THE DEATH OF RUSTEM 355
 
 ILLUSTRATIONS 
 
 " But thy doom is fixed, thou Cruel One, and even now 
 the avenger's hand is at the door. Behold, and 
 tremble!" Frontispiece 
 
 Then pressing the golden casket unto his breast, he 
 
 spake unto God in his grief 48 
 
 Then in graceful circles she swept slowly down unto 
 
 the wondering father 74 
 
 The two rode side by side into Zabulistan 86 
 
 Mad with pain, he sprang at Rustem like a wild 
 
 elephant 150 
 
 And finally, in his perplexity, he consulted his astrologers 172 
 The days passed for both like a happy dream ... 190 
 
 They drew their long Indian swords and fell to work 
 
 again 238 
 
 At evening they came unto a vast wood, reaching many 
 
 leagues 260 
 
 Seated beside it a youth like unto a royal cypress . . 292 
 xi
 
 ILLUSTRATIONS 
 
 He discovered the magician deeply engaged in 
 
 incantation and witchcraft 304 
 
 Isfendiyar seized his bow, and whiz! whiz! went a 
 
 shower of arrows 348
 
 INTRODUCTION 
 
 THE world has few great epics. In fact, it has been said 
 that there are perhaps but six in all. Yet the materials 
 for an epic are to be found among all nations in those 
 traditions, half-fact, half-fiction, which cluster about the 
 great national heroes whose deeds of prowess make the 
 era in which they lived stand forth before our eyes, clear- 
 cut and brilliant, the canvas filled from end to end with 
 deeds of daring, scenes of love, violence, and romance 
 which, through all ages, thrill and make their own appeal 
 to the heart of man. 
 
 Epics are written, as a rule, in the infancy of a race, and 
 they all have this in common, that they are not the inven- 
 tion of a single individual, but being founded upon nationap) 
 traditions, are handed down orally from one generation to 
 another, until, in the fulness of time, one of the world's 
 great poets stretches forth his hand, gathers together all the 
 beautiful flowers that have blossomed in the fancy of his 
 people as has been so happily said of Firdusi and 
 having breathed upon the precious blossoms, plants them 
 in new beauty in the Gardens of Paradise, there to bloom 
 on among the immortals, a joy and delight forever. 
 
 Among the truly great national epics, two fall to India 
 the Mahabharata and the Ramayana; two to Greece 
 the Iliad and the Odyssey; one to the North the Nibel- 
 ungenlied; and one to Persia the Shah-Nameh. 
 
 The Shah-Nameh without question the greatest of the 
 Eastern epics is seven times the length of the Iliad, 
 
 xiii
 
 xiv INTRODUCTION 
 
 being in fact much longer than the Iliad and the Odyssey 
 together, comprising in all 60,000 couplets, and having oc- 
 cupied Firdusi thirty years in writing. The poem presents 
 us, in most musical rhythm, with a complete view of a cer- 
 tain definite era of civilization the Persia of the Heroic 
 Age; an age of chivalry rivaling in mighty deeds of prowess 
 and romantic interest the mediaeval chivalry of Charle- 
 magne and the glorious Peers of France. And, moreover, 
 we have here a portrait gallery of distinct and unique in- 
 dividuals, the bright, particular star being Rustem, the 
 great hero whose superhuman strength, courage, and"\ 
 loyalty prevented Persia, for hundreds of years, from fally 
 ing into the hands of her foes. 
 
 In writing the Shah-Nameh it is said that, in addition 
 to his poetic and historic incentives, Firdusi had a distinctly 
 patriotic motive. For, being an ardent lover of things 
 Persian, he hoped thus to keep alive in the hearts of his 
 ^countrymen the glories of their ancestors, in order that 
 they might not degenerate into mere puppets under Arab 
 domination. Now that Firdusi had this end in view is 
 shown not alone by the theme and spirit of the epic, but also 
 by the diction employed, for the poet adheres rigorously 
 throughout to the native Persian, using few Arabic words, 
 the consequence being that no work in the literature of Per- 
 sia is so free from foreign admixture as the Shah-Nameh. 
 
 Unfortunately, no complete copy of the great "Iliad 
 of the East" is known to exist, though there are innumer- 
 able MS. copies, some of them wondrously beautiful, the 
 scribes having used Egyptian reeds, and the blackest of 
 ink which never fades ; the writing being done on the 
 finest of silk paper, powdered with gold and silver dust; 
 the margins richly illuminated; the whole perfumed with
 
 INTRODUCTION xv 
 
 sandal- wood, or some costly essence; and the title-page of 
 elaborate design. 
 
 The best known translations of the Shah-Nameh are: 
 an abridgment in prose and verse, by Edward Atkinson; 
 Jules Mohl's French translation, which is perhaps the most 
 scholarly work; Helen Zimmern's excellent paraphrase; 
 the versions given in Reed's Persian literature, Benjamin's 
 "History of Persia," and various other partial adaptations. 
 
 As for Firdusi (Abul Kasim Mansur) the "Poet of 
 Paradise," who gave to the world the Shah-Nameh, many 
 are the poetic legends that cluster about his name, making 
 it extremely difficult to give any authentic account of his 
 life. Authorities differ as to the exact date, but he is said 
 to have been born at Shahdab, a suburb of Tus in Khoras- 
 san, somewhere about A. D. 930. His father's name is 
 quite unknown, but he seems to have been one of the 
 Dihkan, or landed gentry of Persia. It is also said that he 
 was a gardener, and that Firdusi received his name from 
 the spot which he cultivated (Firdus, i. e., Paradise). 
 However that may be, the legend goes on to relate that, it 
 having been communicated to the father in a dream that 
 his son would have a great future, he had given to Firdusi 
 the best education the time and place could afford. The 
 boy was carefully educated, therefore, in the Arabic lan- 
 guage and literature, the Old Persian, and the history and 
 traditions of his country. 
 
 Firdusi seems to have been a dreamy youth, for it is 
 recorded of him that he spent many hours beside the canal 
 which ran through his father's grounds, perusing eagerly 
 the old legends of the early wars of his country as exempli- 
 fied in the splendid deeds of her heroes; or in dreaming of 
 the great things which he, himself, meant to accomplish
 
 xvi INTRODUCTION 
 
 one day for the glory of Persia. Yea, and the lad was 
 practical, too, for aside from his own personal dream of 
 greatness, his great hope was that, having himself achieved, 
 he might be able to build for Tus, his native city, a great 
 dike of stone which should prevent the fearful inundations 
 which, from time to time, wrought such devastation and 
 ruin to the poor people of Tus. 
 
 Little seems to be known of Firdusi's younger manhood, 
 but it appears that his poetic gifts were early perceived 
 and fostered, and that he spent not his time in idle dream- 
 ing.^ For suddenly it came to light that, while at the Court 
 of Mahmud, the Sultan's poets were laboring under the 
 direction of that great patron of literature to produce from 
 the records already accumulated a history of Persia in 
 rhyme, all unaided, in an obscure village, one unknown to 
 fame was attempting the same great undertaking. Now 
 thus it came to pass that Mahmud who had the records, 
 and Firdusi, who possessed the gifts, were brought to- 
 gether. 
 
 And this having come to pass, Firdusi basked from this 
 time forth in the royal favor. A beautiful house was given 
 him by the Sultan, the walls of which were decorated with 
 martial scenes painted by the great artists of Persia, in 
 order to fire the imagination of the poet; the Bustan- 
 Nameh, a collection of the chronicles and traditions of 
 Persia, together with other valuable records were placed at 
 his disposal; and thus, happily equipped and surrounded, 
 the poet worked unhampered upon his great masterpiece. 
 Yea, for thirty long years Firdusi wrought, and when at 
 last the 60,000 couplets of the great Shah-Nameh were 
 completed, he rejoiced, for was he not to receive a re- 
 ward of a thousand pieces of gold for each thousand
 
 INTRODUCTION xvii 
 
 couplets ? And with this princely sum could he not now 
 carry out his long-cherished dream of a dike for his fellow- 
 townsmen ? 
 
 But, alas! Firdusi, while at the Court, had incurred 
 the enmity of the Sultan's prime-minister, who resented 
 the fact that he, the great prime-minister, was not also 
 mentioned in the eulogy to Mahmud which prefaced the 
 great epic poem. Poisoning the mind of the Sultan against 
 Firdusi, therefore, the spoiled favorite of the Court man- 
 aged that the money promised the poet should be paid in 
 silver instead of gold. Now Firdusi was at the bath when 
 the money was brought to him, and in his anger at the 
 insult thus offered him, he immediately divided the money 
 into three parts, giving them respectively to the keeper of 
 the baths, the seller of refreshments, and the slave who 
 brought the money. "The Sultan shall learn," he said 
 proudly, "that Firdusi did not spend the labor of thirty 
 years to be rewarded with silver." 
 
 Of course this independence of spirit upon the part 01) 
 Firdusi angered the haughty Sultan, who, when he learned/ 
 that his gift had been despised, condemned the poet to be 
 trampled to death by an elephant upon the following morn- 
 ing. But this vile deed came not to pass, for the outraged 
 poet fled, first giving into the hands of the prime-minister a 
 sealed paper containing a bitter satire upon Mahmud, 
 which he desired to be inserted in the epic in place of his 
 former eulogy. 
 
 The chronicles relate that, as a result of this most unfor- 
 tunate incident, Firdusi, like Dante, became for long years 
 an exile and wanderer, being driven by the persecutions of 
 the Sultan from court to court, from country to country. 
 Finally, however, after many weary years of banishment
 
 INTRODUCTION 
 
 and harassing care, friends of Firdusi, with great difficulty, 
 extorted from the Sultan a pardon, and the ill-starred poet, 
 old and broken, returned unobtrusively to his native town. 
 Here the days of the immortal bard soon drew to a close. 
 It is related that, hearing a little child singing in the streets 
 of Tus some of his own verses, his bitter wrongs and 
 sufferings were so vividly recalled to him that he was 
 seized with faintness, and, being carried to his home, soon 
 after expired. His death occurred A. D. 1020, in the eighty- 
 ninth year of his age. Being refused burial in sacred 
 ground, the Sheik also declining to read the customary 
 prayers over his grave, the old poet was buried in the 
 beautiful garden where so hopefully he had dreamed the 
 long, long thoughts of poetic youth. Now, alas ! thus ended 
 the earthly career of grand old Firdusi, the "Oriental 
 Homer," as he has been called; also greatest poet of Persia, 
 and one of the greatest of all literature. 
 
 But, though Firdusi was now peacefully laid to rest, his 
 story runs on. For, according to one of the legends, it is re- 
 lated that the Sultan, having at last learned of his minister's 
 treachery, banished him from his court forever. And not 
 only this, for being stricken with remorse at having driven 
 unjustly from his side the poet who had made his court 
 "resplendent as Paradise," as he himself had said, Mah- 
 mud determined to make reparation. Learning, therefore, 
 that Firdusi was living obscurely at Tus, he sent him the 
 long-delayed payment, together with camels loaded with 
 princely gifts but too late! The royal retinue met the 
 funeral of the great poet at the city gates. Firdusi being 
 no more, the Sultan's gifts were offered to the poet's 
 daughter, by whom they were disdainfully refused. Other 
 relatives, however, accepted the peace offering, building
 
 INTRODUCTION 
 
 with it a bridge, the dreamed-of dike, and a house of refuge 
 for travellers all of which memorials are now gone. 
 
 But Firdusi's fame lives on, growing brighter with the 
 years. When the storm-tossed, unappreciated old poet, 
 therefore, in self- justification said that he had written what 
 no tide should ever wash away, what men unborn should 
 read o'er oceans wide, he made no idle boast. For to-d y, 
 not only Persian boys and girls, but the young people of the 
 world as well as all lovers of good literature are reading 
 with delight the fascinating legends of Persia, as mirrored 
 forth in the Shah-Nameh, or Book of Kings, of the grand 
 old poet, Firdusi the Persian.
 
 KAVAH THE BLACKSMITH 
 
 ONCE upon a time, so the old chronicles relate, 
 during the reign of Jemshid the Shah, there 
 dwelt in the deserts of Arabia a King named 
 Mirtas. Now Mirtas was rich in flocks and herds of 
 goats, sheep and camels which yielded up a bounteous 
 store of balmy milk; and this milk the generous King 
 always distributed in charity among the poor. So God 
 was pleased with Mirtas, and increased his favor upon 
 him accordingly. 
 
 Now this King, smiled upon by the Almighty, had one 
 priceless possession, his only son, Zohak, who, in his 
 youth, seemed destined to rival his father in nobility of 
 character. But, alas! upon this noble young cypress, so 
 luxuriant in buds of promise, there suddenly fell a blight, 
 disastrous alike to the house of Mirtas and to the land of 
 Persia. And this is how it came about. 
 
 One day Iblis, the Evil One, roaming the earth in 
 search of mischief, chanced to stray into the palace of 
 Mirtas, and, in so doing, he happened upon the charming 
 young Zohak. Now Iblis was disguised as a noble, and so 
 eloquent and full of guile was his discourse, that the young 
 prince, fascinated, eagerly besought his new friend to let 
 the music of his voice continue to delight him. 
 
 Then Iblis, who saw here a fertile field for his guile, was 
 pleased to see the charm work so well. So, his tongue 
 dropping honey, he thus spake unto the youthful Zohak: 
 
 "O Pearl of the East, alas! for though I am master of 
 still sweeter converse, I may not address it unto one so 
 l
 
 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 young unless thou wilt first enter into a solemn compact 
 with me never under any pretence to divulge what I shall 
 tell unto thee." 
 
 Alas ! Zohak was guileless and simple of heart, and so, 
 suspecting no evil, he sware unto Iblis that he would obey 
 him in all things, for he believed him to be noble and 
 good. Judge, then, of his surprise and horror when, the 
 oath taken, Iblis said unto him: 
 
 "O Light of the Universe, thou who art fair and wise 
 and valiant, give ear unto the voice of thy friend, and soon 
 thy stately young head shall be raised above the stars. 
 Listen! Thy father hath become old, and longeth to enter 
 into his reward. While he liveth, necessarily thou wilt 
 remain unknown. Let him, therefore, no longer stand in 
 thy way. The robes of sovereignty are ready, and better 
 adapted to thee. But raise thy hand, therefore, and the 
 name of Mirtas shall be naught but a beautiful memory 
 in the world. The leaves in the Book of Fate turn slowly, 
 but who can change what is written on its pages?" 
 
 Thus spake wily Iblis and as the meaning of this 
 fiendish suggestion dawned fully upon him it would be 
 hard indeed to picture to you Zohak's horror and dismay. 
 Enough to say that at first he refused utterly to be a 
 party to his father's death, but, though the struggle was 
 long and obstinate, Iblis finally terrified and subdued the 
 youth by telling him that if he refused, his own life would 
 be the forfeit. Then, in order to make it easier for him 
 to agree to the proposal, Iblis assured Zohak that he 
 need not perform the deed with his own hands, but merely 
 consent to it. 
 
 So Iblis dug a pit on the pathway that led to Mirtas's 
 house of prayer, and covered it over with grass. And
 
 KAVAH THE BLACKSMITH 
 
 presently, when night was preparing to throw her dark 
 mantle over the earth, as the King, according to his cus- 
 tom, was going unto the house of prayer, it came to pass 
 that he fell into the pit, and his legs and arms being 
 broken by the fall, he shortly after expired. 
 
 Thus, according to the legend, perished Mirtas, that 
 father whose tenderness would not suffer even the winds 
 to blow upon his son too roughly. And thus also Zohak, 
 in his tender youth, sold himself unto the Evil One. 
 
 Now Iblis, having succeeded in getting Zohak into his 
 power, continued to bestow upon him the most devoted 
 attention and flattery, with the view of moulding him 
 entirely unto his will. Among other things, therefore, he 
 taught him the art of magic; and, having done so, he 
 assured him that through it he should become the greatest 
 monarch of his time. But though the ear of Zohak was 
 ever open unto Iblis, he ruled his people in both good 
 and evil, for he was not yet wholly given over unto 
 guile. 
 
 Seeing this, therefore, Iblis imagined a new device in 
 his black heart, for he was not yet satisfied with the degree 
 of authority which he had obtained over the young King, 
 desiring above all things to see him completely given over 
 unto evil. Consequently, with this end in view, by the aid 
 of magic, he took upon himself the form of an engaging 
 youth, and, appearing thus before Zohak, he craved per- 
 mission to serve him as director of the royal kitchen. 
 Pleased with the guileless manners of the youth, and with 
 the delicious and savory food which he caused to be spread 
 before him, the King finally commanded that the keys of 
 the great store-rooms be given him, and that he be allowed 
 to reign supreme over the royal board.
 
 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 You must know that up to this time, men had been 
 nourished with bread, and fruit, and herbs alone; Iblis, 
 however, prepared flesh for Zohak, and invented the art of 
 cooking. And cunning indeed was this device, for the 
 King was delighted with the new dishes made from every 
 variety of bird, and four-footed animal, and lived but for 
 each new repast. Every day, therefore, something dainty 
 and rare was prepared for the royal table, and every day 
 Iblis increased in favor, for the flesh gave unto the King 
 courage and strength like unto a lion, and the fame of his 
 table was great in the land. 
 
 But of all the new dislies prepared for the King, an egg 
 was unto him the most delicious of all. "What can be 
 superior to this?" he cried in ecstasy, rolljng his eyes tow- 
 ard heaven, and heaving a sigh of profound content. 
 
 "Speak not so," replied Iblis, smiling, "for to-morrow 
 thou shalt partake of something still more savory." 
 
 The next day, therefore, the magician of the King's 
 kitchen brought unto his majesty's table delicious fare, 
 served exquisitely to please the eye as well as taste, par- 
 tridge and pheasant, a banquet for a prince. Then Zohak, 
 delighted beyond measure, exclaimed impulsively: 
 
 "O Prince among Cooks, verily for this new wonder 
 wrought in our behalf, whatsoever thou desirest, and I can 
 give, is thine. Thou hast but to speak the word." 
 
 Then Iblis, glad and little anxious, replied unto His 
 Majesty that he had but one request one unimportant 
 wish. It was to kiss the mighty monarch's naked shoul- 
 der a mere whim! 
 
 So Zohak, unsuspicious, stripped his shoulders, glad to 
 gratify a wish so flattering and so simple. Then cunning 
 Iblis quickly stooped, and twice he kissed the King with
 
 KAVAH THE BLACKSMITH 
 
 fiendish glee, and, having done so, vanished from the sight 
 of men. 
 
 But alas, alas for Zohak! for forth from his shoulders, 
 at each salute, sprang hissing serpents, venomous and 
 black, whose fiery tongues darted unceasingly about, as 
 though in search of prey. And at this, imagine, if you can, 
 Zohak's horror and dismay! his angry cries of fear and 
 rage! the frenzied haste with which he gave command to 
 have the ugly creatures severed at the roots! But vain 
 their utmost haste; vain all their zeal, for no sooner were 
 the writhing things cut off, than quickly forth once more 
 they sprang, like veritable jacks-in-a-box. And though 
 the King's servants wearied not, but struck again and 
 again, and yet again, it was all to no purpose, for every 
 time that the vile creatures were severed, they sprang 
 forth bigger, blacker, and uglier than before, each new 
 pair writhing and hissing yet more angrily, as though, 
 like Iblis, they longed for naught so much as to lodge 
 their poisonous venom deep in the hearts of men. 
 
 And now, indeed, was there tumult in the King's court! 
 And well was it for Iblis that, though the most diligent 
 search was instituted, he was nowhere to be found through- 
 out the whole dominion. Useless, therefore, was their 
 search; and all to no purpose did the King's ministers 
 offer mountains of gold as a reward for him who should rid 
 His Majesty of the awful evil laid upon him. In response 
 to the proclamation the most celebrated magicians and 
 wise men of the East flocked unto the court of Zohak, 
 but, among them all, not one was found able to charm 
 away the dreadful vipers. 
 
 Every sunrise a new magician, every sunset failure re- 
 ported; this was the record of the wretched days of Zohak
 
 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 the King from this time forth, until hope was almost dead 
 in his heart. Then one day, as the unhappy monarch sat 
 upon his gorgeous throne, sunk in the most abject misery, 
 Iblis, in the guise of a skilled physician, once more pre- 
 sented himself before the King, and, after examination and 
 mature deliberation, thus spake the cunning one unto his 
 prey: 
 
 "O Shelter of the Universe, I have searched the heavens 
 diligently concerning the horrible evil which hath fallen 
 upon thee, and in thy horoscope I read a bitter tale. 
 For behold, in the Book of Fate it is written that from 
 this time forth thou shalt be known among men as the 
 'Serpent King,' since the stars have decreed that the 
 hissing, writhing vipers shall remain connected with thee 
 throughout thy life, involving thee in perpetual misery. 
 Hope not, therefore, by the arts of magic to avert, thy fate, 
 for charms are of no avail when pitted against the stars." 
 
 Alas! As Zohak heard this dire interpretation of his 
 horoscope, he uttered an exceedingly bitter cry, and gave 
 himself up utterly to despair; seeing which, Iblis smiled, 
 for he knew that the hour of his triumph was near. Con- 
 cealing his satisfaction, however, he thus spake unto 
 Zohak: 
 
 " O Heaven Accursed, despair not yet so utterly, for one 
 faint ray of hope saw I glimmering for thee from afar, 
 which, if thou wilt, thou mayest cause even yet to burst 
 forth into a sunbeam of promise. For lo, it is written, that 
 if yonder writhing creatures be fed daily upon human 
 brains, which would be the same unto them as poison, in 
 the course of time they may die; at any rate, in this way 
 only can thy life be prolonged and made easy. It is for 
 thee to decide."
 
 KAVAH THE BLACKSMITH- 
 
 So, having thus cunningly lodged this evil suggestion in 
 the mind of the King, Iblis once more vanished, evidently 
 through the ceiling, for there floated down thence unto the 
 ears of the unhappy monarch the mocking refrain : 
 
 "If life hath any charm for thee, 
 The brain of man their food must be!" 
 
 Now the truth was, Iblis hated the human race, and he 
 was, therefore, greatly delighted to think that as a result 
 of his cunning, in time a great portion of mankind would 
 be destroyed by the dreadful serpents. For well he knew 
 that Zohak had now become so desperate that he would 
 do anything to obtain release from his misery. What he 
 did not know was that all his craft and cunning were 
 powerless to affect God's plans for the children of Adam. 
 
 But alas for Zohak! And alas also for his subjects! 
 For the chronicles relate that from this time forth was he 
 given over wholly unto evil, and that each sunrise saw two 
 young men of the flower of the land slain to gratify the 
 furious hunger of the serpents. And lo! the fear of the 
 King was great in the land. 
 
 Nor did the fame and fear of the Serpent King confine 
 itself to his own borders. Alas, no ! for Persia was also to 
 suffer at his hands. And now you must hear something of 
 the Shahs of Old, but particularly of the great Shah, Jem- 
 shid, whose fate was so closely bound up with that of 
 Zohak. 
 
 In the old chronicles of Persia we read that Kaimurs 
 was the first Shah of Iran, and that he was chosen by the 
 people to rule over them. Prior to his time, each man 
 lived for himself, in the most primitive way, owning alle- 
 giance to no one but Ormuzd, the great God of the Persians.
 
 8 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Now the legends tell us that Kaimurs was so wise and 
 good that even the animals assembled to do him homage, 
 and to help fight his battles. Yea, it is even said that, when 
 he was crowned, great lions and tigers came forth from 
 their lairs in the distant forest, and that with them there 
 crouched low before the monarch wolves and leopards, 
 together with the fierce wild boar, and the fleet-footed 
 ass of the desert. A strange coronation pageant, surely! 
 
 But Kaimurs was loved by men, as well as beasts, and 
 so he prospered and grew strong. Unfortunately, how- 
 ever, he had one very powerful enemy, the great King of 
 the Deevs, who ruled over Mazinderan, a province to the 
 north of Kaimurs's kingdom. And since not only Kai- 
 murs, but, later on, many other of the Shahs and heroes of 
 Iran were called upon, again and again, to battle with this 
 wily race, you will be interested to hear what they were like. 
 
 Well, these wicked Deevs, according to the descriptions 
 given of them, appear to have been a strange mixture of 
 man, and animal, and evil spirit. They walked upright, 
 like men, but were possessed of horns, long ears, and tails; 
 and many of them are described as cat-headed. Great 
 numbers of them too are said to have been small and black, 
 but there were also many giants among them, and as one 
 and all of them were past masters in the arts of sorcery 
 and enchantment, it required very great courage indeed to 
 fight against them, since in battle they could, at will, call 
 up whirlwinds and great fires, while they, themselves, 
 could vanish whenever it pleased them to do so. You can 
 easily understand, therefore, that it took the courage of a 
 real hero to go forth to battle against the Deevs. 
 
 This, however, Kaimurs's subjects were called upon to 
 do, since a day came when the King of the Deevs sent out
 
 KAVAH THE BLACKSMITH 
 
 against Iran a great army of cat-headed men, giants, and 
 other monsters of horrible aspect, with the command 
 utterly to subdue the land. Now in this emergency, the 
 son of Kaimurs, who was very brave, was sent at the 
 head of a large army to repulse the invading host. But 
 alas! the young prince was slain at the very beginning of 
 the battle, and his army scattered unto the four winds. 
 Then was Kaimurs forced to flee, and Persia was given 
 over unto the Deevs. 
 
 Now long and bitterly did the Shah of Iran grieve for 
 the loss of his son, and the overthrow of his kingdom. But 
 presently, in the far-off cavern where he lay hid from his 
 enemies, he heard the voice of the Angel Serosch, which 
 said unto him: 
 
 "O Beloved of Ormuzd, come forth into the sunshine of 
 the world, for lo! victory lieth in the hands of thy grand- 
 son. Send him forth, therefore, to grasp it." 
 
 So Kaimurs took heart, and calling before him his 
 dearly loved grandson, the youthful Husheng, he com- 
 manded him to go forth to meet the mighty Deevs in the 
 name of Ormuzd the Blessed, who promised a sure victory 
 unto his children. 
 
 Before going, however, Husheng, who was wise, as well 
 as valiant of heart, in addition to his loyal subjects, sum- 
 moned to his assistance all the wild beasts of the forests, 
 and even the birds of the air, whose duty it was to confuse 
 the foe by flying in their faces, and by making fearful 
 swoops at their eyes. 
 
 A strange sight, therefore, must have been Husheng's 
 army, when drawn up in battle array; but a yet more ter- 
 rible thing to see was the mighty host of advancing Deevs, 
 enveloped as it was in lurid flames and clouds of smoke.
 
 10 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 But the sight caused brave Husheng not a tremor, so filled 
 with courage and the certainty of victory was he. 
 
 And, in the fiercely contested battle which ensued, so 
 great was the heroism of the Persians, inspired as they were 
 on all sides by their brave young leader, that not even the 
 Deevs could stand before them. Husheng himself, also, 
 performed marvels in valor, slaying in single combat, not 
 only the King of the Deevs, but also the most important 
 members of his family. Whereupon, in dismay, the 
 remnant of the Deevs betook themselves to ignominious 
 flight. Howbeit, few escaped; for, by the orders of 
 Husheng, they were pursued by the tigers, wolves, and 
 panthers, which tore them to pieces as they fled. 
 
 It was indeed a glorious victory, and as a result of it, the 
 kingdom of Persia was at last secure; and from this time 
 forth, under Husheng's mighty sway, civilization grew 
 apace, reaching at last a climax in the long reign of Jem- 
 shid, who was grandson of the valiant Husheng. 
 
 Now it is related of Jemshid that for seven hundred 
 years he sat upon the throne of light, during which time 
 Persia enjoyed her Golden Age of prosperity. And not 
 only was Jemshid girt about with power and glory, but the 
 whole world was happier for his sake; since, smiled upon 
 by Ormuzd, during all this period, no one died or was ill, 
 and the King, along with his subjects, remained ever in the 
 prime of youth and strength, old age, death, pain, and 
 sorrow being unknown. 
 
 During this period, also, the Deevs were subservient 
 unto the great Shah, building for him magnificent palaces, 
 inside of which were lofty halls with springing fountains, 
 silken carpets covering soft divans on which to lie, and 
 walls hung with pictures, embroidered silks, and jewelled
 
 KAVAH THE BLACKSMITH 11 
 
 hangings, all of which were fashioned by the Genii. They 
 also erected for Jemshid a most glorious throne, upon 
 which they transported him from one city to another in the 
 twinkling of an eye. Now so gorgeously beautiful was this 
 throne that it became the wonder of the world. 
 
 Jemshid, however, was not a valiant warrior like Hush- 
 eng, but a builder of civilization. He first separated men 
 into classes, divided the year into periods, encouraged 
 building, and likewise is credited with the discovery of 
 perfumes, the art of healing, the invention of ships, and 
 many other useful means of benefiting mankind. It was 
 he also who instituted the Neurouz, or New Year, at the 
 time of the spring solstice, a festival still celebrated in 
 Persia with many ceremonies during ten days. 
 
 You will not be surprised to hear, therefore, that 
 Jemshid's power increased continually; for, learning of 
 his wisdom and goodness, men flocked unto his stand- 
 ard from all corners of the earth. And small won- 
 der, since he was indeed a most beneficent and glorious 
 King. But alas! the time came, so the legends tell us, 
 when Jemshid's head was turned by the height of power 
 that he had reached. Then it came about that pride took 
 possession of the heart of the King, and he forgot unto 
 whom he owed his power and the source of his blessings. 
 It is even said that the time came when, so great was his 
 arrogance, he beheld only himself in the world, and he 
 named himself God, and sent forth his image to be 
 worshipped. 
 
 Alas for Jemshid! When the Mubids, who are astrol- 
 ogers and wise men, heard this decree of the King, they 
 bowed their gray heads in sorrow, for they feared that 
 the downfall of the Shah was near, since, forgetting his
 
 12 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Creator, he assumed himself to be the sole architect of his 
 greatness. But their words of wisdom only resulted in 
 driving the King, who seemed possessed of an evil Deev, 
 into still greater folly. 
 
 So there finally came a day when Jemshid commanded 
 by proclamation that all his subjects should assemble in 
 the great square in front of the royal palace, and there, at 
 the appointed hour, a wonderful scene took place. 
 
 Howbeit, in order to appreciate what happened, you 
 must know that the Deevs had made of the royal abode 
 a palace like unto a fairy dream. Indeed yes; for all 
 the outside walls, we are told, were covered with beauti- 
 fully painted tiles, while the many windows and bal- 
 conies were made of fretted stone work, encrusted with 
 cut and polished glass, so that the whole glorious build- 
 ing, whose towers seemed almost to pierce the heavens, 
 glittered and sparkled as though besprinkled with 
 diamonds. 
 
 But in front of the beautiful palace, there glittered 
 something still more gorgeous: it was the throne of the 
 mighty Jemshid, studded, not with glass, but with every 
 precious stone you have ever heard tell of, and a great 
 many that you have not. In fact, so resplendent was it 
 when lit up by the brilliant Eastern sunshine, that it be- 
 came almost too dazzling for mortal eyes. 
 
 On the morning in question, however, the gorgeous 
 throne was empty, though about it were stationed, as 
 guards, a great company of cat-headed Deevs, gigantic 
 Afreets, and fearsome-looking Jinns; while the magnifi- 
 cent, jewel-studded awning was held in place by graceful 
 Peris, a kind of fairy. All of which indicated that the 
 Shelter of the Universe would soon appear.
 
 KAVAH THE BLACKSMITH 13 
 
 But though yet quite early, already every inch of stand- 
 ing room in the great square, as far as the eye could see, 
 was crowded with dark faces and eager, upturned eyes. 
 So impatient were the people to behold the Glory of the 
 World and to learn his purpose in so calling them together! 
 
 And presently, the trumpets having been sounded, and 
 the tom-toms beaten, the glorious Jemshid deigned to 
 gladden the eyes of his loyal subjects. Slowly he mounted 
 the gorgeous throne, and, as he did so, all the people fell on 
 their faces before him, performing obeisance. As they 
 rose to their feet, however, so majestic and magnificent was 
 Jemshid's presence that, with one accord, the people burst 
 forth into aloud and prolonged "Bah! Bah!" of admira- 
 tion, which form of expressing astonishment and pleasure 
 is said to be customary among the Persians still to-day. 
 
 But you must hear how Jemshid looked to cause such 
 a "Bah! Bah!" of approval. Well, to begin with, the 
 great Shah wore many silken coats, one over the other, 
 and a beautiful fur mantle outside all the rest. As for his 
 gorgeously embroidered, baggy trousers, behold, they were 
 tight at the ankles, while his slippers were of pure gold. 
 Yes, and upon his head he wore an immense, many-colored 
 turban, in the front of which blazed a huge diamond, set 
 about with rubies and pearls. As for the rest, he was tall, 
 and dark, and majestic, looking every inch a king. 
 
 As he raised his sceptre, therefore, commanding silence, 
 the tumult at once ceased, while all awaited breathlessly 
 his words. But the great Jemshid merely asked his people 
 a simple question. He said: 
 
 "Long, long, O my people, have you basked in the sun- 
 shine of a Golden Age. Now tell me, unto whom do you 
 owe this marvellous prosperity?"
 
 14 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 In response to this query, at once the air rang with 
 shouts of, "Hail unto Ormuzd the Blessed! Hail unto 
 the great God of the Persians!" 
 
 Alas! This was not the reply that the arrogant Jemshid 
 had desired or expected, so with a frown as black as the 
 cloud of smoke which one could see curling lazily up into 
 the blue from the great volcano Demavend, not far dis- 
 tant, the great Shah thundered forth at his people: 
 
 "O Foolish Ones, blind as moles or worms, know you 
 not, then, that there is but one God of the Persians, even 
 Jemshid the Glorious ? Bow the knee unto him, therefore, 
 and not unto Ormuzd." 
 
 Now the wonder of such arrogance held the great crowd 
 breathless for one intense moment; then, suddenly, a 
 shiver ran through the vast multitude, and the cry went 
 up: "Demavend! Look at Demavend! The volcano! 
 Oh, the volcano!" Then all eyes turned unto the moun- 
 tain. And lo! the snow-covered crest was all aglow with 
 dusky red, while a huge black cloud issued from the crater, 
 and moved with lightning speed down toward the plain, 
 finally hovering like a great black bird of ill omen over the 
 awe-struck people, who turned in their terror for aid unto 
 Jemshid. 
 
 But in vain, for even as his subjects gazed upon him, the 
 grandeur and glory of the proud king vanished as if by 
 magic. There was no thunder and no lightning, but sud- 
 denly, without a sign of warning, the gorgeous palace fell 
 silently into a heap of unsightly ruins; the gem-studded 
 throne, the wonder and glory of the world, crumbled into 
 a heap of worthless dust; and Jemshid's royal robes be- 
 came fluttering rags, such as the very beggars of the streets 
 would disdain.
 
 KAVAH THE BLACKSMITH 15 
 
 However, this was not the most terrible thing that hap- 
 pened upon that eventful day, for along the ground glided 
 venomous snakes and loathsome lizards, which quickly 
 sprang up out of the ruins, while down from the black 
 clouds there rained a veritable army of huge scorpions, 
 tarantulas, and swiftly running centipedes. 
 
 Now it is unnecessary to say that very soon these loath- 
 some creatures had the great square to themselves, for 
 verily in their mad terror and anxiety to escape, the people 
 fairly flew from the spot. And thus ended their allegiance 
 to Jemshid, for recognizing in the day's happenings a sure 
 sign of the displeasure of Ormuzd the Blessed, they cried 
 out in their anger that they would no longer obey Jemshid 
 as their Shah, since through his pride and presumption 
 he had forfeited the favor of the Almighty. 
 
 So it happened that the people of Iran and Turan, 
 having heard that in the land of Arabia there reigned 
 a monarch mighty and terrible unto his foes, now turned 
 unto Zohak, and Jemshid, fleeing upon his milk-white 
 charger before the Arab host, became a wanderer upon the 
 face of the earth, without a friend, and with many foes. 
 And Zohak, the Serpent King, ruled in his stead. 
 
 But though the royal wanderer carried a high price 
 upon his head, the chronicles relate that for the space of 
 twice fifty years no man knew whither he was gone, for 
 he hid from the wrath of the Serpent King. Howbeit, such 
 was the zeal of his enemy, that in the course of time Jemshid 
 could no longer escape the spies of Zohak, who finally capt- 
 ured him, as he wandered upon the shores of far Cathay, 
 and brought him in triumph before the Serpent King. 
 
 Yea, like the narcissus bent with heavy dew, oppressed 
 with shame, his hands behind his back, and ponderous
 
 16 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 chains passing from neck to feet, thus stood before the 
 cruel King the once so glorious Jemshid. But alas! the 
 sorry sight awakened in the breast of Zohak not the 
 lightest thrill of pity as, gazing with a scornful smile upon 
 the fallen monarch, tauntingly he said : 
 
 "O Lord of the World, and Heaven, behold thy wor- 
 shippers at thy feet! But where is thy diadem? thy 
 throne ? Where is thy kingdom now ? Where thy sover- 
 eign power ? Alas, I see them not ! " 
 
 At this cruel speech, the drooping figure straightened, 
 and kingly Jemshid, gazing unflinchingly into the serpent 
 eyes of his tormentor, thus calmly spoke : 
 
 "O Serpent-haunted One, unjustly am I brought in 
 chains before thee, betrayed, insulted thou the cause of 
 all. Feign not, therefore, to feel my wrongs, but work thy 
 cruel will, and thou shalt see that still I am a King." 
 
 Imagine Zohak's rage at this defiance mixed with royal 
 scorn! His inward fury! Though smiling, still he said: 
 
 "Most Kingly King, bereft of throne and power, one 
 thing at least remaineth yet unto thee : to choose the man- 
 ner of thy passing. Shall I behead thee, stab thee, impale 
 thee, or with an arrow's point transfix thy heart? What 
 is thy kingly choice?" 
 
 Now seeing the evil intent of the King, and scorning to 
 cringe before a thing so base, Jemshid, raising high his 
 royal head and smiling proudly, said: 
 
 "O Slave of Iblis, since I am in thy power, do with me 
 what thou wilt. Why should I dread thy utmost ven- 
 geance? Why express a wish to save my body from a 
 moment's pain? True, I have lived too long, but Jem- 
 shid's memory in the world will live, undimmed by thee." 
 
 Then Zohak, realizing from these words that it was not
 
 KAVAH THE BLACKSMITH 17 
 
 in his power to break the spirit of proud Jemshid, resolved 
 upon a most horrible deed of vengeance. Ordering, forth- 
 with, that two planks be brought, the royal prisoner was 
 fastened between them, and his body divided the whole 
 length with a saw, making two figures of Jemshid out of 
 one. 
 
 So perished the great Jemshid, because he was pre- 
 sumptuous, and in his pride would have lifted himself 
 above his Maker. But the good deeds which he wrought 
 in the first half of his reign have caused his name to live, 
 and even to-day the Persians look back with pride unto the 
 splendor of their country in the days when the great Shah 
 Jemshid sat upon the throne of light, comparing it with 
 the glory of King Solomon. 
 
 But Persia groaned under the tyranny of Zohak, who 
 day by day continued to pile evil upon evil until the meas- 
 ure thereof was full unto overflowing, and darkness had 
 settled over all the land because of his wickedness. Shed- 
 ding blood had now become the evil King's pastime, and 
 he hesitated not at committing every species of crime, 
 until despair filled all hearts. 
 
 "The serpents still on human brains were fed, 
 And every day two youthful victims bled; 
 The sword, still ready, thirsting still to strike, 
 Warrior and slave were sacrificed alike." 
 
 Howbeit, things could not go on thus forever, and so, in 
 the course of time, thanks unto Ormuzd, there sprang forth 
 from among the Persians a hero who should avenge the 
 wrongs of his countrymen, and add new lustre unto the 
 glory of Persia. And of this you shall hear. 
 
 For behold, it happened that, all unheeded by Zohak, 
 there lived in his dominion at this time a man named
 
 18 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Kavah, a blacksmith, remarkably strong and brave, and 
 possessing a large family of fair sons, who were the joy of 
 his life. One by one, however, they were taken from him 
 to be killed to feed the King's serpents, until but one 
 remained unto him, and finally the lot fell also unto this 
 last of his sons to meet a like death. Then Kavah arose 
 in his wrath and sought the court of the Shah. 
 
 But you will not be surprised to learn that about this 
 same time, Zohak was having evil dreams; and so, op- 
 pressed by terrors of conscience, he called together an 
 assembly of his nobles, and insisted that they sign a docu- 
 ment asserting that he, Zohak, had ever been unto Persia 
 a just, wise, and beneficent King. And behold, it was even 
 as this remarkable paper was being signed that the cry of 
 one who demanded justice was heard at the gates. 
 
 Wishing to show unto his nobles, therefore, that he 
 stood ever eager to do justice, Zohak commanded that the 
 petitioner be brought immediately into the audience-room. 
 And lo! Kavah, the avenger, stood before the King, and 
 the assembly of the nobles. Now so terrible was the 
 aspect of this deeply wronged man that, for a moment, all 
 gazed at him in wonder. Then Zohak, the Serpent King, 
 opened his mouth and thus addressed the sturdy Kavah: 
 
 "O Brawny One, I charge thee give a name unto him 
 who hath done thee wrong!" 
 
 Then Kavah, knowing by the two writhing serpents 
 that it was the Shah who questioned him, smote his head 
 with his hands and uttered a savage cry. But, by a mighty 
 effort, regaining his self-control, he once more faced the 
 King calmly, as he said: 
 
 "O Serpent King, thou beholdest before thee Kavah the 
 blacksmith, a blameless man, who hath come into thy
 
 KAVAH THE BLACKSMITH 19 
 
 presence to sue for justice. And lo! it is against thee, 
 O King, that I raise my cry, and with reason. Seventeen 
 brave sons have I called mine, yet to-day but one remain- 
 eth alive, and even now the mouths of thy brain-devouring 
 serpents yawn to feed upon him also, to still their demon 
 hunger. Thou art the King, 'tis true, but why on innocent 
 heads cast fire and ashes? If Iblis, for thy evil deeds, 
 hath given unto thee the form of hissing dragon, why to 
 me be cruel ? Why give the brains of my fair sons as ser- 
 pent food, and then dare prate of doing justice? But thy 
 doom is fixed, thou Cruel One, and even now the avenger's 
 hand is at the door. Behold, and tremble!" 
 
 Now so fierce and sudden was this assault that Zohak, 
 appalled by the rage and sorrow of a father whose lan- 
 guage sounded indeed like a cry of doom, at once ordered 
 that the son of Kavah be brought forth and restored unto 
 him. Then, regaining somewhat his arrogance, he bade 
 the brawny smith inscribe his name upon the lying regis- 
 ter, already signed by some of the mightiest nobles of 
 the land. 
 
 But Kavah, when he learned the purport of the register, 
 hesitated not, but turned wrathfully upon the assembled 
 nobles, crying indignantly: 
 
 "O Feeble-hearted Ones, are you then men, or what, 
 leagued with this human monster ? Only a common man 
 am I, and yet never will I lend my hand unto such a lie, 
 and no more shall you, nobles though you be!" 
 
 Seizing the hated register, therefore, to the astonishment 
 of all, Kavah tore it fiercely into bits, and trampled it 
 under his feet with rage and scorn. Then, pausing not, 
 he strode forth from the palace, taking his rescued son 
 with him. And so majestic and fearless was his bearing as
 
 20 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 he passed, that none, not even the King, dared raise a 
 finger to detain him. 
 
 So, feeling that at last the time had come for action, 
 from the palace, Kavah went straight unto the market- 
 place. Here he rehearsed unto the people what wrongs 
 the nation suffered, urging them to shake off the yoke of 
 the cruel Serpent King, who was not even of their land. 
 And so confident of success was Kavah, so eloquent and so 
 brave, that multitudes, whose children had been sacrificed 
 unto the brain-devouring vipers, flocked eagerly about 
 the blacksmith, shouting madly: "Justice! Give us 
 justice!" 
 
 Then Kavah, feeling the need of a standard about 
 which the people might rally, took off the leathern apron 
 wherewith blacksmiths cover their knees when they strike 
 with the hammer, and, raising it aloft upon the point of 
 a lance, cried out joyously : 
 
 " Behold, O my countrymen, the banner which shall 
 lead us on to victory, delivering us from out the hands of 
 the cruel Serpent King." 
 
 Then a glorious shout, the music of which reached even 
 unto the palace, went up from the people, who thronged 
 eagerly about their brave and brawny leader, mad for 
 revenge. So Kavah led them forth from the city bearing 
 aloft his standard that standard which, later on, adorned 
 with gold and jewels, and called the "Flag of Kavah," 
 became a sacred symbol, honored by every Persian king 
 in succeeding generations as the true sign of royalty. 
 
 But Kavah knew that not unto him was it given to be 
 the real liberator of Persia from the tyranny of Zohak. 
 He had kindled the flame of revolt, but a greater than he 
 must make of the spark a devouring fire. Howbeit, the
 
 KAVAH THE BLACKSMITH 21 
 
 hero was ready, as you shall hear, thanks unto Serosch, 
 the blessed Angel of Pity. 
 
 For you must know that this angel, who each night flieth 
 seven times around the earth in order to watch over the 
 children of Ormuzd, saw and was moved with compassion 
 for the sufferings of the people; and so, presently, a grand- 
 son was born unto Jemshid, whose horoscope decreed that 
 he should not only be the deliverer of his country, but 
 should reign long and gloriously upon the throne of light. 
 And this Kavah knew, for the Blessed Angel had made it 
 known unto him in a dream, after he had proved himself 
 brave and fearless of heart. 
 
 And since the Orientals say that a secret known unto 
 two is one no longer, you, too, shall know that the name 
 of the coming hero was Feridoun. But of how, by his 
 splendid deeds, he earned for himself the title of "The 
 Glorious," you must hear in another story.
 
 FERIDOUN THE GLORIOUS 
 
 UPON a starry night, during the festival of roses, 
 long, long ago in the land of Persia, the Angel 
 Serosch, flying through the night, brought unto 
 the home of Abtin, son of Jemshid, a charming babe, des- 
 tined for mighty deeds. Now the name of the child was 
 Feridoun, and it is related that upon the night of his birth 
 Zohak, the Serpent King, had a terrible dream, which you 
 shall hear. 
 
 Behold, it came to pass that as the King lay upon the 
 royal couch, suddenly, in his sleep, he felt himself attacked 
 by three warriors, two of them of powerful stature, but 
 the third a mere youth, slender like unto a young cypress. 
 In his hands the stripling bare a huge, cow-headed mace, 
 and with it he felled Zohak pitilessly to the ground. And 
 useless was all resistance, for though the frenzied monarch 
 struggled madly, the doughty youth bound his hands, and 
 casting a rope about his neck, dragged him rudely along 
 in the presence of crowds of hooting, gibing people. Now 
 at this crisis, so great was the King's anguish that, scream- 
 ing horribly, he awoke. And lo! it was all a dream. 
 
 But in those times dreams were considered portentous; 
 so now Zohak, springing up terror-stricken from his bed, 
 hastily called together his Mubids, although it was still the 
 dead of night, and, having related unto them the particulars 
 of his frightful experience, he demanded a faithful inter- 
 pretation of his dream. 
 
 22
 
 FERIDOUN THE GLORIOUS 23 
 
 Now the Mubids saw in this vision the approaching 
 overthrow of the tyrant, but they were afraid to tell the 
 truth unto Zohak, fearing for their lives. So three days 
 were allowed to pass under the pretence of studying more 
 scrupulously the signs, and still no one had the courage to 
 speak out. Then the King grew angry, and in this dilem- 
 ma, Zirek, one of the wise men, finally stood boldly forth 
 and said: 
 
 "O Lord of the World, much we deplore it, but the stars 
 foretell for thee a bitter fate, since thy dream announces 
 the coming of a great and glorious prince, who shall hurl 
 thee from thy throne, and bind thee in chains upon the 
 mountains. Feridoun is his name, and he shall add lustre 
 unto the house of Jemshid, and unto the land of Persia, 
 though naught but woe shall he bring unto the Ser- 
 pent King, whose day is already darkening into endless 
 night." 
 
 Alas for the King! Hearing this interpretation of his 
 dream, he fell senseless upon the ground, and the Mubids 
 fled from before his wrath. Now long he lay as one dead, 
 and when consciousness did finally return unto him, he 
 could neither eat nor sleep, but continued overwhelmed 
 with fear and misery. And from this time forth, the leg- 
 ends say, Zohak knew neither rest nor joy, the light of his 
 day being already darkened. 
 
 But instead of checking the King in his evil course, this 
 experience seems only to have stimulated him to further 
 cruelty. For, warned by the prophecy of the Mubids, 
 Zohak now issued a decree that every person belonging 
 unto the race of Jemshid, wherever found, should be 
 seized and fettered and brought to him; for he hoped thus 
 to secure the fateful prince of his dream. Sending out his
 
 24 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 spies everywhere, therefore, he caused the world to be 
 scoured for Feridoun, but in vain. 
 
 Nevertheless, the young prince was passing his first 
 baby days peacefully in the King's dominions, watched 
 over tenderly by his father and mother, and daily growing 
 in strength that should fit him to carry out the noble task 
 assigned unto him by Providence. 
 
 For Abtin, the father of Feridoun, knowing of the 
 King's decree in regard to the race of Jemshid, had 
 avoided discovery by continuing to reside in the most re- 
 tired and solitary places; but one day his usual caution 
 forsook him, and he ventured beyond the limits of safety. 
 Now this was most unfortunate at this time, for Zohak 
 had learned of the glorious son born unto Abtin, and his 
 spies were everywhere searching for him. Abtin's impru- 
 dence, therefore, was dreadfully punished, for, being recog- 
 nized, he was carried before the King, in whose presence 
 he was foully slain. 
 
 But not so was Zohak to secure the desire of his heart, 
 for when Faranuk, the mother of Feridoun, heard of the 
 dreadful catastrophe which had befallen her husband, at 
 once she took up her infant and fled, pausing for naught. 
 Then, footsore and weary, her heart torn with fear and 
 sorrow, day after day this brave young mother kept up her 
 flight, traversing burning sands and dark, demon-haunted 
 forests, seeking a place of safety for baby Feridoun, who, 
 realizing not his peril, cooed and laughed and slept, always 
 clasped close in his mother's arms. 
 
 Finally, one evening just as the sun was kissing the 
 world good night, away in the depths of the forest Fara- 
 nuk came upon a beautiful spot of pasture ground. And 
 presently, the soft tinkle, tinkle of a bell falling upon her
 
 FERIDOUN THE GLORIOUS 25 
 
 ear, she hastened forward, and behold! an old, old man, 
 gentle of face and mien, milked a wondrous cow, whose 
 hairs were like unto the plumes of a peacock for beauty. 
 Now the name of this cow of remarkable lineage was 
 Purmajeh, and the keeper of the pasture gave away in 
 charity the abundance of milk which she supplied. 
 
 Gently accosting the old man, therefore, Faranuk was 
 assured a welcome; and so here she rested for the night, 
 thinking to continue her flight in the morning. But, as 
 a consequence of the grief and distress of mind which she 
 had suffered, the poor mother was unable to supply her 
 child with food, and so, urged by the gentle old man, she 
 decided to remain in this quiet retreat for a time, at least. 
 
 But, continually afraid of being discovered and recog- 
 nized, Faranuk knew not a moment's peace. Finally, it 
 was borne in upon her, she knew not how, that it would 
 be safer for little Feridoun if she were not with him, and 
 so, resigning him to the protection of God, she left the 
 pasture, and continued her flight alone unto Mount Alborz. 
 
 Now the keeper of the pasture, into whose care the 
 mother had confided her little one, cherished the child with 
 the fondness and affection of a most devoted parent; and 
 so, for three happy years, Feridoun rolled and tumbled in 
 the pasture, and Purmajeh was his nurse. A wondrous 
 playfellow, also, was Purmajeh, and well indeed was it for 
 Persia that the baby shouts of glee reached not unto the 
 ears of the Serpent King. 
 
 But better still was it that Feridoun was in the guar- 
 dianship of Ormuzd, and that Serosch, his messenger, 
 neither slumbered nor slept. For it happened that one 
 night, the Angel of Pity, resting for a moment upon the 
 battlements of Zohak's palace, after having flown seven
 
 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 times around the world, heard issue thence a fiendish laugh 
 of triumph, which sent the Gentle-hearted One speeding 
 upon swift wings toward Mount Alborz. And there, 
 Faranuk, thinking that she dreamed, listened unto the 
 voice of the Angel, which warned her that Feridoun was no 
 longer safe in the pasture. 
 
 As the morning dawned, therefore, Faranuk, with swift 
 feet, hastened back unto the forest hiding-place, confiding 
 unto the gentle old man of the pasture her intention of 
 conveying Feridoun unto a safer place of refuge upon 
 Mount Alborz. But the keeper, who loved Feridoun above 
 all else in the world, remonstrated with the young mother, 
 saying sorrowfully unto her: 
 
 "Why, O Faranuk, dost thou take the child unto the 
 mountain? Alas! he will surely perish there, while here 
 he is so happy!" 
 
 But Faranuk dared not disregard the warning of the 
 Angel Serosch, and so, comforting the old man, with her 
 boy in her arms she once more took up her flight. And 
 wise was she in doing so, for intelligence had reached 
 Zohak that the young prince was being nourished and 
 protected by the keeper of the pasture, and, like a hungry 
 tiger, he was preparing to spring upon his prey. 
 
 That same day, therefore, at the head of a force of 
 picked men, he proceeded secretly unto the pasture, hop- 
 ing to surprise the keeper, and thus secure the Prince. 
 But once more his prey had escaped him, and when he 
 discovered this, verily, he was like unto a mad elephant in 
 his fury. For, not only did he cruelly slay the keeper of 
 the pasture, and the wondrous cow Purmajeh, but so great 
 was his frenzy that he stopped not until he had slain every 
 living thing around about, and made of the beautiful
 
 FERIDOUN THE GLORIOUS 27 
 
 spot a desert. And this done, diligently he continued his 
 search, but neither sight nor tidings could he get of Feri- 
 doun, and his heart was filled with rage and despair. 
 
 Now upon Mount Alborz at this time there dwelt a 
 pious hermit, and unto him Faranuk committed her boy, 
 informing the old man that her son was destined for 
 mighty deeds. So, being gladly welcomed, from this time 
 forth the mother and child abode with the pious old 
 recluse, who generously divided with them all the food 
 and comforts which God gave him, at the same time, as 
 Feridoun grew older, developing and storing his mind 
 with various kinds of knowledge. Yea, and he also con- 
 sulted the Books of Fate concerning him, after which he 
 said unto Faranuk: 
 
 "O woman, I perceive that the Prince foretold by wise 
 men and astrologers as the destroyer of Zohak and his 
 tyranny, is thy son. Rejoice, therefore, and be glad of 
 heart, for 
 
 "This child to whom thou gavest birth, 
 Will be the monarch of the earth." 
 
 But Faranuk's heart was filled, not only with joy, but 
 also with foreboding, upon hearing her own convictions 
 thus confirmed, for well she knew and dreaded the fearful 
 power of Zohak. Nevertheless, her days were happy, for 
 had she not her boy still with her ? And was he not under 
 the sheltering care of the Almighty ? 
 
 But the years tarried not, and so when twice eight sum- 
 mers had passed over the head of Feridoun, he was no 
 longer a child, but a bright, handsome youth of sixteen, 
 strong and valiant of heart. Then one day he sought out 
 his mother, and questioned her as to his lineage. So 
 Faranuk, seeing that the time was ripe, told unto her son
 
 28 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 stories of Iran and the Shahs of Old; of the valiant 
 Husheng; of the glorious reign of Jemshid, his illustrious 
 grandsire; of the cruel Serpent King; and, last of all, of his 
 father's tragic fate. 
 
 Now Feridoun listened intently unto his mother's tales; 
 then, standing up straight and tall, with blazing eyes and 
 flushed cheeks, he said unto Faranuk: 
 
 "O my mother, verily I will uproot this monster from 
 the earth! Yea, I, Feridoun, will cause his name to be 
 blotted from the Book of Kings, so that soon he shall be 
 no more than an evil memory in the world. For long 
 enough hath Iran groaned under his tyranny, and too long 
 hath my father's blood cried for vengeance." 
 
 But Faranuk, troubled because of the blaze she had 
 kindled, replied warningly unto Feridoun, saying gently: 
 
 "O Pearl of my Heart, let not thy youthful anger be- 
 tray thee; for how canst thou, friendless and alone, stand 
 against the master of the world? Be not, therefore, pre- 
 cipitate. If it be thy destiny to overcome this tyrant, in 
 due time the Almighty will bless thee with means sufficient 
 for the purpose. Wait, therefore, for the sign." 
 
 But his mother's words of caution found no echo in the 
 heart of this youth who, hearing for the first time of the 
 cruel monster who had robbed him of a father, and made 
 of his mother's life that of the hunted, would hear of 
 naught but the immediate overthrow of the tyrant. There- 
 fore he replied unto Faranuk: 
 
 "'Tis Heaven inspires me, mother, therefore be not so 
 fearful. As for the Serpent King, not even he, with all his 
 demon host, can stand against a valiant heart and a sturdy 
 arm, guided by the great God of the Persians. Wherefore, 
 then, delay?"
 
 FERIDOUN THE GLORIOUS 29 
 
 Howbeit, though glorying in the spirit of her son, Far- 
 anuk still tried to dissuade him from immediate action, but 
 in vain; for, even while she spake, a mighty throng was seen 
 approaching Alborz, led by one who bore aloft, as a stand- 
 ard, an apron uplifted upon a lance. Then both mother 
 and son knew that the time for action was at hand, and 
 glad was Kavah's welcome. And presently, Feridoun, the 
 helmet of Kings upon his head, sought once more his 
 mother's presence, saying proudly unto her: 
 
 "Behold, O my mother, thy warrior-son, who goeth 
 forth unto the battle against the mighty Zohak! Unto him 
 it is given to fight, but it remaineth unto thee to pray God 
 for our safety, and for victory." 
 
 So Faranuk, understanding, as she gazed, that it was 
 useless to try longer to hold this bold young eaglet in the 
 mountain eyrie, since he sensed power in his wings, blessed 
 her son, bidding him go forth in the name of God to free 
 his country, and to avenge his father's death. 
 
 But, before going, Feridoun caused to be made for him 
 a mighty club, the pattern of which he traced for Kavah 
 upon the ground; and the top thereof was the head of a 
 cow, in memory of Purmajeh, his nurse. He also did 
 honor unto the standard of Kavah, causing it to be en- 
 cased in rich brocades of Roum and hung about with 
 jewels. Then, when all was ready, the little company set 
 forth toward the west to seek Zohak, the two elder broth- 
 ers of Feridoun accompanying them. 
 
 Now Faranuk, when she beheld her warrior-sons in full 
 battle array, looking so brave and splendid, wept with 
 pride and joy; but fear was in her heart too, and her every 
 breath was a prayer unto Ormuzd, imploring his blessing 
 upon the great undertaking.
 
 30 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 But fear was far from the heart of gallant young Feri- 
 doun as, at the head of his brave followers, he rode forth 
 upon his patriotic mission. The way was rough, the men 
 poorly equipped, but their hearts were full of courage and 
 hope, and new recruits were added daily. 
 
 Nor was the sign of God's blessing withheld. For, one 
 evening, in the course of their progress, as the valiant host 
 neared the place where it was to camp for the night, sud- 
 denly, upon the heights above them, they beheld a shrine, 
 or place of pilgrims, erected for the worshippers of Or- 
 muzd. Placed upon a grassy slope, high above the turmoil 
 of the road, the spot seemed to breathe peace and serenity; 
 so much so, indeed, that, coming upon it unexpectedly, 
 a hush fell upon the horsemen as they gazed; for, bathed in 
 the glory of the sunset, a touch of solemnity thrown about 
 it by the stately old cypresses whose heads soared majes- 
 tically up into the blue, it seemed indeed a place in which 
 God might delight to meet his people. 
 
 Profoundly impressed by the beauty and sacredness of 
 the spot, Feridoun decided at once to visit the shrine, since 
 he felt the need of inspiration and guidance. And in re- 
 sponse to his prayers, it is recorded that there appeared 
 unto him a radiant Angel who foretold unto him the 
 varied fortunes he was to encounter, and bestowed upon 
 him a magic power that should enable him to overcome 
 the wiles of his foes. And so radiant was the vision that, 
 when the hero returned from the shrine, all noticed his 
 changed appearance. 
 
 "Bright beamed his eye, with firmer step he strode, 
 His smiling cheek with warmer crimson glowed." 
 
 But alas! When the two brothers of Feridoun saw his 
 altered mien, the pomp and splendor of his appearance,
 
 FERIDOUN THE GLORIOUS 31 
 
 the demon of envy took possession of their hearts, and they 
 privately meditated his destruction, saying one unto the 
 other: 
 
 "Are not we, also, princes of the house of Jemshid? and 
 older by birth! Why, then, should Feridoun lord it over 
 us?" 
 
 So it came to pass that one day when the two envious 
 ones spied Feridoun asleep at the foot of a mountain, im- 
 mediately they hastened unto the summit and rolled down 
 upon him a heavy fragment of rock, with the intention of 
 crushing him to death. But the clattering noise of the 
 stone awoke Feridoun, and instantly employing the 
 knowledge of magic which had been communicated unto 
 him, the stone was suddenly arrested by him in its course 
 of destruction. 
 
 Now the two brothers, who were eagerly watching to see 
 the result of their effort, beheld with astonishment and fear 
 this event out of the course of nature. Hastening down 
 from the mountain, therefore, they said stutteringly unto 
 their brother: 
 
 "We were on the mountain, but we know not how the 
 stone became loosened from its place. God forbid that it 
 should have done injury unto Feridoun!" 
 
 Well aware, however, that this was the evil work of his 
 brothers, the young Prince was yet wise enough to take 
 no notice of the conspiracy; and, instead of having them 
 punished, he raised them unto higher dignity and conse- 
 quence, for he thought of his mother, and wished to fill her 
 cup with naught but joy. 
 
 So all went well with Feridoun, and presently the little 
 army, directed by Kavah, arrived at Bagdad, which is 
 upon the banks of the Tigris. Here they halted, and Feri-
 
 32 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 doun called for boats to convey them across; but the 
 ferrymen refused their aid, saying that it was the King's 
 decree that none should pass save only those who bore the 
 royal seal. 
 
 Alas! This angered Feridoun, and so, regarding not the 
 foaming stream, nor the dangers hidden within its treach- 
 erous breast, boldly the young leader plunged with his 
 steed into the rushing river; and lo! all the army followed 
 after him. And now, indeed, was the struggle sore, for 
 again and again it seemed as though the waves would 
 bear them down; but the gallant war-steeds struggled on, 
 and finally all stepped out in safety upon the farther shore, 
 where they rested for the night, giving thanks unto Ormuzd 
 for bringing them safely through so great a peril. 
 
 On the following day, however, they turned their faces 
 toward the city which is now called Jerusalem, the proud 
 capital of Zohak, whose glorious palace raised its towers 
 unto highest heaven in beauty. Here, Feridoun giving the 
 signal by striking the brazen gates with his cow-headed 
 mace, the army stormed the walls, burst in the gates, and 
 put the garrison to flight. Then, entering the palace, the 
 youthful leader cast down the evil talisman of miraculous 
 virtues that was graven upon the walls, and slew the wicked 
 Deevs who guarded it. He also destroyed or vanquished 
 with his cow-headed mace all the enchanted monsters and 
 hideous shapes that appeared before him, and released, 
 with his own hands, all the black-eyed damsels that Zohak 
 had imprisoned there among them, the two beautiful 
 sisters of Jemshid. 
 
 And behold! having accomplished this marvellous feat, 
 Feridoun was hailed by all the people of the city as their 
 deliverer, for they were sick unto death of the cruelty
 
 FERIDOUN THE GLORIOUS 33 
 
 and tyranny of the Serpent King. So, with shouts of re- 
 joicing, Feridoun mounted the empty throne, and the 
 crown of Iran having been placed upon his head, all the 
 people bowed before him, and named him Shah. 
 
 But, you may ask, where was Zohak that he perished not 
 at the hands of the fateful Prince ? Well, from Jemshid's 
 sisters Feridoun now learned that the tyrant, with an im- 
 mense army, had gone upon a secret mission toward Ind; 
 and, upon questioning further, he ascertained that in this 
 direction lay the country of the magicians with whom the 
 Serpent King was in secret conference, hoping, from a re- 
 nowned enchanter there, to obtain such means as should 
 enable him to charm his enemy into his power. For, said 
 the damsels: 
 
 "Night and day the terror of thy name, O Feridoun, 
 oppresseth him. His heart is all on fire, and life is one 
 long torture to him." 
 
 But if Zohak was troubled before, imagine his surprise 
 and terror when he learned from Kandru, the keeper of 
 the talisman, the strange tidings of the fall of his capital! 
 Disguising his fright, however, the tyrant immediately 
 turned unto his army, hoping by its aid to regain his 
 throne. But in vain; for both soldiers and people at once 
 declared loyalty to the new Shah, resisting, to a man, the 
 offers of gold and jewels and treasure made them. 
 
 So, disappointed in the army, Zohak determined to seek 
 revenge alone. Stealing away secretly, therefore, he pro- 
 ceeded rapidly toward his capital, arriving by night at the 
 palace of Feridoun. There, ascending a height, himself 
 unobserved, he beheld the new Shah, in all the glory of his 
 kingly robes, seated beside the lovely Shahrnaz, sister of 
 Jemshid, enjoying her beauty and the charm of her con-
 
 34 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 versation. Alas! at this sight, the fire of jealousy and re- 
 venge made blind with rage the fallen monarch, who, like 
 a mad elephant, dashed upon Feridoun, thinking to slay 
 him unawares. 
 
 But Feridoun, roused by the noise, started up quickly, 
 and, meeting the charging Serpent King who was indeed 
 a most terrible sight with his cow-headed mace he struck 
 him a powerful blow upon the temple, crushing the bone. 
 Then observing the hissing vipers, Feridoun knew his 
 enemy, and was about to strike again, but his hand was 
 stayed, as the Angel Serosch, swooping down, cried warn- 
 ingly: 
 
 "O Glorious Hero! Slay this human monster not, for 
 his hour is not yet come. To a beetling mountain crag 
 must he be chained, far from the haunts of men, there to 
 die slowly and in torture, for so it is decreed." 
 
 So the cruel Serpent King was led forth unto Mount 
 Demavend, accompanied by a hooting, mocking multi- 
 tude; and there, on the edge of the precipice, over the 
 abyss, he was bound with mighty chains and nails driven 
 into his hands, and left to perish. 
 
 And oh, the woe of Zohak! for behold the hot sun shone 
 down upon the barren cliffs, and there was neither tree nor 
 shrub to shelter him; also the chains entered into his flesh, 
 and his tongue was consumed with thirst. But he was not 
 alone, for continually before him there passed the great 
 procession of his victims: Jemshid, sawn asunder, mock- 
 ingly performing obeisance; then for hours a mighty throng 
 of youths and maidens, sighing as they passed along, "We 
 are the serpents' victims"; and Iblis, too, appeared be- 
 fore the Serpent King, assuring him, as he rubbed his 
 hands and laughed in fiendish glee, that he should con-
 
 FERIDOUN THE GLORIOUS 35 
 
 tinue to live so on and on in torture for a thousand 
 years. So was the wicked Zohak punished for his evil 
 deeds. 
 
 But as for Feridoun, for five hundred years he ruled the 
 world gloriously, and all his days he did that which was 
 beneficent and good, his heart being ever open unto his 
 people. Yea so brave and just and generous was he that, 
 writing of him many hundreds of years later, the great 
 poet Firdusi, to whom we owe these hero tales, is able to 
 say of his countryman 
 
 "The work of heaven performing, Feridoun 
 First purified the world of sin and crime. 
 Yet Feridoun was not an angel, nor 
 Composed of musk or amber. By justice 
 And generosity he gained his fame. 
 Do thou but exercise these princely virtues 
 And thou wilt be renowned as Feridoun."
 
 IRIJ, A GENTLE HERO 
 
 NOW it is recorded that Ormuzd the Blessed caused 
 three sons to be born unto Feridoun the Shah, and 
 these youths were tall and strong, and fair of mien, 
 their mother being the lovely Shahrnaz of the house of 
 Jemshid. But the names of the young princes were not 
 yet known unto men, for it remained unto Feridoun to 
 test their hearts. But before their hearts were tested, the 
 princes were wed, and of this you shall hear. 
 
 Lo, it is chronicled in the Book of Kings that the great 
 Shah, beholding that his sons were come unto years .of 
 strength, sent forth a messenger to search through all the 
 world for three princesses, born of the same father and 
 mother, and adorned with every grace and accomplishment, 
 that should make them worthy of alliance with the line of 
 Jemshid, in order that the princes might be wed. 
 
 So the messenger went forth, travelling far and wide 
 over many lands, at last finding the object of his search in 
 the three beautiful princesses of the house of Yemen. 
 But unfortunately, Serv, the King 'of Yemen, did not wish 
 to part with his three fair daughters, and so put hindrances 
 in the way, requiring the sons of Feridoun to present 
 themselves at his court before he would give his consent 
 unto the alliance. 
 
 Therefore, counselled by their father as to how they 
 
 should conduct themselves, the three princes set forth to 
 
 win their brides. Now they were received by the King of 
 
 Yemen with becoming honor, and as they came through 
 
 36
 
 IRIJ, A GENTLE HERO 37 
 
 the tests to which they were subjected successfully, the 
 King could no longer withhold his consent unto the be- 
 trothals. 
 
 That same night, however, Serv, being a master magi- 
 cian, called forth biting cold and frost, thinking to freeze 
 to death the three princes as they lay upon their perfumed 
 couches in the rose-garden of the King. But, though the 
 cold and frost were sharp enough to kill all the flowers in 
 the garden, the Angel Serosch awakened the princes in 
 time. Whereupon seeing that it was useless to fight against 
 the inevitable, the King finally prepared a great marriage 
 feast, after which the three brides set out with their hus- 
 bands upon the long journey back to Persia. 
 
 Meanwhile the chronicles relate that when informed by 
 couriers of the near approach of his sons with their brides, 
 Feridoun at once determined to go forth to meet them, in 
 order to prove their hearts. And as, above all things, he 
 was anxious to test their courage, he took upon himself the 
 form of a terrible dragon that foamed at the mouth with 
 fury, and from whose jaws vomited mighty flames. 
 
 Stationing himself in a gloomy mountain pass, there- 
 fore, when the train from Yemen drew near, he fell upon 
 it suddenly, like a whirlwind, raising a cloud of dust above 
 the place with his writhings, and roaring so horribly as to 
 cause even the stoutest heart to quake. 
 
 Now, as it happened, the eldest brother was in the lead, 
 and, consequently, he was the first to see the frightful 
 beast about to fall upon them. Being given a moment in 
 which to think, however, he said within himself: "A wise 
 and prudent man fighteth not with dragons." So, turning 
 his back upon the monster, he retreated, leaving the 
 dragon to fall upon his brothers.
 
 38 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 So the furious beast, robbed of the first brother, quickly 
 fell upon the second, who said unto himself : " If I must fight, 
 what mattereth it whether it be a furious lion, or a warrior 
 full of valor?" Placing himself upon guard, therefore, he 
 took up his bow and stretched it, ready for the attack. 
 
 But the youngest of the princes, when he saw the dan- 
 ger which threatened his brother, tarried not afar, but, full 
 of fire and fury, rushed upon the dragon, crying aloud in 
 his rage: u Thou reptile, flee from out our presence, for it 
 is not seemly for thee to strut in the path of lions. Thou 
 beholdest before thee the sons of the glorious Feridoun, 
 armed and ready for the fight. Beware, therefore, lest we 
 plant upon thy head the crown of enmity." Speaking 
 thus, the Prince sprang boldly forward; but, before he 
 could strike, Feridoun, having now divined the character 
 of the princes, vanished from their sight. 
 
 So, the enemy having disappeared, the train from 
 Yemen proceeded upon its way; and when they were 
 come unto the royal palace, the Shah warmly welcomed 
 his sons and the three fair daughters of Yemen, music and 
 rejoicing being heard everywhere in the land. But at the 
 end of seven days, behold, Feridoun called his sons into 
 his presence, and, having seated them upon thrones of 
 splendor, he opened his mouth, and said unto them: 
 
 "O Princes of the house of Feridoun, give heed unto the 
 words which I shall speak unto you. Know, then, that 
 the raging dragon whose breath threatened destruction, 
 was but your father who sought thus to test your hearts. 
 And now, having proved you, I will give unto each a name 
 fitting unto his character. 
 
 "Lo, the first-born shall be called Selim, for in the hour 
 of danger, prudence became his guiding star.
 
 IRIJ, A GENTLE HERO 39 
 
 "And the second, who showed no whit of fear when 
 suddenly confronted by peril, but whose spirit burned 
 ardent as a flame, him will I call Tur, the courageous, 
 whom not even a mad elephant can daunt. 
 
 "But as to the youngest, him I find to be a man both 
 prudent and brave, knowing both how to haste, and how 
 to tarry. Irij, therefore, shall he be called, for first did he 
 show gentleness, but his wisdom and bravery tarried not 
 in the hour of danger." 
 
 And now the ceremony of naming his sons being com- 
 pleted, Feridoun called for the Book of the Stars wherein is 
 written the fate of men, for he wished to divine the destiny 
 of his sons. But alas! after searching the planets, he 
 learned that though the signs pointed to success and re- 
 nown for the two eldest, the horoscope of Irij, the young- 
 est and best loved of his father, indicated misfortune and 
 a tragic end, which disclosure grieved Feridoun deeply. 
 
 Howbeit, the King's programme was not yet finished, for 
 next he proceeded to divide his vast empire, giving the three 
 parts unto his sons in suzerainty. Now unto Selim, he 
 gave the lands lying toward the setting sun; and unto Tur, 
 the eastern provinces reaching even unto China. But 
 unto Irij, he gave Iran with the throne of might, and the 
 crown of supremacy, regarding him as the ablest to rule 
 over the heart of the empire. 
 
 So the brothers now separated, each taking charge of 
 the reins of government in the respective kingdoms, and 
 for many long years they sat upon their golden thrones 
 in happiness and peace. But alas! evil was written 
 in the Book of Fate, and, day by day, as the leaves 
 turned, it brought tragedy ever nearer unto the house of 
 Feridoun.
 
 40 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Verily the great Shah, after a romantic and glorious 
 youth devoted to valiant deeds, had been blessed by 
 Ormuzd with long life, honor, and peace; but now was he 
 grown hoary-headed and full of years, and his strength 
 inclined toward the grave. And sorry to relate as their 
 father grew weak and feeble, the two eldest brothers be- 
 came jealous of their younger brother, Irij, who was des- 
 tined to take precedence of them upon the death of Feri- 
 doun. 
 
 And it was the heart of Selim, particularly, that was 
 turned toward evil, and whose soul gradually became 
 steeped in greed and envy. Day after day, therefore, he 
 pondered bitterly in his spirit the parting of the lands, and 
 anger filled his soul. For Persia was a beautiful land, the 
 garden of spring, full of freshness and perfume, while the 
 other provinces were wild and uncultivated. 
 
 Finally, Iblis gaining full possession of the heart of 
 Selim, he called unto him a messenger, mounted him upon 
 a swift dromedary, and sent him unto his brother Tur with 
 a letter, sealed with his private seal. And the letter read: 
 
 "O King of the house of Feridoun, may thy days be 
 many and glorious! So sayeth thy brother Selim who 
 greeteth thee from out the west, and asketh of thee, shall 
 we, the elder brothers, remain ever satisfied to see the 
 youngest born set high above our heads upon the throne 
 of light? What sayeth Tur the Courageous?" 
 
 Now when Tur had read this letter, behold, his imag- 
 ination became filled with wind, so that his head was 
 raised above the stars. Calling the messenger into his pres- 
 ence, therefore, he said unto him: 
 
 "Thus sayeth the mighty Tur unto his brother: O 
 Star of the house of Feridoun, verily I say unto thee that
 
 IRIJ, A GENTLE HERO 41 
 
 since our father took advantage of our innocence when we 
 were young and simple of heart, with his own hands hath 
 he planted a tree destined to bear bitter fruit for him and 
 his loved Irij. In order, therefore, that thou and I may 
 counsel together how this great wrong may be righted, 
 I follow the swift feet of thy messenger." 
 
 So Selim and Tur met, and, as a result of their conclave, 
 the following haughty message was sent unto Feridoun, 
 their aged father: 
 
 "O thou who draweth with swift feet unto the tomb, 
 behold, thy sons Selim and Tur ask of thee, art thou not 
 afraid to go home unto thy God ?. For verily thine eldest 
 born hast thou treated unfairly, and injustice doth cast its 
 black shadow both before and after thee, since thou hast 
 allotted thy realm with iniquity. We say unto thee, there- 
 fore, command the stripling Irij to step down from the 
 throne of light, and hide him in some corner of the earth 
 where he will be forgotten as we, and where he shall no 
 longer offend our sight. For, are not we the elder broth- 
 ers ? Now art thou warned, and if thou heedest not, then 
 shall come down upon thee from the mountains, fierce 
 warriors filled with vengeance, who will utterly destroy 
 thee." 
 
 Now the herald, who bare this message unto the court 
 of Feridoun, was greatly awed by the magnificence which 
 everywhere greeted him, and marvelled much at the 
 audacity of the writing destined for the King. And this 
 impression was deepened when, having been admitted 
 into the great audience-room of kings, he beheld the 
 mighty monarch, proud and venerable, with snow-white 
 beard reaching unto his waist, seated majestically upon 
 his gorgeous golden throne. But behold ! the look of se-
 
 42 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 renity and peace vanished from the face of Feridoun as he 
 listened unto the cruel words of his sons his soul becom- 
 ing kindled with fury. Rising majestically, therefore, he 
 straightway said unto the messenger: 
 
 "Return, O herald, unto your masters these men 
 senseless and perverse of heart and say unto them: Truly 
 Feridoun rejoiceth that at last his sons have laid bare their 
 hearts before him, for now he knoweth what manner of 
 men they really are. As for the parting of the realm, it 
 was done in equity, according to the wisdom of many coun- 
 sellors. But I ask of you, what shall be said of him who 
 betrayeth his brother for greed ? Verily, he is not worthy 
 to be sprung from a noble race! And now, listen unto the 
 word of warning sent unto you by an aged father. For 
 I say unto you, if you persist in your vile threat, lo! your 
 names shall be blotted out from the house of Feridoun, 
 and destruction utter and sure shall be your inheritance. 
 Pray God, therefore, that he turn your hearts from evil." 
 
 After the departure of the messenger, behold, Feridoun 
 at once informed Iri j of the intent of his brothers, advising 
 him to prepare a great army to oppose them, should they 
 really attempt to carry out their threat. For he said: 
 
 "Alas that it should be true, O my son, but in this 
 world we can look for no defenders unless we are prepared 
 to defend ourselves, and unto the evil of heart, a mighty 
 army speaketh more loudly than the cry of justice." 
 
 But Irij, as he listened unto the words of his father, was 
 very sorrowful, for he was gentle of heart, and loved not 
 strife and bloodshed. Therefore he said unto Feridoun: 
 
 "O Royal Cypress, casting thy gracious shadow over 
 the whole sun-kissed world! Good and not evil hath been 
 thy influence throughout thy long reign for, blessed by thy
 
 IRIJ, A GENTLE HERO 43 
 
 protecting shade, the beauteous flower of peace hath blos- 
 somed radiantly throughout thy kingdom for more than a 
 hundred years. Now I, too, O my father, would reign 
 beneficently, for I care not to be a dragon of war, vomiting 
 upon the world destruction and woe. Suffer me, therefore, 
 to go forth alone unto my brothers that I may still the 
 anger which they feel against me, since rather than dip my 
 hands in fratricidal blood, gladly will I sacrifice both 
 diadem and throne. For verily 
 
 "I feel no resentment, I seek not for strife, 
 I wish not for thrones and the glories of life; 
 What is glory to man ? an illusion, a cheat; 
 What did it for Jemshid, the world at his feet? 
 When I go to my brothers, their anger may cease 
 Though vengeance were fitter than offers o'f peace." 
 
 Now tears filled the eyes of the aged Feridoun as he 
 listened unto the noble words of his son and with heart 
 soothed and quickened as by a gentle shower, he said unto 
 his youngest born : 
 
 "If such be thy desire, O my gentle son, go forth, and 
 may flowers spring up in thy pathway, brightening and 
 making glad unto thee every step of thy feet. But forget 
 not that my life is rooted in thee, and return unto thy 
 father with the speed of the swift-footed dromedary." 
 
 But, before Irij started upon his mission of peace, Feri- 
 doun wrote and gave unto him a letter that he should bear 
 unto his brothers. Now the writing was signed with the 
 royal seal, and it read: 
 
 "Thus sayeth Feridoun the Mighty unto his sons, Selim 
 and Tur : Behold, your youngest brother hath descended 
 from off his throne and is come unto you with peace in his 
 heart, esteeming your friendship of more value than his
 
 44 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 crown and throne. Banishing from your hearts, therefore, 
 all hostility, be kind unto him, for it is incumbent upon 
 the eldest born to be indulgent and affectionate unto their 
 younger brothers. As for me, I am now old, and desire 
 naught so much as to see my sons united; and though 
 your consideration for my happiness seemeth to have passed 
 away, yet are your names still graven upon my heart." 
 
 So, armed with his father's letter, Irij hastened with his 
 modest retinue into Turkestan, where he found the armies 
 of his brothers already assembled. However, he was re- 
 ceived courteously by Selim and Tur, and was lodged in the 
 royal quarter. But alas for Irij! for it seemed as if his 
 very good qualities were to bring about his destruction, as 
 you shall hear. 
 
 Now it is related of this Prince of the house of Feridoun 
 that, in addition to b.eauty of character, he was also ex- 
 tremely prepossessing personally so much so, in fact, 
 that in every place all eyes were fixed upon him, and 
 wherever he moved he was followed and surrounded by 
 the admiring soldiers, and crowds of people who, filled 
 with wonder at his beauty and kingly presence, murmured 
 among themselves, saying: "Surely this is the Prince 
 worthy to bear the sceptre of Iran!" all of which exas- 
 perated the malignant spirit of the two brothers, bringing 
 down upon Irij his fate. 
 
 For although at first Selim and Tur had intended to kill 
 Irij, his youth and gentleness had in some degree subdued 
 their animosity; now, however, they were glad to have 
 this excuse for removing him from their pathway. So, re- 
 tiring into their tents, all night they fanned their jealousy 
 and hate, counselling how they might do hurt unto Irij; 
 and as the day broke, Selim said unto Tur:
 
 IRIJ, A GENTLE HERO 45 
 
 "O Courageous One, thou must put this usurper to 
 death; then his kingdom will be thine." 
 
 So, when the curtain that hid the sun was lifted, reveal- 
 ing a glorious new day, Selim and Tur went forth unto the 
 tent of their brother. And Irij greeted them joyously, for 
 his heart was full of sunshine. But Tur, frowning darkly, 
 said: " O Perfidious Stripling, 
 
 "Must thou have gold and treasure, 
 And thy heart be wrapped in pleasure, 
 Whilst we, thy elder born, 
 Of our heritage are shorn ? 
 Must the youngest still be nursed, 
 And the elder branches cursed ? 
 And condemned by stern command, 
 To a wild and sterile land?" 
 
 Now when Irij heard these bitter words from Tur, be- 
 hold, he grew not angry, but replied gently unto him: 
 " O my brother, 
 
 "I only seek tranquillity and peace; 
 I look not on the crown of sovereignty, 
 Nor seek a name among the Persian host; 
 And though the throne and diadem are mine, 
 I here renounce them, satisfied to lead 
 A private life. For what hath ever been 
 The end of earthly power and pomp, but darkness? 
 I seek not to contend against my brothers; 
 Why should I grieve their hearts, or give distress 
 To any human creature ? I am young 
 And Heaven forbid that I should prove unkind!" 
 
 But alas! the gentle words of Irij unconsciously rebuked 
 the greedy, self-seeking spirit of his brothers, and so they 
 softened not thfe heart of Tur, which was proud and full of 
 evil. Utterly unable to comprehend a nobility of soul so
 
 46 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 wonderful, he thought that Irij feigned, and so, springing 
 up, furiously he seized the golden chair, but now his seat, 
 and with it struck a violent blow upon the head of his 
 brother, calling aloud, "Bind him! Bind him!" 
 
 Then Irij, thinking of his aged parent, and fearing his 
 hour was come, begged piteously for mercy, saying unto 
 his brother: 
 
 "O Cruel One, think of thy old father, and spare me! 
 and if not of him, then have compassion upon thine own 
 soul, and destroy me not, lest God ask vengeance for my 
 blood. Verily, thou wouldst not crush even the tiny ant 
 that beareth a grain of corn, for she hath life, and sweet 
 life is a boon; therefore spare thy brother. For thy father's 
 sake, grant that I may yet behold the sun. I ask only to 
 live in peace and retirement." 
 
 Alas! strange to say, these words of piteous pleading but 
 angered Tur the more, so that, drawing from his boot a 
 poisoned dagger, he thrust it deep into the breast of gentle 
 Irij. And behold, the Kingly Cedar fell, never again to 
 raise his glorious head in the sunshine of the world. Alas, 
 the pity of it! 
 
 But pity was far from the heart of Tur; for, in his vile- 
 ness, he severed from the trunk the royal young head of his 
 brother, and filling it with musk and amber, sent it unto 
 their aged father with these cruel words: 
 
 "Behold the head of thy darling! Give unto him now 
 the crown and the throne." 
 
 Then, their evil deed accomplished, behold, the broth- 
 ers furled their tents and returned each unto his own land. 
 But the end was not yet. 
 
 All this time the aged Feridoun kept his eyes fastened 
 eagerly upon the road whither Irij had gone, for his heart
 
 IRIJ, A GENTLE HERO 47 
 
 yearned exceedingly to behold his boy again. And, as the 
 time of his return drew near, he caused the walls of his 
 palace to be readorned, and gave orders that musicians, 
 dancing-women, and banquets should be in readiness to 
 give his son a joyous welcome home. Then, when at last 
 the day of his return was come, the aged King sent forth a 
 host to greet him, he himself following close in the wake. 
 
 But when the joyous company had gone a little way, a 
 strange thing happened. For Feridoun, riding at the head 
 of his expectant army, suddenly beheld a mighty cloud of 
 dust upon the sky, which, when it cleared, revealed a soli- 
 tary dromedary looming out of the far horizon, whereupon 
 was seated a rider clad in the garb of woe. And, the 
 mournful figure drawing nearer, the King beheld that he 
 bare in his arms a casket of gold which, upon reaching the 
 retinue, he gave with sorrowful mien into the hands of the 
 aged monarch. 
 
 Now Feridoun, suspecting not to what lengths greed 
 and envy had driven his wicked sons, yet felt a dire pre- 
 sentiment in his heart as he gazed upon the case of gold. 
 Commanding that it be opened, however, when the lid 
 was raised, there was revealed at first naught but rich 
 stuffs of silks; but when the silks were unrolled, lo! the 
 hoary-headed King gazed upon the head of his loved Irij. 
 Alas for Feridoun ! horror-stricken by this grim sight and 
 the cruel words of his sons, the world grew suddenly dark 
 unto his eyes, and he fell from his horse in a swoon. 
 
 Then there rent the air a mighty cry of sorrow such as 
 the world hath seldom heard. For the whole army wailed 
 with grief, in their woe casting dust upon their heads, and 
 tearing their garments in twain. And not only that, but the 
 banners were rent, the drums broken, and the elephants
 
 48 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 and cymbals hung with the colors of mourning, because that 
 the gentle Irij was now but a beautiful memory in the world, 
 and that the house of Feridoun was left unto him desolate. 
 
 As for the stricken monarch, when he recovered his 
 senses, he returned upon foot into the city, and all the 
 nobles accompanied him, trailing their steps in the dust, 
 and followed by the lamenting army. But Feridoun was 
 dumb in his sorrow until they were come unto the garden 
 of Irij, the spot loved best in the world by the noble young 
 King. Here his grief o'ercame him, and, casting black 
 earth upon his head, he tore his white hair, and shed bitter 
 tears, his cries and lamentations being so piercing that 
 they mounted even unto the seventh sphere. Then press- 
 ing the golden casket unto his breast, he spake unto God 
 in his grief, and he said: 
 
 "O Omnipotent One! Thou who art all- just! look 
 down, I beseech thee, upon this innocent whom his broth- 
 ers have so foully slain, and grant unto me vengeance for 
 his blood. His murderers, O God, are my sons, but I, 
 their most unhappy father, beg of Thee to sear their 
 wicked hearts that they may never again know joy or 
 peace in the world. O Lord of the World, I long for the 
 earth to cover me, but let me not go hence until a warrior, 
 mighty to avenge, shall be sprung from the loins of Irij; 
 then will I depart with joy, for I am weary of turmoil and 
 strife." 
 
 Thus cried Feridoun in the bitterness of his soul, and, 
 refusing to quit the garden of Irij, he threw himself upon 
 the grass, and, his white locks wet with dew, he lay night 
 after night under the stars. Yea, the earth was his couch, 
 and he watered the garden with his tears, and lo! he 
 moved not from the spot until the grass had grown above
 
 Then pressing the golden casket unto his breast, he spake unto God in 
 his grief.
 
 IRIJ, A GENTLE HERO 49 
 
 his bosom, and his eyes were stricken with blindness from 
 much weeping. And, moaning continually, in his agony 
 he lamented: 
 
 " O my son! My gentle Irij ! Never prince died a death 
 so pitiful as thine!" 
 
 Now all the land wept and bemoaned the death of Irij, 
 and the sorrow which had come unto the great King, so 
 that for many years Iran was like unto a house of mourn- 
 ing. And the voice of lamentation ceased not in the land 
 until the happy day upon which they placed in the arms of 
 Feridoun a babe, fair and strong, the hero destined to 
 avenge the gentle Irij's death. But of this you must hear 
 in another story.
 
 MINUCHIR THE AVENGER 
 
 THE old Persian chronicles relate that the Princess of 
 Yemen wedded by Irij, son of Feridoim, bare unto 
 him an only child, a daughter fair and sweet as 
 a garden in spring. Now the fame of her beauty travelled 
 far, and kings became her suitors. But her grandsire, 
 giving her the desire of her heart, wedded her unto 
 Pescheng, a hero of Jemshid's race; and, in the course of 
 time, there was born unto them a son who, in form and 
 feature, resembled the lost Irij. 
 
 Now great was the rejoicing on the occasion of his birth, 
 and, when he was yet a tender babe, they carried him unto 
 the aged Feridoun, saying: 
 
 "O Shelter of the Universe, rejoice! for here is thy 
 loved Irij come back unto thee a sweet and smiling babe." 
 Then, 
 
 "The old man's lips, with smiles apart, 
 Bespoke the gladness of his heart. 
 And in his arms he took the boy 
 The harbinger of future joy; 
 Delighted that indulgent Heaven 
 To his fond hopes the pledge had given. 
 It seemed as if, to bless his reign, 
 Irij had come to life again." 
 
 But alas! as Feridoun held the child in his arms, a 
 mighty yearning took possession of him to behold the face 
 of this babe like unto his gentle Irij. Vain, however, was 
 his desire, for as you know, he was blind. Then in his 
 longing he cried aloud unto the Almighty, and he said: 
 50
 
 MINUCHIR THE AVENGER 51 
 
 "O Lord of the World, in Thine infinite goodness, grant 
 unto me the sight of my eyes, that I may behold this image 
 of my son." 
 
 And God was good unto Feridoun; for, even as he 
 prayed, his eyes were opened, and his sight rested upon 
 the babe who, pleased with his grandsire's hoary locks, 
 smiled up at him and cooed in glee; seeing which, Feri- 
 doun gave thanks unto Ormuzd, and called down bless- 
 ings upon the child, naming him Minuchir. For he said, 
 "Lo, a branch worthy of a noble stock hath borne fruit." 
 
 As for the child, he was nourished with the greatest care 
 during his infancy, in the house of Feridoun, who bestowed 
 upon him a mother's tenderness, suffering neither sorrow 
 nor ill to come near unto him. So the years passed over 
 his head, and the stars brought him naught but good. 
 And, as he grew up, his grandfather had him carefully in- 
 structed in every art necessary to form the character, and 
 acquire the accomplishments of a warrior. Brought up in 
 the saddle, he could ride as no other; with his spear could 
 he pierce all shields; with his arrow shoot farther and 
 straighter than any in Feridoun's court; while in wres- 
 tling, he overcame the strongest. And, in addition to his 
 prowess, he possessed all the personal charm which had 
 so endeared Irij to the whole world, so that the army 
 adored him as no other. 
 
 Now when the young Minuchir was come unto years of 
 maturity, Feridoun gave unto him a throne of gold and 
 a mace; he also decorated his brow with the crown of 
 sovereignty, and bestowed upon him the key unto all his 
 treasures. And when this was accomplished, he com- 
 manded his nobles that they should do homage unto him 
 as King. Now at this important ceremony, there were
 
 52 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 gathered about the throne, Karun, the brawny son of 
 Kavah; Serv, King of Yemen; the great Neriman, and 
 many other mighty princes and heroes of renown, more 
 than tongue can name. But the young King outshone 
 them all in strength and beauty and valor; and joy took 
 up her abode once more in Iran. 
 
 And, presently, tidings of the splendor and glory of the 
 new Shah pierced even unto the ears of Selim and Tur, 
 who, hearing of the intrepidity and valor of Minuchir, and 
 of the immense army that had flocked to his standard with 
 the purpose of forwarding his plans for revenge, were 
 filled with inexpressible terror; for they feared an imme- 
 diate invasion of their kingdoms. 
 
 Thus alarmed, these slayers of their brother counselled 
 long together, finally determining to try the efficacy of rich 
 gifts and conciliatory language, hoping thus to regain the 
 good-will of Feridoun, and also to lure Minuchir into their 
 power, for they feared him greatly. 
 
 In pursuance of their plan, therefore, the two brothers 
 loaded a train of elephants and dromedaries with rich 
 treasure: gold, and silver, and jewels, and other articles 
 of priceless value; and a messenger was despatched with 
 them charged with abundant acknowledgment of guilt, 
 and profuse expressions of repentance. 
 
 Now when the messenger arrived at the court of Feri- 
 doun, at once he delivered the magnificent presents, the 
 sight of which caused the old monarch to observe unto 
 Minuchir, who in all his splendid robes of state was 
 seated upon the golden throne at his side: 
 
 "These gifts, O my son, are unto thee a prosperous 
 and hopeful omen; they show that thy enemy is afraid of 
 thee."
 
 MINUCHIR THE AVENGER 53 
 
 Then, all being in readiness, the great Shah commanded 
 that the messenger be given audience, who, when he had 
 performed obeisance, thus stated his mission: 
 
 "O Glorious Shah, whose throne of light illumines the 
 world, live forever! Behold, I bear unto thee a message 
 from thy contrite sons who, bowed low in the dust, vent- 
 ure not so much as to raise their eyes unto thy footstool. 
 Contrite of heart, they pray that thou wilt pardon their 
 evil deed, for it was Iblis who led them astray. Have pity, 
 therefore, O King, upon these unfortunate ones whose 
 eyes are filled with tears and their hearts with repentance. 
 For art thou not, O Beneficent One, the ocean of mercy ? 
 Therefore thy forgiveness will cleanse their hearts and 
 restore them unto themselves. And, as a sign of thy 
 grace, they beseech thee to send unto them Minuchir, thy 
 son, for they yearn to look upon his face and do him hom- 
 age. And this they beg, O Noble Shah, being but the dust 
 of thy feet." 
 
 Alas! As Feridoun listened unto the words of his sons, he 
 knitted his brows in anger, for he knew the guile of their 
 hearts, and trusted them not. Turning, therefore, unto 
 the messenger, he said: 
 
 "O Foolish One, canst 'thou conceal the sun? Go, 
 therefore, and say unto those wicked men, your masters, 
 that their gifts and false-hearted words shall avail them 
 naught, for it is vain white words to speak with tongues of 
 blackness. And now, hear my answer: Go back and ask 
 those fierce unnatural brothers, who talk of their affection 
 for the Prince, where lieth the body of the gentle Irij him 
 they have slain so foully? And now they thirst to gain 
 another victim ! They long to gaze upon the great Minu- 
 chir! Yea, and they shall, surrounded by his soldiers, and
 
 54 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 clad in steel. And they shall feel, also, the edge of his 
 life-destroying sword. Yes, they shall see him, never 
 fear!" 
 
 Now, uttering this indignant speech, behold, Feridoun 
 paused for a moment to show unto the messenger his 
 famous warriors one by one, all men of giant stature and 
 of admirable courage and valor in war. Then he resumed : 
 
 "Long, long hath vengeance slumbered, since it became 
 not Feridoun to stretch forth his hand in battle against his 
 sons. But, thanks unto Ormuzd, at last forth from that 
 noble young cypress, uprooted so cruelly, is there sprung 
 a branch which shall be as poison unto these enemies of 
 his sire. And I say unto you : 
 
 "Hence with your presents, hence, away. 
 
 Can gold or gems turn night to day ? 
 
 Must kingly heads be bought and sold, 
 
 And shall I barter blood for gold? 
 
 Shall gold a father's heart entice, 
 
 Blood to redeem beyond all price? 
 
 Hence, hence with treachery; I have heard 
 
 Their glazing falsehoods, every word; 
 
 But human feelings guide my will, 
 
 And keep my honor sacred still. 
 
 True is the oracle we read: 
 'Those who have sown oppression's seed 
 
 Reap bitter fruit; their souls, perplexed, 
 
 Joy not in this world or the next.' 
 
 The brothers of my murdered boy, 
 
 Who could a father's hope destroy, 
 
 An equal punishment will reap, 
 
 And lasting vengeance o'er them sweep. 
 
 They rooted up my favorite tree, 
 
 But yet a branch remains to me. 
 
 Now the young lion comes apace, 
 
 The glory of his glorious race;
 
 MINUCHIR THE AVENGER 55 
 
 He comes apace to punish guilt, 
 When brother's blood was basely spilt; 
 And blood alone for blood must pay; 
 Hence with your gold, depart, away!" 
 
 Now when the messenger heard these reproaches min- 
 gled with poison, he departed with speed; and when he 
 was come unto Selim and Tur he had many ominous 
 things to report unto them. And first he told of the glori- 
 ous Minuchir who, with frowning brow, was only anxious 
 for battle; of the mighty heroes bearing names that filled 
 the world with wonder, who stood about him thick as 
 flies; of the army so great in numbers and valor that the 
 men of Roum and China could not hope to stand against 
 them; and he told finally how that every heart in Persia 
 was filled with hatred of them because of gentle Irij slain. 
 
 An ominous outlook for the two brothers, truly, and one 
 that filled their hearts with fear. But Tur, who was nat- 
 urally cool-headed and brave, said unto Selim: 
 
 "Henceforth, O my brother, we must forego pleasure, 
 for it behooveth us to be first upon the field of battle, and 
 not to wait until the teeth of the young lion are sharpened. 
 Also, let us take heart, for the young Minuchir hath yet to 
 show his valor, and it followeth not that he will prove a 
 hero bold and victorious because he is descended from the 
 brave!" 
 
 So in this spirit the two brothers rapidly collected from 
 both their kingdoms an army that was past numbering. 
 Helmet was joined unto helmet, and spear unto spear, and 
 treasure, baggage, and elephants and camels without num- 
 ber went with them, so that the earth thundered beneath 
 their tread. Now you would have thought it a host that 
 none could withstand, for it covered the land like unto
 
 56 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 a flock of locusts. So they marched unto Iran, and the 
 two Kings rode at the head, their black hearts filled with 
 hate and rage, for they feared that their sun was declining. 
 
 As for Feridoun, when he learned that the hostile army 
 had crossed the Jihun, he called unto him Minuchir and 
 said: 
 
 "Behold! The forest game surrendereth itself volun- 
 tarily at the foot of the sportsman. This is well! And 
 now wait quietly, for a little skill and patience will draw 
 the lion's head into thy toils." 
 
 So Minuchir waited; but when the enemy had ap- 
 proached within hailing distance, they found the army of 
 the Great Shah drawn up in magnificent battle-array. 
 Now the glorious Minuchir rose above the rest like unto 
 the moon, or the sun when it shineth above the mountains; 
 while at his right rode Karun, the avenger, and his war- 
 riors, carrying ponderous clubs, each like a fierce lion girt 
 with power. At his left, rode Saum the son of Neriman, 
 and his men, whose bright scimetars flashed brilliantly in 
 the eastern sunshine, while front and rear, for miles and 
 miles, there was naught but bristling steel. And over all 
 this mighty host waved the fair flag of Kavah, resplendent 
 with jewels that banner which never yet had recoiled or 
 gone down before the foe! 
 
 Now, seeing this, the two brothers also drew up their 
 legions in imposing array, and when dawn, the fair har- 
 binger of day, had flushed the eastern sky with red, out 
 from the mighty host sprang Tur the Courageous, and, with 
 haughty gesture, thus addressed himself unto the chief- 
 tain, Saum: 
 
 " O Son of Neriman, I pray thee ask this new King, this 
 young Minuchir, since Heaven to Irij gave but a daughter,
 
 MINUCHIR THE AVENGER 57 
 
 who on him bestowed the battle-axe, the shining mail, the 
 sword?" 
 
 Incensed at this insulting speech, Saum replied hotly: 
 
 "O Shedder of a Brother's Blood, thy message shall be 
 given, and I will bring the answer too. Ye know right 
 well what ye have done. Have ye not murdered him who, 
 trusting, sought protection from ye? And verily for this 
 atrocious deed must all mankind your memory curse even 
 until the day of doom. Yea, if savage monsters were to 
 flee your presence, it would not be surprising ! And this is 
 certain, those who die in this most righteous war will go 
 to Heaven with all their sins forgiven." 
 
 Now having thus given vent unto his feelings, Saum 
 went at once unto Minuchir and delivered the message. 
 Smiling, then, the young King spake, and he said: 
 
 "Verily, a boaster must he be, foolish and vain, for, 
 when engaged in battle, vigor of arm and the enduring 
 soul are best proved by deeds, not words. Parley not with 
 him. I ask but for vengeance for gentle Irij slain. For- 
 ward! to battle!" 
 
 And at the signal, verily, never saw you such an on- 
 slaught! For, like a hungry tiger breaking forth from the 
 jungle to seize upon its prey, so did the army of the brave 
 Minuchir fall upon the foe. And fierce indeed was the 
 conflict, lasting until set of sun, multitudes on both sides 
 being slain, until all the spacious plain became a sea of 
 blood. Yea, red, red, became the ground, so red it seemed 
 as if the earth were covered o'er with crimson tulips, their 
 bright heads stilled by the luxuriance of their bloom. But 
 the army of Minuchir was victorious, the flag of Kavah, 
 at evening, still waving defiance to its foes. 
 
 But alas for Selim and Tur! for behold, it is related
 
 58 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 that when the sun had sunk to rest upon this day of 
 bloodshed, craftily they consulted together how they might 
 seize upon Minuchir by fraud, for they saw that his arm 
 was strong, since the day had witnessed many dauntless 
 deeds of bravery performed by him, making them despair 
 of ever conquering such a hero in battle. 
 
 So it came to pass that at dead of night Tur set forth at 
 the head of a small band of picked men to surprise Minuchir 
 in his tent. But the King's spies were not sleeping, and so 
 straightway they carried the news of the evil plan unto his 
 ears, and thus it happened that when courageous Tur 
 burst upon the great Minuchir in his tent, at once he was 
 surrounded, and when he would have fled, behold, the King, 
 dexterously using his javelin, hurled him from his saddle to 
 the ground. Then with his cruel dagger he severed the 
 head of Tur, regarding not his piteous cries for mercy. 
 Now the body he left unto the wild beasts, but the head 
 he sent as a trophy unto Feridoun, pledging neither to 
 rest nor tarry until the death of trusting Irij be fully 
 avenged. 
 
 Now as for Selim, when he heard of the fate of his broth- 
 er, he at once cast about for a new ally; and, at his solici- 
 tations, there came unto him the giant Kaku who was of 
 the seed of Zohak. Then, deeming it prudent, they fell 
 back with the army, taking refuge in an old fort. But 
 Minuchir in hot pursuit soon came up with them, and 
 besieged the castle. 
 
 One morning, however, the great Deev, Kaku, hideously 
 black and ugly, sallied boldly forth from the fort, and run- 
 ning swiftly toward the centre of the besieging army, threw 
 a javelin at Minuchir which, fortunately, fell harmless 
 before it reached him. But retribution was swift and sure,
 
 MINUCHIR THE AVENGER 59 
 
 for the King, rushing quickly upon the Deev, seized him 
 by the girdle, and, raising him high in the air, flung him 
 from his saddle to the ground with such fury that he never 
 moved again. Such was the strength and prowess of the 
 great Minuchir. 
 
 But the young avenger was wise as well as strong and 
 brave, and so, seeing that the siege threatened to last for 
 some time, he now sent a message unto Selim, saying: 
 
 "O Slayer of thy Brother! behold, I, Minuchir, chal- 
 lenge thee to quit the fort, and boldly meet me here, that it 
 may be determined unto whom God giveth the victory." 
 
 Now as Selim could not, without disgrace, refuse this 
 invitation to single combat, he descended from the fort to 
 meet Minuchir, and a desperate combat was the result. 
 But though the fight was long, and Selim no unworthy foe 
 in his desperation, yet, in the end, the superiority of Minu- 
 chir caused him to prevail, and Selim was slain, his head 
 being severed from his body by the redoubtable sword of 
 the King. 
 
 As for the army of Selim, when the soldiers beheld the 
 head of their leader borne upon the lance of Minuchir, they 
 fled swiftly unto the mountains and vanished like cattle 
 whom the snow hath driven from their pasture. And, being 
 thus at a safe distance, they took counsel together and 
 chose from among them a man, prudent and gentle of 
 speech, to go unto Minuchir and speak for them. Return- 
 ing, therefore, the messenger said: 
 
 "O Conqueror of the World, we pray thee that, looking 
 down upon us from thy glorious height, thou wilt have 
 mercy upon us, for neither hate nor vengeance drove us 
 forth against thee, but only this, that we obeyed the will 
 of our masters. We ourselves long only after our homes,
 
 60 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 for we are peaceful men, tillers of the earth and keepers of 
 cattle, and we pray thee, therefore, that we be permitted 
 to return in safety whence we have come. We ac- 
 knowledge thee our Shah, and will ever be faithful and 
 loyal unto thee, for we perceive that not only art thou 
 brave, but noble as well." 
 
 Now when Minuchir heard these words, he said kindly 
 unto the messenger: 
 
 "Let every man lay down his arms and go his way, and 
 may joy wait upon your feet. For Minuchir, like the great 
 Feridoun, desireth naught but the good and happiness of 
 his people, and that peace may dwell once more in the 
 land." 
 
 So the vanquished army passed before Minuchir, each 
 man bearing his armor and weapons of battle, and, call- 
 ing down blessings upon his head, they laid them at his 
 feet. And behold! of weapons there was reared such a 
 mighty tower that Babel would have paled in its sight, and 
 the polished steel, as it rose tier upon tier up into the blue, 
 glittered dazzlingly in the sunshine, a glorious promise 
 of peace. 
 
 And presently Minuchir, having disbanded the van- 
 quished army, set out at the head of his warriors for the city 
 of Feridoun, his vengeance being fully accomplished. And, 
 being apprised of his approach, his grandsire came forth 
 to meet him, and there accompanied him a glorious train. 
 Now there were elephants swathed in gold and jewels, 
 warriors arrayed in rich attire, and a large multitude clad 
 picturesquely in garments of bright hue, while over them 
 waved flags and banners, and about them the trumpets 
 brayed, and the cymbals clashed, and sounds of rejoicing 
 were heard everywhere.
 
 MINUCHIR THE AVENGER 61 
 
 Now beholding his grandsire yet some distance off, 
 Minuchir got down from his horse, and, running to meet 
 him, kissed the ground before him, craving his blessing. 
 So Feridoun blessed Minuchir, and raised him from the 
 dust. Then he bade him again mount his horse, and, amid 
 shouts of rejoicing, they entered the city in triumph. But 
 when they were come unto the royal palace, Feridoun, 
 having seated Minuchir upon the throne of light, and 
 placed with his own hands the crown upon his head, called 
 unto him Saum, the son of Neriman, saying unto him: 
 
 "O mighty Warrior, loyal and brave, to thee specially 
 do I commend this youth to nourish him for full sover- 
 eignty, and to support him royally with thy might and 
 mind, both thee and thy house forever." 
 
 So saying, he placed the hand of Minuchir in that of 
 Saum, and said: 
 
 *Lo! my hour of departure is at hand. Soon shall I 
 cumber the earth no more. God, in his goodness, hath 
 given unto me the desire of my heart, and now I go unto 
 him to render account. May he be merciful unto his ser- 
 vant, granting unto him peace in the life to come." 
 
 Then having thus spoken, Feridoun distributed gifts 
 unto his nobles and servants, then, withdrawing into soli- 
 tude, he bewailed without ceasing the evil fate of his sons, 
 and the sorrow they had caused in the world. But daily 
 he grew weaker, and at last the light of his life went out. 
 Howbeit, the glory of his name liveth even unto this day, 
 for even the children in Persia know and love this glorious 
 Shah of Old. 
 
 But as for Minuchir, he mourned for his noble grandsire 
 with weeping and bitter lamentation, and raised above him 
 a stately tomb. Then when the seven days of mourning
 
 62 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 were ended, lo, he put upon his head the crown of the 
 Kaianides, and girt his loins with the red sash of might 
 and the nation called him Shah, and he was beloved in the 
 land. 
 
 "The army and the people gave him praise, 
 Prayed for his happiness and length of days. 
 
 'Our hearts,' they said, 'are ever bound to thee, 
 Our hearts, inspired by love and loyalty.' "
 
 ZAL OF THE WHITE HAIR 
 
 AMONG all the great heroes who had such vast 
 influence in shaping the destinies of Iran, there is 
 no house so celebrated as that of Saum Swar, the 
 mighty Pehliva, unto whom the aged Feridoun especially 
 committed Minuchir. Seistan, which is to the south of 
 Iran, was the hereditary province of this famous warrior, 
 and here was bred a race of heroes that not only saved 
 Persia again and again from out the hands of her foes, but 
 whose marvellous deeds of valor have filled the world with 
 wonder. 
 
 Now Saum was the son of the great chieftain Neriman, 
 and on account of his intrepid bravery had been made 
 commander-in-chief of the Persian armies. But, though 
 a valiant hero upon the battle-field, he was particularly 
 celebrated because, more than once, he had warred against 
 the allied hosts of Deevs, and come off victorious. He 
 also conquered the furious monster Soham, which was of 
 the color and nature of fire, and, bringing it beneath obe- 
 dient rein, he made it his war-horse in all his later battles 
 with the Deevs. 
 
 So the great Pehliva, girt with might and glory, and 
 smiled upon by the gracious Feridoun, passed his days in 
 happiness, save for the grief that for long years he was 
 childless. After the death of the great Shah, however, it 
 came to pass that at last a son was born unto him, perfect 
 in face and limb, and fair as the sun, but, by some strange 
 63
 
 64 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 misfortune, his hair was silvery white like that of an aged 
 man. Now the poet says of this wonderful baby: 
 
 "His hair was white as a goose's wing, 
 His cheek was like the rose of spring, 
 His form was straight as a cypress tree, 
 But when his sire was brought to see 
 That child with hair so silvery white 
 His heart revolted at the sight." 
 
 Yes, strange as it may seem, such an unfortunate omen 
 is it considered in Persia to have light hair and blue eyes, 
 that in spite of its being well known in the Pehliva's house- 
 hold that he longed passionately for a son to perpetuate 
 his line, yet the infant had gazed upon the light for seven 
 days ere any one found courage to announce unto him the 
 fact of the baby's birth. 
 
 On the eighth day, however, the child's nurse, bold as 
 a lioness, went in unto the Pehliva, and, bowing herself low 
 in the dust, craved of her lord the boon of speech. Per- 
 mission being graciously granted unto her, therefore, the 
 woman thus spake: 
 
 "Unto the sire of a noble house I bring good news. 
 May the days of Saum the hero be happy ! May he live to 
 see the heart of his enemies rent asunder! And now re- 
 joice, O mighty Pehliva, for God hath granted unto thee 
 the desire of thy heart. Behind the curtain of the house 
 of women, thou hast at last a son, a moon-faced boy 
 who, young as he is, yet showeth the heart of a lion. Fresh 
 from the Garden of Paradise, he is beautiful to behold, 
 with nothing amiss except that by some ill-luck his hair 
 is white. Fate would have it so. But in spite of this 
 misfortune, the stars have decreed unto him a great
 
 ZAL OF THE WHITE HAIR 65 
 
 destiny. Be content, therefore, with this gift of God as 
 he hath sent it, nor give place in thine heart unto in 
 gratitude." 
 
 Now, thus speaking, the woman again performed obeis- 
 ance and departed. Then Saum descended from his 
 throne and made haste unto the apartments of the women, 
 where, when the curtain was raised, he beheld a child of 
 extraordinary beauty, but with the head of an aged man, 
 the like of which he had never seen or heard tell of before. 
 Appalled at the sight, and filled with despair at this 
 strange trick of Fate, which he feared boded misfortune 
 unto his house; also dreading the jeers of his enemies who 
 would now accuse him of bearing a demon child, Saum, 
 the great Persian Pehliva, departed from the paths of wis- 
 dom. For, lifting up his eyes unto Heaven, he murmured 
 against the Lord of Destiny, and he said: 
 
 "O God of all the World, eternally just and good! 
 Source of all light and wisdom! incline unto me, and mer- 
 cifully hear my cry. If I have done evil in thy sight, behold 
 my repentance and pardon me, for lo! I am bowed in the 
 dust at thy feet. O merciful Ormuzd, have pity upon me, 
 for truly my soul is overwhelmed that unto me should be 
 born a son who, with his black eyes and his hair as white 
 as a lily, seemeth to be of the race of Satan. Alas! alas! 
 the shame of it is greater than I can bear." 
 
 Thus spake Saum Swar in the turmoil of his soul, and, 
 with heart full of anger, he hastily departed from the 
 house of women, cursing the fate which gave unto him 
 such a child. Not so was it, however, with the gentle 
 young mother who gave unto her baby the name of Zal, 
 and loved him, mother like, doubly on account of his 
 misfortune.
 
 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 But the superstitious people, when they heard of the 
 white-haired child born unto the house of Saum the hero, 
 straightway whispered together, saying: 
 
 "No human being of this earth 
 Could give to such a monster birth; 
 He must be of the Demon race, 
 Though human still in form and face. 
 If not a Demon, he, at least, 
 Appears a parti -colored beast." 
 
 And behold ! the nobles of the court expressed much the 
 same sentiment when they said warningly unto Saum : 
 
 " O Pehliva of the World, truly this is an ominous event 
 which will, we fear, be productive of naught but calamity 
 unto thee and thy house. Would it not be better if thou 
 couldst remove him out of sight?" 
 
 Alas! with a heart overflowing with bitterness, Saum bore 
 the sneers and reproaches which everywhere met him for 
 some time. Then his superstitious fears getting the better 
 of him, he resolved, though with a sorrowful heart, to 
 carry the unfortunate babe unto Mount Alborz where, 
 abandoned, he would fall a victim unto the beasts of prey. 
 
 And the resolve once made, in vain did the loving mother 
 plead to be allowed to keep her babe; in vain she prom- 
 ised to hide him in seclusion so sacred that the sight of him 
 should never again offend his father's eye; all was useless! 
 In spite of tears and pleading, little Zal was taken from her 
 loving arms, and carried away unto the lonely mountain, 
 in the dead of night, and there left to die. 
 
 But though abandoned by his most unhappy father, 
 poor little Zal was not forgotten by God, who knew that he 
 would yet do great things for Persia. Therefore, he pro- 
 vided a safe and happy refuge for the babe.
 
 ZAL OF THE WHITE HAIR 67 
 
 For behold! upon an inaccessible cliff of Mount Alborz, 
 whose head touched the stars, and upon whose crest no 
 mortal foot hath ever stepped, the great Simurgh, the bird 
 of marvel, had builded her nest. Far beyond the reach of 
 man, this wondrous nest, fashioned of ebony and of san- 
 dal-wood, and twined about with aloe, was hidden among 
 the great white cliffs, threaded thickly with veins of golden 
 quartz. Around the base of this nest of marvel, however, 
 there gleamed the stones of fire the amethyst, the topaz, 
 and the ruby, while in the rocks not far away the sunset 
 fires had left their glow in the heart of the opal. So this 
 bird of the golden plumage was happy, for she loved these 
 precious stones because they flashed back unto her the fire of 
 her eye, and warmed her heart with their gleaming beauty. 
 
 Now the Simurgh is a giant bird, so large that she car- 
 rieth elephants in her claws unto her nestlings. Yea and 
 her feathers are of pure gold, being so luxuriant and soft as 
 admirably to fit her for the protecting cares of a mother. 
 Now her home being so near unto the stars, and in her 
 swift flight soaring almost unto heaven's gate, it is not 
 surprising that, by the people, the Simurgh is also called 
 the Bird of God. 
 
 So at least on this fateful night she proved unto the for- 
 saken babe of the house of Saum, who lay upon the hard 
 ground, thorns for his pillow, the cold earth for his nurse. 
 Now the night was dark, for great black clouds which 
 foretold a coming storm had dimmed even the light of the 
 stars. Then 
 
 "A voice not earthly thus addressed 
 The Simurgh in her mountain nest 
 To thee this mortal I resign, 
 Protected by the power divine,
 
 68 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Let him thy fostering kindness share, 
 Nourish him with maternal care; 
 For, from his loins in time will spring 
 The champion of the world, and bring 
 Honor on earth, and make thy name 
 The heir of everlasting fame." 
 
 And not in vain was the message, for the great mother 
 bird listened unto the voice, and, peering over the edge of 
 the cliff, she spied the helpless infant lying bereft of clothes 
 and wherewithal to nourish it, sucking its fingers for very 
 hunger. Now her own young nestlings were gathered safe 
 and warm under her soft feathers, and as she thought of 
 this human parent who could thus leave his tender off- 
 spring upon the cold, bare rocks to die, her heart beat hot 
 with anger. 
 
 Rising quickly from her nest, therefore, the great bird 
 poised for a moment in mid-air, listening to make sure 
 that all was well in her nest, then the strong wings moved 1 
 up and away through the darkness and the storm, and 
 circling round and round in stately flight, she swept nearer 
 and nearer unto the abandoned babe. Down she dropped 
 at last, and the forlorn little one, looking with wondering, 
 tear-wet eyes upon the great mass of soft plumage that 
 seemed to have been borne unto him upon the wings 
 of the storm, smiled and gurgled and cooed with de- 
 light, reaching out his baby arms toward his new-found 
 friend. 
 
 At this the tender mother bird first caressed little Zal with 
 her beak, as if to reassure him, then, wreathing him with 
 a girdle of aloe, in which she fastened her talons securely, 
 up, up, she soared over mountain streams and rocky cliffs, 
 beyond the foot-hills and the higher peaks, until she
 
 ZAL OF THE WHITE HAIR 69 
 
 reached the mountain nest hidden amidst the stones of 
 fire. Here, a sweet, well-known note caused the nestlings 
 to cling more closely together, and, in the newly made 
 space, the forsaken child cuddled, finding a safe and happy 
 retreat. For behold ! his shelter that night from the cruel 
 storm was the soft golden feathers of the Bird of God. 
 
 But the storm and the darkness passed, and in the 
 morning, when the sunlight touched the white cliffs and 
 lighted up the fires in the ruby and the opal, the great bird 
 was aroused from slumber by a strange cry beneath her 
 wings, reminding her of her human nestling, and the new 
 responsibilities which it entailed. Rising, therefore, upon 
 her strong swift wings, she flew forth to find food for the 
 helpless stranger within her walls. 
 
 Now the Simurgh, being a wise bird, knew only too well 
 that elephant's flesh would be quite too tough for her 
 dainty guest, so she secured nice, tender venison for break- 
 fast. And with due regard for courtesy and hospitality, 
 baby Zal was fed with the very choicest morsels before her 
 own loved brood were allowed to break their fast. And 
 though accustomed to balmy milk instead of flesh, the 
 baby laughed in glee as the tender bits were popped into 
 his mouth, now by the mother bird, now by her nestlings, 
 and thought it a fine breakfast oh, ever so much better 
 than sucking his own fat thumbs! 
 
 So, nourished and protected by the Simurgh, Zal flour- 
 ished finely; and the nestlings were no less kind unto the 
 little stranger than their mother, for from her they had 
 learned the lessons of mercy and love. Soon upon tender 
 wing, therefore, they, too, were bringing dainties unto their 
 human playfellow. And so, the moons and the years 
 rolled happily by for white-haired Zal, as he lived in the
 
 70 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Simurgh's home, or played amidst the rough jewels upon 
 the crags around her nest. 
 
 But Zal's greatest treat, as he grew older, was going to 
 school; for thus the wise old bird named the wonderful 
 excursions upon which she took him. Now, of course, 
 geology and mineralogy he could learn at home, from the 
 jewelled rocks about their door; but as for astronomy, 
 when it was the lesson of the day, quickly he would mount 
 into his golden chariot, which was his foster-mother's soft 
 back, and then, away he would be borne gently through 
 the air, up, up, until he almost thought to touch the 
 golden sun, and all the silver stars. 
 
 And, would you believe it ? his language lessons he loved 
 even better, for then would the glorious bird sweep majes- 
 tically down to earth, near to the dwellings of men, and 
 thus did Zal learn quite early to speak the language of the 
 children of Ormuzd, though he thought it not nearly so 
 beautiful as the wonderful notes of his mother. Oh, those 
 were glorious excursions! but best of all, he loved his 
 geography lessons. For then, upon the back of the Bird 
 of Marvel, he sailed over the -whole world, visiting all its 
 places of interest, and storing his mind with knowledge. 
 So, take it all in all, the education of Zal was quite com- 
 plete, and his way of securing it most happy. 
 
 But though Zal was so contented and well cared for in 
 his mountain home, even unto the time when he was 
 grown into a glorious youth, for his own natural mother, 
 in the stately palace of Saum, the years dragged by with 
 muffled feet, bringing no balm unto her wounded heart. 
 And the old warrior, his father, too, suffered, so that even 
 the remembrance of his glorious deeds of valor, writ large 
 in the heart of the Shah and the people, was but as dust in
 
 ZAL OF THE WHITE HAIR 71 
 
 his nostrils. However, no word of repentance crossed his 
 lips; the only sign of remorse was to be seen upon his 
 head, for the raven locks of the great Pehliva had become 
 as the silver poplar in whiteness. Night after night, too, 
 he was haunted by strange and terrible dreams, so that 
 sleep was driven from his pillow, and he knew neither rest 
 nor joy. 
 
 But by and by, as neither good nor evil can remain 
 hidden forever, there came a day when the fame of the 
 glorious youth of Mount Alborz, whose chariot was the 
 Bird of Marvel, whose home its mountain nest, spread 
 through the whole land, even unto the ears of Saum, the 
 son of Neriman. 
 
 Then it came to pass that one night Saum dreamed a 
 dream wherein he beheld a gallant youth of martial bear- 
 ing riding toward him at the head of a troop of horsemen, 
 with a banner flying before him, and a Mubid upon his 
 left hand. And the Mubid said unto Saum: 
 
 "O Unfeeling Mortal, who in thy wickedness cast out 
 thy only son to die, disowning him because his hair was 
 white, though thine own resembleth the silver poplar! 
 How long must thy fair young offspring be left unto the 
 tender mercies of a mountain bird?" 
 
 Now hearing these words, Saum awakened with a great 
 cry, and so terrible was his distress of mind that he hastily 
 summoned his Mubids and questioned them concerning 
 the marvellous youth of Mount Alborz, whether this could 
 indeed be his son, saved in some miraculous way. 
 
 Then the Mubids, seeing that the time was opportune, 
 said unto Saum, the son of Neriman: 
 
 " O father more cruel than the lion, the tiger, and the 
 crocodile for even savage beasts protect their young,
 
 72 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 while thou didst cast out thine own, because a mark was 
 set upon him by the Creator arise and seek thy child, for 
 since he is in the guardianship of God, having a great 
 mission to perform in the world, surely all is well with him. 
 Pray Heaven, therefore, to forgive thy cruelty, and seek 
 thy child in the wild eyrie of the Bird of God." 
 
 Now when Saum heard these words of promise he was 
 truly contrite of heart, and calling about him his army, he 
 hastened quickly unto the mountain. And there, from the 
 foot of the inaccessible rock which seemed to pierce the 
 very skies, the white-haired old warrior beheld his son, a 
 youth of heroic mould, standing near unto the nest of the 
 Simurgh, gazing like a young King out over the world. 
 Now seeing this, the pride and glory of fatherhood awak- 
 ened suddenly in the breast of Saum, and his desire to get 
 near unto his son was very great; but, alas! he strove in 
 vain to mount the cliff. 
 
 Then the great Pehliva, kneeling, called upon God in 
 his humility. And, behold! seeing that his repentance 
 was sincere, the All- Just One put it into the heart of the 
 Simurgh to look down upon the warrior, who with up- 
 lifted, longing arms cried eagerly unto his son. Conse- 
 quently, as the father's cry mounted up unto the wondrous 
 nest amidst the stones of fire, it softened toward him the 
 tender heart of the great mother bird who, casting a 
 proud glance at her own loved offspring circling in the blue 
 above the nest, then looked sorrowfully down upon the 
 white-haired youth upon the cliffs below who shot out into 
 the world unpolished gems from his bow. 
 
 Presently, however, rising from her nest, the Bird of 
 God circled nearer and nearer unto the youth, finally set- 
 tling down beside him upon the cliff. Then, throwing aside
 
 ZAL OF THE WHITE HAIR 73 
 
 his bow and arrow, Zal stroked the golden plumage of 
 his kind foster-mother, questioning her as to the proud 
 warrior and his host who tarried upon the rocks below. 
 Whereupon, first caressing him lovingly with her beak, 
 the Simurgh then said: 
 
 "O thou my Nestling! verily, I have reared and been 
 unto thee as a mother, but now the time is come when I 
 must give thee back unto thy people. Forlo! the warrior 
 who gazeth at us so longingly from afar is thy father, Saum 
 the hero, Pehliva of the World, greatest among the great; 
 and he hath come hither to seek his son. And behold! 
 glory and splendor await thee at his side." 
 
 Now as the youth listened unto these words, his eyes 
 slowly filled with tears and his heart with sorrow, for he 
 loved his mountain home, and longed not for greater 
 splendor than that which was already his in the glorious 
 nest of the Simurgh. Flinging his arms closely, therefore, 
 in mute caress about the soft neck of his foster-mother, for 
 a time Zal was silent; then suddenly raising his head, he 
 burst forth into impassioned speech, and he said : 
 
 "O Wondrous Bird of God, art thou then weary of me? 
 Ah, send me not forth! For truly thy nest is unto me a 
 throne, thy sheltering wings, a mother's arms. In thy 
 golden chariot have I beheld the glories of the world, and 
 now I desire naught but to remain near unto thee forever. 
 Then send me not forth, lest I die with longing for thee and 
 my mountain home." 
 
 Now at this proof of affection, tears filled the eyes of the 
 kind old mother bird. But, once more caressing Zal with 
 her golden feathers, she said unto him gently: 
 
 "O Glorious Youth, verily it is not for want of love I 
 send thee forth! Nay, if I consulted my heart, I would
 
 74 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 keep thee beside me forever. But the stars indicate for 
 thee a great destiny, and so I must let thee go, for thy 
 country as well as thy father shall be royally blessed 
 through thee. Comfort thyself, therefore, and take heart. 
 And who knoweth! It may even be that when thou hast 
 experienced the joys of a real throne, with all its pomp 
 and splendor, the glories of the wondrous nest will be 
 dimmed in thine eyes. But, that thou mayest always re- 
 member with affection thy loving foster-mother who saved 
 and reared thee among her little ones; that thou mayest 
 still feel thyself safe under the shadow of her wings, take 
 and bear with thee into the world this golden feather from 
 her breast, and when thou art involved in difficulty or 
 danger place it upon the fire. I will then come unto thee 
 instantly to secure thy safety. And now, O my Nestling, 
 
 "Having watched thee with fondness by day and by night, 
 And supplied all thy wants with a mother's delight, 
 Oh, forget not thy nurse still be faithful to me, 
 And my heart will be ever devoted to thee." 
 
 And now right sorrowfully the Simurgh bade the youth 
 mount for the last time into his golden chariot; then in 
 graceful circles she swept slowly down unto the wondering 
 father. And behold! having reached the ground, the Bird 
 of Marvel placed the youth in the outstretched arms of his 
 father, saying unto Saum: 
 
 "O contrite Pehliva, receive thy son, and know that 
 never royal youth was more worthy of diadem and throne. 
 Let thy heart rejoice in him, therefore, for great glory shall 
 he bring unto thy house." 
 
 Then Saum, when he beheld his son, with body like unto 
 an elephant's for strength, and glorious in his youthful
 
 Then in graceful circles she swept slowly down unto the wondering 
 father.
 
 ZAL OF THE WHITE HAIR 75 
 
 beauty, bowed low before the Bird of God, covering her 
 with benison. And he said: 
 
 "O Shah of Birds, dwelling so near unto Heaven's gate, 
 truly thou art the Bird of Marvel as well as the Bird of 
 God! Mayest thou be ever safe from thy enemies! mayest 
 thou be great forever!" 
 
 But even as Saum yet spake, the wondrous bird flew 
 upward unto her nest, leaving father and son together. 
 Then the Pehliva humbly acknowledged unto Zal his 
 guilt, entreating forgiveness. And he said: 
 
 "O Silver-crowned Youth, whose glory is a reproach 
 unto thy father, graciously let the waters of forgetfulness 
 cover my sins, and I swear unto thee that never again will 
 I harden my heart against thee, or refuse unto thee aught 
 that is good." 
 
 Then reconciliation having been made, Saum clothed his 
 son in rich robes worthy a king's son, and mounting him 
 upon a superb Arab steed, he conducted him unto the 
 army. Now when the warriors beheld the glorious youth, 
 they shouted for joy, and the army being set in motion, the 
 kettle-drummers, mounted upon mighty elephants, sounded 
 their instruments, the tabors were beaten, the cymbals 
 clashed, and great rejoicing filled the land because that 
 Saum had found his son, and that Zal was a hero among 
 men. And above this rejoicing host, far, far up in the 
 blue, there floated the wondrous Bird of God, who accom- 
 panied the army even unto the gates of Seistan. 
 
 Now thus it was that Zal, the son of Saum, clad in pur- 
 ple, and covered with honors, returned unto the palace 
 from which he had been cast out, a naked and wailing 
 babe. And when clasped in the glad arms of his beautiful 
 mother, who wept tears of joy over her handsome, white-
 
 76 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 haired boy, then, indeed, did he think less longingly of the 
 wondrous nest amid the stones of fire. But again and 
 again was he made to tell of his wonderful experiences in the 
 Simurgh's nest, and the golden feather was prized by all as 
 the greatest treasure of the house of Saum. 
 
 And behold! as the days and the weeks flew by, the 
 wondrous story of Zal pierced even unto the ears of the 
 great Minuchir, who bade his son Nuder go forth unto 
 Seistan with a splendid troop of horsemen, in order to bring 
 the great Pehliva and his newly found son unto the court 
 to receive the royal congratulations. 
 
 So father and son made ready, and when they were 
 arrived at the gates of the Shah, behold, Saum was first 
 conducted into the presence of the great Minuchir. Now 
 the King was seated in all his royal robes upon the throne 
 of light, while upon his right hand sat Karun the Pehliva. 
 Receiving Saum most graciously, therefore, the monarch 
 bade him be seated upon his left hand. Then he ques- 
 tioned him as to the wondrous story of Zal; and Saum re- 
 lated everything unto the Shah, hiding not his own evil 
 deed. Then when all was told, Minuchir commanded that 
 Zal be brought into his presence. 
 
 So the nestling of a mountain bird, clad in robes of 
 splendor, was conducted by the chamberlains into the great 
 audience-room of Kings, and the Shah, amazed at his royal 
 appearance, after welcoming the youth, said unto Saum : 
 
 "O Pehliva of the World! Verily, the heart of the 
 Shah rejoiceth in this young hero born to be a glory unto 
 the land of Iran. Guard him well, therefore, teaching him 
 the arts of war and the pleasures and customs of the ban- 
 quet. For how should one reared in the nest of a mountain 
 bird be familiar with these things?"
 
 ZAL OF THE WHITE HAIR 77 
 
 Then, after talking pleasantly with Zal for some time, 
 the Shah bade his Mubids cast the horoscope of this child 
 of promise. And lo! it was found that the stars would 
 bring naught but good unto the son of Saum; that he 
 would outlive every warrior of the age, and be the defence 
 of Iran for hundreds of years. 
 
 Now these prophecies so delighted Minuchir that he 
 presented Zal with a beautiful Arabian horse and gorgeous 
 armor, and as he left the audience-room slaves poured 
 musk and amber before him. And unto Saum the Shah 
 gave Indian swords in gold scabbards, rubies, a throne 
 adorned with turquoises, a crown and girdle of gold, and 
 finally, a charter that vested him with the sovereignty of 
 Kabul, Zabul, and Ind. Then he bade that the Pehliva's 
 horse be brought, and sent him rejoicing back unto 
 his land. 
 
 But it was not to idleness that Zal returned, after his visit 
 unto the court of the great Minuchir. For, in accordance 
 with the wishes of the Shah, he was now placed under the 
 care of renowned instructors, and daily he increased in 
 wisdom and accomplishments, so that his fame filled the 
 land. However, the Mubids were not his only teachers, for 
 often when tired of the pomp and splendor of his father's 
 court, his heart would fill with longing for his mountain 
 home. Then climbing up unto his airy balcony, presently 
 he would hear a great flapping of wings, and lo! there was 
 his golden chariot, into which he would quickly mount, 
 and then, away, away, wherever his fancy led. Now during 
 these marvellous journeys so great was the sense of free- 
 dom and power which he enjoyed, that he envied not all 
 the kings of earth; nay, not even the great Minuchir upon 
 his throne. And this is not to be wondered at. For truly
 
 78 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 such delight is seldom accorded to mortals. It cometh, we 
 are told, but once in a thousand years, and then only unto 
 the white-haired wonder child of a Simurgh. Happy Zal! 
 
 But not even a wonder child can always remain young 
 and free from responsibility, and so the time came when 
 Zal was called upon to fight the battles of his country, and 
 also to rule in his father's stead, when he was absent fight- 
 ing against the Deevs. In all these things the son of 
 Saum proved himself to be a real hero, being not only 
 valiant and wise, but also beneficent in his power. 
 
 Then a thrilling experience happened unto Zal the son 
 of Saum, for he fell deeply and irrevocably in love with 
 fair Rudabeh, the daughter of the King of Kabul. The 
 poet says of this princess, in describing her beauty: 
 
 " Oh, wouldst thou make her charms appear, 
 Think of the sun so bright and clear, 
 And brighter far, with softer light, 
 The maiden strikes the dazzled sight. 
 Think of her skin, with what compare ? 
 Ivory was never half so fair! 
 Her stature like the Sabin tree. 
 Her eyes, so full of witchery, 
 Glow like narcissus tenderly. 
 Her arching brows their magic fling, 
 Dark as the raven's glossy wing. 
 Soft o'er her blooming cheek is spread 
 The rich pomegranate's vivid red, 
 Her musky ringlets unconfined 
 In clustering meshes roll behind. 
 Possessed of every sportive wile, 
 'Tis heaven, 'tis bliss, to see her smile." 
 
 Now Zal did see Rudabeh smile one moonlight night 
 upon her balcony, and straightway he vowed to win her for
 
 ZAL OF THE WHITE HAIR 79 
 
 his bride, though all the world opposed. And that there 
 would be opposition enough Zal knew quite well, for the 
 King of Kabul was of the hated seed of Zohak and there- 
 fore under a ban. But Zal determined to conquer in spite 
 of this drawback, for not only did he love the princess, but 
 she also loved him, saying stubbornly unto those who 
 would have persuaded her of her folly: 
 
 "My attachment is fixed, my election is made, 
 And when hearts are enchained, 'tis vain to upbraid. 
 Neither Kizar nor Faghfur I wish to behold, 
 Nor the monarch of Persia with jewels and gold. 
 All, all I despise, save the choice of my heart, 
 And from his beloved image I never can part." 
 
 But alas for the lovers! When the mighty Saum heard 
 of the folly of Zal, he was so overwhelmed with anger and 
 dismay that in his great distress of mind he cried out bit- 
 terly: 
 
 "Ah, woe is me, for my son, whom a mountain bird hath 
 reared, is become a prey unto wild desires, and who can 
 foretell the end?" 
 
 But the anger of Saum was mild compared with that of 
 Minuchir. For when he heard the ill news, at once he 
 commanded Saum to go straight to Kabul, there to tarry 
 until he had burned the palace of Mihrab, and utterly 
 destroyed his whole family and all who served him, since 
 he willed that the entire serpent brood of Zohak be wiped 
 from the earth. 
 
 Then to complicate matters still further, Mihrab, when 
 he learned the Shah's decree, straightway determined in 
 his terror to slay the Princess whose folly was causing all 
 the trouble. But Rudabeh faced her father proudly, and 
 as the Queen interceded in her behalf, offering to go alone
 
 80 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 unto the mighty Saum to beg for mercy, the King relented 
 and Rudabeh was saved. 
 
 But while these events were happening in Kabul, Zal 
 was not idle. Going straight to his father, he pleaded most 
 eloquently for his love, reminding Saum that when a help- 
 less babe he had cast him out to die, and that now once 
 more he threatened his happiness. He also recalled unto 
 his father's mind his promise never to refuse his son aught 
 that his heart desired; and so, being thus beset, Saum 
 finally withdrew his opposition. And not only that, but he 
 also gave unto his son a strong letter of pleading to carry 
 unto the Shah. 
 
 So once more Zal set out for the Court, this time to be- 
 siege the great Minuchir. And here he had no easy time, 
 for the Shah, determining to try the young hero, instructed 
 that his Mubids should propound unto him six hard riddles, 
 most difficult of solution, in order to test his wisdom. But 
 Zal answered them every one, and all the Court wondered 
 at his great intelligence. Then the King required that he 
 give proof of his physical prowess, and in the tournament 
 which followed, behold, Zal outstripped every competitor, 
 arousing the greatest enthusiasm by his remarkable exhibi- 
 tions of skill and strength and courage. But it was the 
 Mubids who finally gained the day for Zal, as you shall hear, 
 for, after consulting the stars, they said unto Minuchir: 
 
 "O Shelter of the Universe! Lo, in the Book of Fate it 
 is written that the love of Zal and Rudabeh shall shine as 
 the stars, for from their union shall spring a son, beside 
 whom all the heroes of the world shall pale. Long life, 
 courage, strength, and honor shall be his, and in the hour 
 of peril the great Shahs of Iran will never call upon him 
 in vain."
 
 ZAL OF THE WHITE HAIR 81 
 
 Now hearing this, Minuchir could not reasonably with- 
 hold his consent, so quickly the gallant young lover 
 speeded him back unto Kabul where a most gorgeous wed- 
 ding took place. And after this great event, for days and 
 days, naught was heard but merry sounds of rejoicing 
 through all the land. For the people loved White-haired 
 Zal, and their hearts were glad because of his victory. 
 
 But the happiest time for the lovers was when, the fuss 
 and parade all over, they were allowed to settle down 
 amid the roses and fruits of their vine-wreathed home. 
 Yea, and here, for many, many moons, the young chief- 
 tain and his fair bride lived happy as it is ever given unto 
 mortals to be. 
 
 But alas ! One day there was darkness and gloom in the 
 thicket of roses, where the night-bird trilled his song unto 
 the drooping flowers. There was darkness also upon an 
 inner-room, for the shadow of death hovered over the fair 
 Princess, who lay ill and in terrible peril, the court physi- 
 cians having given up all hope of her life. 
 
 Now for a time, after hearing this dire verdict, Zal sat 
 stupefied with sorrow; but suddenly as he gazed blindly 
 at the dying fire, he thought of the Simurgh's plume. Paus- 
 ing not an instant, therefore, he quickly secured the 
 beauteous golden feather, and laid it softly upon the fire. 
 Then with bated breath he waited, listening! listening! 
 and lo! in a moment there came the rushing sound as of a 
 tempest, the wings of the Simurgh gleamed in the dark- 
 ness, and the great, soft mother bird stood beside her 
 foster-child. 
 
 And, oh! how Zal's eyes lighted up with joy and 
 hope as he threw his arms about her soft golden neck, and 
 leaned upon her gorgeous plumage! Waiting not for
 
 82 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 him to speak, however, the Bird of God said caressingly 
 untoZal: 
 
 "O, thou my Nestling! Wherefore art thou troubled? 
 And why do I see the eyes of the lion wet with tears?" 
 
 Then quickly Zal told unto his foster-mother of the great 
 joy that had come unto him, followed, alas, by the present 
 sorrow, unto all of which the Simurgh listened attentively. 
 And the story told, bidding him be of good cheer, the lov- 
 ing mother bird whispered a few directions in his ear, 
 after which away she flew back to her mountain nest. 
 
 But Zal speeding him to carry out the directions of the 
 Simurgh, soon joy reigned once more in the bower of roses, 
 for Rudabeh was out of danger. Yea; and not only that, 
 for with the Bird of God, tucked safely under her soft wing, 
 had come a priceless gift unto Zal and Rudabeh a splen- 
 did young son to crown their happiness. And now Ruda- 
 beh, too, loved the beautiful Simurgh, with a love almost 
 as great as that of Zal himself, because the golden chariot 
 had brought her babe so safely. And behold! they called 
 the boy Rustem, which meaneth "delivered"; for, said the 
 Mubids, while he liveth will he ever stand between Persia 
 and her foes.
 
 RUSTEM THE WONDER CHILD 
 
 NEVER, I suppose, in the legends of any land is 
 there given account of so wonderful and prodigious 
 a child as Rustem, the son of Zal. 
 
 Now he was as fair as a nosegay of lilies and tulips, we 
 are informed, and when but a day old he was so tall and 
 strong and vigorous that he seemed to have been born 
 a whole year. You will not be surprised to hear, therefore, 
 that at first he required the milk of ten nurses, so great 
 was his hunger; and when he was weaned, his food was 
 bread and meat, and he ate as much as five men. Now by 
 all this you will see that the babe was a true wonder child; 
 but then that was to be expected, since he was brought by 
 the Simurgh from who knows what enchanted region ? 
 
 And never, I am equally sure, was there greater rejoic- 
 ing over the coming of a babe! For, when the tidings sped 
 forth that unto Zal the hero a son was born, behold, the 
 whole land of Iran was given over to feasting and rejoicing 
 even the very poor sharing in the general mirth; for so 
 great was the satisfaction of the great Shah over the coming 
 of this child of promise, foretold by the Mubids, that 
 thousands of dinars were given away in charity through- 
 out the land. 
 
 But who shall describe the joy of the two grandfathers ? 
 particularly that of King Mihrab, who became so puffed 
 up with pride that, like a great gas-inflated balloon, he 
 threatened any minute to fly off into space, or to burst 
 with joy. The father of Zal, however, was away fighting 
 the Deevs of Mazinderan at this time, so his son sent swift 
 83
 
 84 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 messengers to carry unto him the good news, and Zal sent 
 with them a likeness of Rustem worked in silk, represent- 
 ing him upon a horse, armed like a warrior, and bearing in 
 his hands a cow-headed mace. Now when the old cham- 
 pion beheld the image of this lion's whelp, it made him 
 almost delirious with delight. Returning thanks unto 
 Ormuzd for this splendid gift unto his house, therefore, 
 the old warrior then poured mountains of gold before the 
 messengers, and distributed munificent gifts unto all his 
 army. 
 
 As for Rustem, he continued to grow in wonder with his 
 years. At three, it is said, he rode upon horseback; and in 
 his eighth year he was as tall and powerful as any hero of 
 his time. In fact, so great was his physical perfection, that 
 the chronicles and the poet unhesitatingly declare of him: 
 
 "In beauty of form and vigor of limb 
 No mortal was ever seen equal to him." 
 
 But though twice four years had rolled over his head, 
 the eyes of Saum had not yet been gladdened by the sight of 
 his wonderful grandson. Finally, however, the war was 
 over and, at the head of a splendid retinue of warriors, the 
 aged Prince set out for Zaboulistan, the home of Rustem 
 and his noble father, the White-haired Zal. 
 
 And behold! when the old warrior was yet a day's jour- 
 ney from the city, Rustem, with a gorgeous train, went forth 
 to meet him, for he longed to hear his grandsire tell of war 
 and battle, which his soul loved and longed for, and in his 
 eagerness he could not wait. So his father let him go, but 
 not alone, for as the young Prince passed through the city 
 gates, his body-guard, mounted upon coal-black steeds, 
 rode in advance, their golden maces and battle-axes gleam-
 
 RUSTEM THE WONDER CHILD 85 
 
 ing in the sun, while above them waved the red flag of the 
 house of Zal. Then followed the elephants, upon whose 
 backs, seated in gayly decked howdahs, rode the lords and 
 nobles of the land, their waving plumes and bright ensigns 
 making them appear like a troop of gorgeous butterflies. 
 And following these came a multitude of young warriors, 
 the flower of Iran, riding beautiful Arab horses, with swords 
 at their sides, and long spears resting upon their saddle- 
 bows; and there was music, too, for the drums beat, the 
 cymbals clashed, and the trumpets brayed, filling the air 
 with sounds of rejoicing. Thus rode young Rustem forth 
 to greet and do honor unto his illustrious grandsire, Saum 
 the son of Neriman. 
 
 And lo! when Rustem beheld the retinue of Saum yet 
 a long way off, he commanded his own attendants to stand 
 still, while he, dismounting from his great war elephant, 
 went forward on foot. Then when he was come near 
 enough to behold the face of his grandsire, he straightway 
 touched with his eyelashes the ground before his feet, say- 
 ing unto him: 
 
 " O Pehliva of the World! Greatest of the great among 
 the defenders of Iran! Behold, I am Rustem, thy grand- 
 son, and much I have longed to see thee! And now I 
 crave thy blessing that I may return in happiness unto 
 Zal, my silver-crowned father." 
 
 Now, beholding the youth, Saum was struck dumb with 
 wonder, for he saw that not half had been related unto him 
 as to the boy's stature and grace. Filled with delight, the 
 old warrior commanded his elephant to kneel, and having 
 descended, he raised and blessed his grandson. Then, 
 having seated him in the howdah beside him, the two rode 
 side by side into Zabulistan.
 
 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 And how the two enjoyed that journey! Also, how they 
 talked, or rather Rustem did! But first, he gazed and 
 gazed in open delight at the great warrior by his side, con- 
 cealing not his admiration and pride, for though a giant in 
 size, the heart of Rustem was that of a child. Then he 
 said unto the old man: 
 
 "O my grandfather, now I perceive that I am sprung 
 from thee, and I rejoice. For my desires are not after 
 pleasure, neither do I think of play, or rest, or sleep; but 
 ever and always I long to be a hero, fighting fierce bat- 
 tles and performing deeds of valor. But most of all, just 
 now, I crave a horse of my own, and a hard saddle such 
 as the Turanian riders use; a coat of mail, too, and a hel- 
 met like those thy warriors have. Then with my lance, 
 and my arrows in which I delight, I will vanquish the 
 enemies of our house and of Iran, and my courage shall be 
 like unto thine and that of my noble father. Then thy 
 heart will rejoice, O my grandsire, and side by side we 
 will fight the battles of the great Shah and of Iran." 
 
 Now when Saum heard these words he was both 
 amazed and delighted, and he blessed the boy yet again, 
 promising him that as soon as he reached the stature of his 
 father, he should have his heart's desire. And so great 
 was his joy and pride in his grandson that his eyes could 
 not cease from gazing upon the bright, eager face of the 
 youth. And he said unto him: 
 
 "O my young Hero, valiant of heart, for more than a 
 hundred years have I been the chief of the Princes of Iran, 
 and great are the honors that have come unto me, yet 
 never have my eyes been gladdened as in thee. Verily, 
 being now full of years, I fear that my fighting days are 
 almost over, but I rejoice that in Rustem the house of
 
 RUSTEM THE WONDER CHILD 87 
 
 Saum will still live and shine as the sun in glory. And to 
 this end, it behooveth thee to grow up strong and valiant 
 and wise like unto thy father and the other heroes of thy 
 house. Then will the heart of thy grandsire indeed rejoice 
 in thee, and all will be well in the land." 
 
 But alas! The home pleasures of a warrior are of short 
 duration, and so scarcely a moon had run her course 
 before Saum was again called unto the field of battle. 
 During the whole of his stay, however, he insisted upon 
 having Rustem always with him, and when finally he was 
 obliged to go, he said unto Zal: 
 
 "Remember, O my son, that when this child's stature 
 is equal to thine own, he is to have a horse of his own 
 choosing, and all the trappings such as we ourselves wear in 
 battle. Honor this, therefore, as my parting command." 
 
 Now hearing this, Rustem, leaving his grandfather's 
 side, and placing himself near unto White-haired Zal, said, 
 smiling: 
 
 "And see, father! I am only eight, but even now I am 
 almost as tall as thou. Truly, I shall not have long to 
 wait!" 
 
 Then the two warriors smiled, well pleased with the 
 boy; and as they embraced in parting, Zal gravely prom- 
 ised that he would surely remember. 
 
 But time passed, and when yet two summers had rolled 
 over the head of Rustem, behold, one night he was awak- 
 ened from his slumbers by a great noise and cries of dis- 
 tress outside his door. Starting up quickly and listening, 
 therefore, he distinguished the cry: 
 
 "The King's white elephant! The King's white ele- 
 phant! He hath broken his chain, and is crushing and 
 trampling the people to death. Flee! Flee, for thy life!"
 
 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Now Rustem, when he caught the import of the words, 
 sprang quickly from his bed, seized his grandfather's great 
 club, and commanded the guards to let him pass into the 
 court that he might subdue the beast. But the attendants 
 barred the way, saying harshly: 
 
 " Rash boy ! What wouldst thou do ? The night is dark, 
 and the white elephant is loose. It is sure death, there- 
 fore, to venture out. Lend thyself not unto folly, nor yet 
 give place unto rage, for how can we face the fury of thy 
 father, if we allow thee to run into danger?" 
 
 But Rustem did give place unto both rage and disgust 
 at such faint-heartedness. For, realizing that hundreds of 
 lives were in danger and that he must not delay, behold, 
 he struck the attendant who barred his path so terrible a 
 blow that his head rolled off like a ball struck from a 
 bat, seeing which, the others quickly made way for him. 
 Then with his mighty arms and his strong fists he broke 
 down the barriers of the door; and as he stood without, 
 he beheld how all the warriors were sore afraid of the ele- 
 phant, because that he was mad with rage. Then Rustem 
 was ashamed for them in his soul, for he said within him- 
 self: 
 
 "Verily, what counteth the life of one against a 
 hundred?" 
 
 Laying his club upon his shoulder, therefore, he hastened 
 after the elephant; and when he was come near unto the 
 furious beast he ran toward him with a loud cry. Then 
 the elephant, beholding the son of Zal, rushed madly for- 
 ward, roaring like the river Nile, and raising his trunk to 
 strike. But Rustem, regarding the huge beast with a cau- 
 tious and steady eye, fearlessly struck him a blow with 
 such strength and vigor that the iron mace was bent almost
 
 RUSTEM THE WONDER CHILD 89 
 
 double. Now at this the elephant trembled, his legs 
 failed under him, and he fell with a crash so appalling that 
 you had said a mountain had fallen, the noise of it being 
 heard afar. As for Rustem, when he had done this deed, 
 he returned unto his bed and slept sweetly until morning. 
 
 Now the next day, when Zal heard of the prowess of his 
 son, he was delighted. Sending for him therefore, he said 
 unto him: 
 
 " O my glorious son, Ormuzd hath been indeed gracious 
 unto thee. In years thou art but a child, yet there is no one 
 to match thee in courage, strength, and stature. On this 
 account, therefore, thou shouldst accomplish great things 
 in the world; and that thy judgment may also be culti- 
 vated, I wish to send thee forth upon an enterprise which 
 will delight thy heart. And now listen carefully unto that 
 which I shall relate: 
 
 "Many, many years ago, in the reign of the glorious 
 Feridoun, thy distinguished grandfather, the aged Neri- 
 man, was sent by that monarch to take an enchanted fortress 
 situated upon Mount Sipend. This fort, high up upon 
 a steep eminence, was said to contain beautiful lawns of 
 freshest verdure, delightful gardens abounding with fruits 
 and flowers, and fair castles filled with marvellous treasure; 
 for no caravan going that way ever returned. Yet no eye 
 had ever beheld the beauties of the place, and no army, 
 however strong or strategic, had ever scaled the heights, 
 for the fort seemingly was impregnable. 
 
 "Again and again valiant warriors and mighty armies, 
 at the command of the Shah, besieged this place of Deevs, 
 but in vain. And alas! thy grandfather, great champion 
 that he was, fared no better, for after a whole year's siege, 
 with nothing accomplished, he was finally killed by a
 
 90 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 rock thrown upon his head by one of the evil Deevs, and 
 as a consequence, again an unsuccessful army returned 
 unto Feridoun. 
 
 "Then thy grandfather Saum, being deeply afflicted by 
 the fate of his gallant father, himself set out against the 
 fort. But though he wandered for months and years over 
 the desert looking for the fortress, he could not find the 
 way which led unto the place, for never a being was seen 
 to enter or come out of the gates. So finally, other duties 
 obliged him to give up the appalling enterprise, and he was 
 forced to return without having avenged his father's death. 
 
 "And now, my son, it seemeth unto me that, since thou 
 art yet unknown, it may be easy for thee to accomplish our 
 purpose. But thou must go disguised, since the keepers of 
 the fort will not then suspect thee, and thus thou mayest 
 secure entrance unto the fortress. It occurreth unto me, 
 also, that it might be well to disguise thyself as a camel 
 driver, coming in from the desert with a cargo of salt, since 
 it is said that there is nothing in that country valued higher 
 than salt. When they hear that this is thy commodity, the 
 gates of the fortress will surely be opened unto thee. Then 
 destroy the wretches utterly, root and branch, for, behold, 
 they have cumbered the earth too long. 
 
 "Now, that this is a glorious opportunity by which to 
 test thy prowess, O my son, I need not say unto thee. 
 But of this I am sure, if thou shalt prove thyself successful 
 in this endeavor, surely Saum, thy grandsire, will consider 
 that the time is ripe for thee to have thine own horse and 
 armor, together with all the privileges and honors of a 
 young warrior. Then go forth, O my Wonder Child, and 
 may the desert blossom beneath thy feet, and the Blessed 
 Ormuzd wreathe thy brow with victory."
 
 RUSTEM THE WONDER CHILD 91 
 
 So spake the White-haired Zal, and as Rustem listened 
 he became so filled with delight that he scarce felt the earth 
 beneath his feet. For his soul was that of the warrior, and 
 he longed mightily for adventure and combat; yea, they 
 were as honey unto his lips. So the grass grew not under 
 his feet, but right speedily he prepared a great train of 
 camels. And so cunningly was the train disguised that, 
 had you seen it, you would have said : 
 
 "Why, here is a salt merchant starting with his caravan 
 across the desert!" 
 
 But the salt merchant was Rustem, and the camel 
 drivers his brave companions in this adventure. And be- 
 sides salt, the huge packing-cases contained Rustem's 
 great club with which he slew the white elephant, as well as 
 all the arms of his warriors. But so well was all arranged, 
 and so clever the disguises, that the breath of suspicion 
 could not possibly fall upon so innocent-looking a train. 
 
 So right merrily they set forth, and, after marching 
 many days, they at last approached the fortress. And lo! 
 it happened even as Zal had thought, for when the keeper 
 of the gate saw them from a distance, he ran quickly to the 
 governor of the fort, saying: 
 
 "My Lord, a caravan with a great number of camel 
 drivers hath arrived, and, judging by the cases, I should 
 say they have salt to sell. What are thy commands?" 
 
 Then the governor replied unto the gate-keeper: 
 "Why, this is most fortunate! It was but yesterday 
 that my chamberlain reported unto me that the Deevs were 
 famishing for salt. Admit them by all means, for now my 
 people can be satisfied." 
 
 So the gates were thrown open, and Rustem and his 
 whole train entered the fortress. And behold! after cour-
 
 92 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 teous greetings had been exchanged between the governor 
 and Rustem, he was allowed to repair unto the bazaar, 
 taking his camel drivers with him. And here the salt mer- 
 chant drove a brisk trade, for thousands crowded around, 
 eagerly making their purchases, some giving clothes in ex- 
 change, some gold, and some jewels; and not a thought of 
 fear or suspicion was there in the heart of any one of them. 
 Howbeit, when night came on and it was dark, Rustem 
 impatiently drew forth his weapons from their hiding-place, 
 and quickly arming himself and his companions, started 
 to execute his plan of attack. And first, advancing toward 
 the governor's mansion, he raised his furious battle-cry; 
 then, with one blow of his mace, he shattered the great 
 iron door, and fell upon the guards. Now right and left 
 he levelled them, and none could stand before him. In- 
 deed, so fierce and overwhelming was he that you would 
 have sworn that this was no mortal man, but the Great 
 White Deev himself, falling upon his brethren. For in his 
 fury, not only did he slay the mighty Deev who ruled the 
 fortress, but all his chiefs as well, felling some to the earth 
 with his club, striking others down with his sword, so that 
 when morning was come not a Deev was left alive in the 
 fortress. 
 
 And this accomplished, Rustem's next step was to storm 
 the governor's treasure palace. Now this was built of 
 stone, and the gate was of iron, but this did not deter for 
 a moment the mighty son of Zal. With his formidable 
 battle-axe he soon demolished the entrance, and then, 
 pressing eagerly forward, treasure, priceless treasure, 
 everywhere met their gaze. 
 
 But all this was as naught in comparison with what was 
 to come, for in the heart of the palace they finally discov-
 
 RUSTEM THE WONDER CHILD 93 
 
 ered a marvellous temple, constructed with infinite skill 
 and science, beyond the power of mortal man. And well 
 Rustem knew that here the cow-headed mace would be of 
 no avail, for it was plain that this was the work of magic. 
 Undaunted, however, the son of Zal drew forth from his 
 breast, at this crisis, a beautiful golden feather, which, ap- 
 plying to the lock, the door immediately flew open, re- 
 vealing a most gorgeous sight. For lo! there were rubies, 
 and emeralds, and diamonds, and opals, amethysts and 
 onyx, turquoise and pearls, to say nothing of crowns and 
 girdles, sceptres and thrones of pure gold, inlaid with 
 jewels. Also, there were tapestries and rugs, brocades 
 and silks, carvings and armor, together with heaps and 
 heaps of glittering coins. But words cannot describe it, 
 for truly never in the world was there such a gorgeous 
 sight as that treasure palace of the enchanted fortress. 
 
 And now a problem confronted Rustem, for he was puz- 
 zled to know what to do with such enormous and valuable 
 spoils. He therefore sent a messenger unto Zal to an- 
 nounce his victory, and to receive directions as to the 
 treasure. Then Zal, rejoicing, sent unto Rustem two 
 thousand camels to bring away the booty, thinking this 
 number sufficient. But alas! when these were all loaded 
 there was still much treasure remaining, for, you see, it was 
 the wealth of thousands of caravans. Having taken all they 
 could, however, Rustem, following the instructions of his 
 father, then burned the place with fire, so that naught re- 
 mained of it. Then, his work being finished, lo, he depart- 
 ed back unto his father. 
 
 But, strange as it may seem, the chronicles yet record 
 that all this treasure was as nothing unto Rustem in com- 
 parison with the joy in battle, the delight in conquest which
 
 94 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 he now knew for the first time outside his dreams. Again 
 and again on the homeward journey, he lived over the 
 blissful experience, and so engrossed in it did he finally 
 become that the glorification which awaited him upon his 
 arrival home his father's words of praise, his mother's 
 fond embrace all passed over him but half noted, for his 
 mind was busy with other things. After much pondering, 
 however, he finally said unto his father: 
 
 "O my silver-crowned father, one of these days I am 
 going to be a great warrior; of that I feel sure. For in 
 battle my soul knoweth perfect joy. And now, having 
 avenged my illustrious grandsire, surely I may choose my 
 war horse and enter upon my career as a warrior, for truly 
 I am now no longer a child." 
 
 So ended Rustem's youth, with all its exploits which seem 
 so marvellous for a child. But then it must be remembered 
 that he was not an ordinary, but a wonder child which 
 explains it all perfectly.
 
 RUSTEM THE YOUNG WARRIOR 
 
 NOW when the news of Rustem's capture of the en- 
 chanted fortress reached the ears of the aged 
 Saum, at once he sent a swift messenger unto Zal, 
 his son, commanding that, as a reward for his valor, Rustem 
 should now be allowed to choose his own horse and enter 
 upon his career as a warrior. 
 
 Accordingly, without delay, a proclamation was sent 
 out into all the provinces of Persia, commanding that upon 
 the first day of the approaching Festival of Roses all the 
 choicest horses in the land should be brought in unto 
 Zaboulistan that Rustem might choose from among them 
 his steed of battle. Now, to the owner of the lucky horse 
 chosen, the reward was to be mountains of gold, but the 
 warning was also given that should any man hold back 
 a steed of value on the day named, the weight of the Shah's 
 displeasure would certainly fall with blighting force upon 
 his head. 
 
 And, oh, what a horse-fair this proclamation produced! 
 For the fame of it spread away beyond the borders of Per- 
 sia, and as a consequence, for weeks before the day ap- 
 pointed, great herds of horses were brought in daily until, 
 upon the hills and plains without the walls of the city, there 
 was an exhibition, the like of which the world hath not seen. 
 
 For, in addition to the large number of beautiful, home- 
 bred steeds, the hill-slopes to the south of the city were 
 white with the tents of the most famous breeders from 
 Kabul and the Afghan pasture-lands, whose choice collec- 
 95
 
 96 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 tions of animals were truly a joy to behold. Then on the 
 plain, a mile or so from the gate of the city, were tethered 
 a herd of heavy-built, dark-maned horses brought in by a 
 horde of half-wild Tartars, wearing black sheepskin caps 
 and carrying long spears. And near unto them was a cara- 
 van of low-browed men from the shores of the Caspian, 
 who rode their clean-limbed, swiftly-moving animals fresh 
 from the freedom of the steppes, at full speed, standing 
 erect upon their saddles. There were, too, a number of 
 superb Arab coursers, for which more than one princely 
 sum had been offered, but the patriarchal sheik who had 
 travelled with them from the distant valley of the Euphra- 
 tes was looking for still greater opportunities. And besides 
 all these, there were also scores and scores of single horses, 
 each the flower of the flock and the joy of his master's life, 
 brought in not because of the reward, but through fear of 
 punishment. Now, gazing upon this wonderful collection 
 of beautiful horses, you would have said that surely the 
 world had nothing left to be desired in the shape of perfect 
 steeds. But we shall see ! 
 
 For the morning which ushered in the great Festival of 
 Roses dawned at last, and at a very early hour the whole 
 city was astir. Now the beautiful golden throne, from 
 which Zal and Rustem were to inspect the horses, had 
 been placed just outside the western gate, and it was tow 
 ard this Mecca that everybody hastened. Here also the 
 ladies of Zaboulistan were seated in the covered pavilion 
 on the top of the wall, from which, without being seen, they 
 could look down upon the passing show. And though still 
 early, every available point of view was already crowded 
 with a picturesque crowd of onlookers who discussed 
 eagerly the possible choice about to be made by Rustem.
 
 RUSTEM THE YOUNG WARRIOR 97 
 
 And finally, all being now ready, at a given signal the 
 horses, which had already been brought together at a con- 
 venient spot, were led, one by one, through the long pas- 
 sage of armed men, directly before Rustem, the son of 
 Zal. And the first to pass were those of the Zaboulistan 
 herds, strong, beautiful horses, many of them bred and 
 reared with the one thought of their being chosen as the 
 Prince's steed of battle. 
 
 "O Mighty One, behold this beauty!" cried the fore- 
 most keeper enthusiastically unto Rustem. "Truly, never 
 hast thou seen his like. Why, so swift is he that the wind 
 is outstripped and put to shame in a contest with him, and 
 yet he is so gentle that he will eat sugar from thy hand!" 
 
 Smiling at the keeper's enthusiasm, Rustem stepped 
 forward, replying unto him: 
 
 "A beauty he is truly, but Rustem must have strength 
 as well as swiftness in his steed." 
 
 Now, thus speaking, the Prince placed his hand upon the 
 horse to see if it could stand that test. But the animal 
 shuddered beneath his grasp and sank upon its haunches 
 from the strength of the pressure, so that, crestfallen, his 
 master was forced to lead him away. 
 
 And alas! so fared it with horse after horse brought for- 
 ward, with those from the home pastures as well as those 
 from the steppes, the mountain valleys, and the plains of 
 the Oxus. Verily, not one of them could stand the mighty 
 weight of Rustem' s hand. 
 
 Then came the long-bearded, venerable old sheik from 
 the Euphrates, and he led forward the largest of his mag- 
 nificent Arabs. And behold, so splendid was this courser 
 that cries of admiration from all the spectators greeted 
 his appearance, for seldom, even in that land of beautiful
 
 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 horses, had an animal been seen which was in every way 
 so near perfection. Sure of success, therefore, the old 
 sheik, smiling with satisfied pride, said unto Rustem: 
 
 " O Seeker after Perfection, verily I perceive that naught 
 but a blameless steed will satisfy thee! Well, behold! here 
 are beauty, and strength, and swiftness, and intelligence, 
 combined with gentleness and affection. Step up, My 
 Beauty, and greet thy future master!" 
 
 Now, at this, the magnificent creature stepped proudly 
 forward, tossing his head and coquetting as if perfectly 
 conscious of the admiration he was exciting. But alas! so 
 high-spirited and mettlesome was he, that when Rustem 
 quietly subjected him unto the same test that the others had 
 undergone, he quailed and trembled, not so much because 
 he could not bear the weight, as that it fretted his proud 
 spirit to feel the weight of such an iron hand. So he also 
 was led away. 
 
 Then, last of all, the traders from Kabul brought for- 
 ward a herd of ten which they had carefully selected for 
 their great strength, and which were the flower of all those 
 bred in the Afghan pastures. But not one of all the ten 
 could stand the test of Rustem's hand. 
 
 Alas! at this last failure, disappointment filled the heart 
 of Rustem, for he knew not what he should do for a steed 
 of battle. But letting his eye rove over the plain in one 
 last grand muster, behold! he suddenly spied beyond the 
 tents of the Kabul traders a mare and her foal feeding 
 quietly upon the hillside. Now the mare was gray, and 
 though her height was not remarkable, she appeared as 
 strong as a lioness. But it was the colt that held Rustem's 
 eye, and little wonder, for its color was that of rose leaves 
 scattered upon a saffron ground. And not only that, but it
 
 RUSTEM THE YOUNG WARRIOR 99 
 
 also appeared as strong as an elephant, as tall as a camel, 
 and as vigorous as a lion, while its eyes fairly beamed with 
 the fire of intelligence. Also, its tail was long and arched 
 and its hoofs were like unto steel, seeing which, lo, hope 
 blazed up once more in the heart of Rustem. Turning 
 quickly unto the traders therefore, he said: 
 
 "O Sons of Kabul, unto whom belongeth the gray mare 
 that feeds beyond your tents? And whose is the colt that 
 follows after her ? Verily, I see no mark upon its flanks!" 
 
 Then the herdsmen, shaking their heads gravely, replied 
 unto Rustem: 
 
 "Most Gracious Prince, now thou asketh that which 
 we cannot answer. Only this can we say, that all the way 
 from the Afghan valleys they have followed us, and we 
 have been unable either to drive them back or to capture 
 them. We have heard it said, however, that the name of 
 the colt is Rakush, or Lightning, because that he is as 
 light as water and as swift as fire; but we do not know his 
 master. Men say, also, that it is now three years since the 
 colt hath been ready for the saddle, and many nobles have 
 desired to possess him, but in vain! For as soon as the 
 mother seeth a man's lasso, she runneth up like a lioness to 
 defend her young, and will suffer no one to touch him. 
 Now what mystery is hidden under all this we know 
 not, but of a truth it is safest to leave them alone, for so 
 savage is the gray mare, she will tear the heart out of a 
 lion and the skin off a leopard's back in defence of her 
 foal." 
 
 Now no sooner had Rustem heard all this than he 
 snatched a lariat from the hand of the nearest herdsman, 
 ran quickly forward, and threw the noose, without warn- 
 ing, over the head of the startled colt. Then followed
 
 100 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 a furious battle, not so much with the colt as with its fren- 
 zied mother, who ran at Rustem like a wild elephant, and 
 would have seized his head in her teeth. But lo! the son 
 of Zal roared at her with so terrible a voice that the gray 
 mare stood still in astonishment. Quickly then, Rustem, 
 seeing his opportunity, dealt her a mighty blow upon 
 the head with his fist, so that she rolled over and over 
 in the dust. And not in vain was this form of per- 
 suasion, for when she got to her feet the gray mare had 
 no desire to renew the attack, but quickly hid herself in 
 the herd. 
 
 So the mare having retired crestfallen from the field, 
 Rustem tightened the knot of the lasso, and then pressed 
 one of his hands with all his might upon the colt's back. 
 But Rakush did not bend under it; indeed, one would 
 have said that he was unconscious of it. Then Rustem 
 gave a great cry of joy, and caressing the beautiful creature 
 fondly, he cried: 
 
 "O Rakush ! Rakush! verily thou shalt be my throne, 
 and seated upon thee, I shall accomplish great deeds, and 
 now away, My Beauty, away!" 
 
 So speaking, with a great bound the young Prince 
 leaped upon the back of Rakush, and the rose-colored 
 steed bore him over the plains with the speed of the wind. 
 But when thoroughly tired he turned at a word from his 
 master, and came quietly back unto the city gates, where 
 the vast crowd cheered mightily both Rustem and Rakush. 
 
 Then Zal, well pleased that at last the desire of his son 
 was accomplished, said unto the men from Kabul: 
 
 "Good Herdsmen, what wish ye in exchange for this 
 dragon ? Be not afraid to speak, for I see that he pleaseth 
 Rustem mightily."
 
 RUSTEM THE YOUNG WARRIOR 101 
 
 But the herdsmen, turning quickly unto Rustem, re- 
 plied gravely: 
 
 "If thou art Rustem, mount him and retrieve the sor- 
 rows of Iran, for his price is the land of Persia, and, 
 seated upon his back, no enemy can stand before thee." 
 
 Now thus it was that Rustem won his great war-horse, 
 Rakush, and none too soon, for it was not long before Iran 
 had need of a champion, being plunged in war and blood- 
 shed, as you shall hear. 
 
 And first you must know that after having flourished for 
 twice sixty years, the good King Minuchir made ready to 
 pass from the world. Now being informed by the astrol- 
 ogers that his end was near, the Great Shah called before 
 him Nuder, the young Prince, and gave unto him wise 
 counsel. Then when he had so spoken, he closed his 
 eyes and sighed, and was gathered unto the tomb of his 
 fathers. And lo! all the world mourned for the great 
 Shah gone. 
 
 And well might Persia mourn, for Nuder, alas, was not 
 great and noble like unto his father, whose wise counsel 
 he soon forgot. And so it came to pass that presently so 
 great became his injustice and tyranny that finally the 
 nobles of the land came unto Saum the great Pehliva, and 
 prayed that he would wrest from Nuder the crown and 
 place it upon his own head. But Saum, being grieved at 
 these words, replied unto them: 
 
 "Not so, O Men of Might, for it beseemeth me not in 
 my old age to be untrue to the sovereign unto whom I 
 have sworn loyalty I and my house." 
 
 Then the nobles insisted, pointing out that Nuder was 
 unworthy the throne. But the aged Saum who for so long 
 a period had faithfully served his country was not at last
 
 102 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 to prove untrue to his duty. Sternly refusing the prof- 
 fered honor, therefore, he advised the nobles to return unto 
 their allegiance, promising to go himself before the Shah 
 in the interests of the people. 
 
 So Saum the aged girt on his sword, and, taking with him 
 a large retinue, he proceeded unto the Court, where he ex- 
 horted Nuder with prayers and tears to turn from the paths 
 of evil, that he might earn for himself a glorious immortality 
 like unto Feridoun and Minuchir, his glorious predeces- 
 sors. Now so earnest and eloquent was Saum that Nuder 
 listened unto his voice, and joy was abroad once more in 
 the land. 
 
 But alas! The tidings of the death of the mighty Min- 
 uchir, and of the unpopularity and weakness of the new 
 Shah, spread quickly, finally reaching even unto Turan. 
 And there Poshang, who was of the race of Tur, heard the 
 news with gladness, for he decided that now was the time 
 ripe to take vengeance for the blood of his sire. Therefore 
 he called about him his warriors, and his son Afrasiab who 
 was next unto himself in the kingdom, and held counsel 
 over the matter. 
 
 Now it is said of young Afrasiab the Prince that he was 
 as strong as a lion or an elephant, and that his shadow ex- 
 tended for miles; that his tongue was like a bright sword, 
 his heart as bounteous as the ocean, and his hands like the 
 clouds when rain falleth to gladden the thirsty earth. 
 Therefore his father found it not difficult to imbue his 
 chivalrous and youthful spirit with the sentiments he him- 
 self cherished as, calling him into his presence, he said 
 unto him: 
 
 "O my son, generous and brave, even as the great 
 Minuchir in days gone by took vengeance for the blood of
 
 RUSTEM THE YOUNG WARRIOR 103 
 
 his sire, so ought thou now to take vengeance for thine; 
 for I say unto thee that the grandson who refuseth to do 
 this act of justice is unworthy a noble ancestry." 
 
 So, inspired by the thought of avenging old wrongs, and 
 lured on by ambition as well, in the council which fol- 
 lowed, Afrasiab gave his voice for war. But Aghriras, his 
 younger brother, advised peace, for he said : 
 
 "Though Persia can no longer boast the prowess of 
 Minuchir, O my father, still be not precipitate. For be- 
 hold! the great warriors Saum, and Zal, and Karun yet 
 live, and we have only to remember the result of the war 
 in which Selim and Tur were involved to be convinced 
 that it would be better not to begin the contest at all than 
 to bring ruin and desolation upon our own country. Think 
 well, therefore, before undertaking so mighty an enterprise." 
 
 To this prudent counsel, however, Poshang turned a deaf 
 ear, for he coveted the rich provinces of Persia, even as 
 Selim and Tur before him, and he thought the time par- 
 ticularly fit and inviting to carry out his ambitious schemes. 
 So when the verdure of spring covered the plains the 
 Tartar army set forth. 
 
 Now this event could not have happened in a more un- 
 lucky hour for Persia, since the great Pehliva Saum had just 
 been gathered unto the dust; and Zal, his white-haired 
 son, tarried in his house to build him a tomb; while Rus- 
 tem was ill with the small-pox. Nevertheless, the grand- 
 son of Feridoun, when he learned of the coming of the 
 Tartar horde, raised as great an army as he could, and 
 prepared to meet the foes of his land, which covered the 
 ground like ants and locusts. 
 
 And presently it came to pass that the two great armies 
 had approached within two leagues of each other, where-
 
 104 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 upon, a Tartar champion, Barman, by name, rode forth 
 challenging the Persians to single combat; and as it hap- 
 pened, there was no one to answer the call but the aged 
 Kobad, the oldest warrior in the army. Now Karun and 
 Kobad were brothers, being both sons of Kavah, and both 
 leaders in the Persian army. Seeing how unequal would 
 be the conflict, therefore, Karun tried to dissuade his 
 brother from the undertaking, saying unto him: 
 
 " O my brother, go not forth to meet this giant, for should 
 thy hoary locks be stained with blood, thy legions would 
 be overwhelmed with grief and, in despair, decline the com- 
 ing battle!" 
 
 But brave old Kobad resisted all the arguments and en- 
 treaties of Karun, replying unto him: 
 
 "This body, this frail tenement, O my brother, be- 
 longeth unto death. No living man hath ever yet gone up 
 to heaven, for all are doomed to die some by the sword, 
 the dagger, or the spear, and some devoured by roaring 
 beasts of prey; some peacefully upon their beds, and oth- 
 ers snatched suddenly from life, endure the lot ordained 
 by the Creator. And if I perish now, fighting against my 
 country's foe, doth not my brother live, my noble brother, 
 to bury me beneath a warrior's tomb, and bless my mem- 
 ory? And what can a soldier brave ask more?" 
 
 Now, speaking thus, brave Kobad rushed forward to the 
 field, and the two champions met in desperate conflict, 
 the fearful struggle lasting all day long. But at evening, 
 as the combat was about to end for the day, behold, Bar- 
 man threw a stone at his antagonist with such force that 
 Kobad, in receiving the blow, fell lifeless from his horse. 
 
 And then was Karun furious! Bringing forward his 
 whole army, therefore, he at once advanced in fearful
 
 RUSTEM THE YOUNG WARRIOR 105 
 
 charge to avenge right speedily the death of his brother. 
 Then seeing this, Afrasiab himself advanced, and an en- 
 counter ensued which was fierce and terrible. 
 
 "Loud neighed the steeds, and their resounding hoofs, 
 Shook the deep caverns of the earth; the dust 
 Rose up in clouds and hid the azure heavens 
 Bright beamed the swords, and in that carnage wide, 
 Blood flowed like water. Night alone divided 
 The hostile armies." 
 
 But the next morning the battle was renewed, and from 
 dawn to set of sun the terrible conflict raged. Now the 
 carnage was so great that blood flowed like water, and 
 heads fell from their trunks like unto autumn leaves, 
 kissed by the soft south winds; and the clamor and confu- 
 sion were so mighty that earth and sky seemed blended in 
 one. 
 
 However, of all the events of that dreadful day none was 
 more terrible than when King Nuder himself charged 
 from out his army to meet the valiant Afrasiab. Now not 
 only did the two combatants hurl javelins at each other, 
 and fight until their swords were hacked like unto saws, 
 and their spears were shivered, but they even closed with 
 each other like two serpents, so deadly was the struggle. 
 But finally, as night was coming on, Afrasiab began to pre- 
 vail, and the King had hard work to escape with his life. 
 
 So when the javelins cast long shadows upon the plain 
 at even-tide, the Tartar host had won the day, and many 
 a famous Persian chief lay dead upon the battle-field. 
 Howbeit, King Nuder and Karun escaped, securing them- 
 selves by falling back unto the White Fort. 
 
 But, that same night, Afrasiab despatched one of his 
 noted chiefs with a body of horsemen unto Iran for the
 
 106 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 purpose of intercepting and capturing the shubistan of 
 Nuder; and Karun, hearing of this important move, was 
 all on fire to pursue the enemy and frustrate their object, 
 wishing not to see the helpless women and children of the 
 King's household in the hands of the enemy. So, sup- 
 ported by a strong volunteer force, he set off at midnight, 
 and as fate would have it, it happened that at dawn he fell 
 in with a detachment of the enemy under Barman, who 
 was also pushing forward into Persia. 
 
 So, considering this unusually fortunate, straightway 
 Karun, in revenge for his brother Kobad, sought out the 
 champion and dared him to single combat. And so great 
 was his fury that, throwing his javelin with the might of a 
 Deev, he hurled Barman violently from his horse, so that 
 he lay upon the ground stunned. Then Karun, quickly dis- 
 mounting, severed the head of the giant, and hung it at his 
 saddle-bow. And this being accomplished, he attacked 
 and defeated the whole Tartar company, being in full 
 possession of the field when joined by King Nuder. 
 
 But now Afrasiab came up, and so again was the battle 
 renewed. Now from morning until evening the conflict 
 raged so fiercely that the ground could not be seen for the 
 dead, and in the end the Persians suffered a great defeat. 
 But, most unfortunate of all, King Nuder again fell into 
 the hands of the Tartar chief, and long they fought, but 
 finally Afrasiab succeeded in grasping his royal opponent 
 by the girdle and, furious, dragged him from his foaming 
 horse, and carried him off a prisoner. 
 
 But worse was to come, for when Afrasiab learned of 
 Karun's valorous deed, and that as a consequence, not 
 only Barman, but many of the bravest of his warriors were 
 slain, in a fit of rage, he slew his royal prisoner, and also
 
 RUSTEM THE YOUNG WARRIOR 107 
 
 many of the thousand brave warriors who fell into his 
 hands with Nuder; and Persia was without a King. 
 
 And presently it came to pass that Afrasiab himself sat 
 down upon the throne of light, proclaiming himself lord of 
 Iran. And not only this, but he required all the people to 
 do homage unto him, and to pour gifts before his face. 
 But the people would not listen unto his voice, and in their 
 distress they sent messengers unto Seistan, asking counsel 
 of the great Pehliva. Then Zal, hearing of the sad plight of 
 Iran, cast aside his sorrow for Saum, his father, and replied 
 thus unto the messengers: 
 
 "O Men of Iran, verily all my days have I feared no 
 enemy save only old age, and now it is come upon me; for 
 my back is bowed, and I can no longer wield the sword as 
 in former years, but, thanks unto Ormuzd, the old stump 
 hath put forth a noble shoot, and, therefore, my son Rus- 
 tem will do all that can be done to succor Iran from her 
 foes, for he is strong and courageous, and is now ready and 
 longing for battle. Wherefore, be of good cheer!" 
 
 Then Zal, dismissing the messengers, called before him 
 his son and said unto him: 
 
 " O Hero of the House of Saum, verily thou art strong as 
 an elephant, and thy courage is as that of the lion who de- 
 fendeth her young. Nevertheless, O my son, thy lips still 
 smell of milk, and thy heart should be going out after 
 pleasure instead of battle, for thou art yet but a youth. 
 But alas! the times are perilous, and Iran looketh unto 
 thee for succor; so the time is come when I must send thee 
 forth to cope with heroes, both thou and Rakush thy steed ! 
 And, armed with thy grandsire's famous club for thy mace, 
 I mistake me if thou spreadest not consternation among 
 the Tartar host. What sayeth the proud son of Zal?"
 
 108 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Now at this Rustem smiled. Then drawing near unto 
 his father he said: 
 
 "O my noble father, with my grandsire's mighty club 
 I slew the King's white elephant. Hast thou forgotten 
 that? And also how I took the enchanted fortress? 
 Verily, I know that I am young, but it would be a disgrace 
 if I were to be afraid of Afrasiab and his warriors, and 
 verily, I am not afraid. For, seated upon Rakush, and 
 armed with my grandsire's mace and helmet, my heart 
 telleth me that I shall not disgrace the house of Saum the 
 Hero. Give me thy blessing, therefore, and send me forth. 
 Then shall Persia be delivered from her foes." 
 
 Now Zal's heart laughed within him for very gladness 
 when he heard these words of manhood from his son, and 
 immediately preparations were made to take the field, 
 a large army being raised and equipped by Rustem. 
 
 But, though Afrasiab heard of the preparations being 
 made by Zal and Rustem to come out against him, the 
 news disturbed him not at all, for he said : 
 
 " Verily, why should we fear ? The son is but a boy, and 
 the father is old; therefore, it will be simply play to van- 
 quish these heroes, so let us feast and be merry!" 
 
 So they feasted, hearing not as they made merry over 
 their wine the steady tramp, tramp of the approaching 
 army, which daily drew nearer, and of whose might they 
 dreamed not. 
 
 Now it was the time of roses, when Zal led forth his host 
 against the offspring of Tur, and the meadows smiled with 
 verdure, filling all the air with fragrance. At the head of 
 the mighty multitude marched Rustem, the flag of Kavah 
 floating o'er him gloriously. But White-haired Zal was not 
 at his side, for he marched in the midst of the men, while
 
 RUSTEM THE YOUNG WARRIOR 109 
 
 Mihrab and Gustahem led the two wings. Also there fol- 
 lowed after Rustem a number like the sands of the sea, 
 and the sounds of cymbals and drums made a noise like 
 unto the great day of judgment. So marched they until 
 they came near unto the Tartar camp. Then, assembling 
 his veteran chiefs, Zal said unto them: 
 
 "O my Brave Warriors, valiant in fight! Behold, we 
 have here a great army; we have also daring chiefs and 
 wise counsellors; but we suffer a great disadvantage be- 
 cause that we have no King. But rejoice and be not dis- 
 mayed, for a Mubid hath revealed unto me that at Mount 
 Alborz there yet liveth one of the royal race of Feridoun, 
 unto whom belongeth the throne; and that he is a youth 
 wise and brave, and a lover of justice and truth." 
 
 Having thus spoken unto the chiefs, behold, Zal next 
 addressed himself unto Rustem, and he said: 
 
 "My son, I pray thee depart at once for Mount Alborz, 
 neither tarry by the way. And when thou art come unto 
 the mountain, do homage unto Prince Kaikobad, and 
 say unto him that lo! the army is asking for its King. 
 We shall expect thy return with the Prince within four- 
 teen days." 
 
 So, with great joy, Rustem leaped upon the back of 
 Rakush, and rode off at full speed. Now he had gone but 
 a short distance when a number of Tartars who had posted 
 themselves upon the road, seeing the young hero galloping 
 toward them, attacked him. But Rustem, club in hand, 
 fell upon them with fury, striking many to the ground, and 
 driving the rest before him, so that they returned unto 
 Afrasiab full of terror. 
 
 Meanwhile, Rustem, tarrying not, rode on until he was 
 come unto Mount Alborz, unto a spot where he beheld a
 
 110 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 splendid palace standing in a beautiful garden whence 
 came the sounds of running waters. Trees of tall 
 stature uprose therein, and under their spreading shade, 
 beside a gurgling fountain, there was placed a throne upon 
 which sat a youth of singular beauty. And circled round 
 about him were nobles, girt with red sashes of might, and 
 they paid homage unto the youth. 
 
 Now beguiled by the charm of the place, which was 
 really a paradise as to perfume and beauty, Rustem drew 
 rein for a moment, and when those within the garden be- 
 held it, they came out unto him, saying courteously: 
 
 " O noble youth, thou appearest to have ridden fast and 
 far! Descend from off thy horse, therefore, and drink a cup 
 of wine with us, for we would greet thee as our guest." 
 
 But Rustem, thanking them, refused the courtesy, say- 
 ing unto them in explanation: 
 
 "Unfortunately, O gracious Pehliva, my errand is one 
 that demandeth haste. For lo! the borders of Iran are 
 encircled by the enemy, and in every house there is mourn- 
 ing because that the throne is empty of a King. Where- 
 fore, I may not stay to taste of wine." 
 
 Hearing this, the nobles no longer sought to detain 
 Rustem, but said graciously unto him: 
 
 "Verily, if thou art on thy way unto Mount Alborz, 
 brave youth, tell unto us thy mission, for we are of those 
 who guard its sides." 
 
 Then Rustem, satisfied as to their integrity, replied unto 
 his questioners: 
 
 " Behold! I seek upon Mount Alborz a King of the pure 
 royal race, a youth who reareth high his head. His name 
 is Kaikobad, and if ye know aught of him, I pray that ye 
 give me tidings as to where I may find him."
 
 RUSTEM THE YOUNG WARRIOR 111 
 
 Now at this the youth upon the throne arose, and said 
 unto Rustem: 
 
 "Sayest thou, O Pehliva, that thou seekest Prince 
 Kaikobad ? Verily, he is well known unto me, and if thou 
 wilt graciously enter this garden, and rejoice my soul with 
 thy presence, surely I will give thee tidings concerning 
 him." 
 
 So Rustem, at this promise, quickly dismounted from 
 off the back of Rakush, and hastened to where the nobles 
 were congregated by the fountain. Then the youth who had 
 called unto him took his hand and led him unto the steps 
 of the throne, and, pouring out wine, he drank to his guest, 
 giving also unto Rustem. Then this ceremony being 
 ended, he said: 
 
 "O Valiant One! Why seekest thou Kaikobad? At 
 whose desire art thou thus sent forth?" 
 
 Then Rustem replied: 
 
 " O Prince, I bring unto Kaikobad good tidings, for the 
 nobles of Iran have chosen him to be their King. And lo! 
 my aged father, Zal, hath sent me with all speed to pray 
 the young King to hasten unto his own, that he may lead 
 the host against the enemies of Iran." 
 
 Now the youth listened attentively unto Rustem; then, 
 smiling, he said : 
 
 " O Son of the White-haired Zal! Rejoice, for thy quest 
 is ended, since thou beholdest in me Kaikobad of the race 
 of Feridoun." 
 
 Then Rustem, bowing his head, kissed the ground before 
 the Prince, saluting him as Shah. And Kaikobad, calling 
 for a cup of wine, touched it with his lips in Rustem's honor. 
 Then Rustem also drank, crying loyally: 
 
 "May the Shah live forever! May he bring destruction
 
 112 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 unto the enemies of Iran, and reign gloriously for a thou- 
 sand years!" 
 
 And now music rent the air, and shouts of joy from the 
 nobles, because that the King was come into his own. 
 But when silence was once more restored, the young Shah 
 opened his mouth and said: 
 
 "O Nobles of Iran, hearken unto my dream, which is 
 now come true, and you will know why I called upon you 
 this day to stand in majesty about my throne. Behold, 
 last night in my sleep, suddenly from out the blue I beheld 
 two falcons, white of wing, flying toward me by way of 
 Iran; and in their beaks they bore a sunny crown which 
 they placed upon my head. Andlo! here is Rustem, come 
 out unto me this day like a white bird; and his father, the 
 nursling of a bird, hath sent him, while the sunny diadem 
 is the crown of Iran." 
 
 Now all marvelled at the dream, and Rustem said: 
 
 " Surely, O King, thou art chosen of Ormuzd, and bless- 
 ings will be showered upon Iran while thou art seated 
 upon the throne of light ! But since there is now need for 
 haste, I pray thee let us tarry no longer, for the enemy is 
 at the door." 
 
 So Kaikobad swung himself upon his steed of war, and 
 in yet the same hour they set out with their followers, tow- 
 ard Iran. And they rode day and night without stopping 
 until, having left the glorious hills far behind them, they 
 were come unto the green plains, already clad in all their 
 spring beauty. Whereupon, being come unto the outposts 
 of the enemy, Kaloun, the great Tartar champion, came 
 out to attack them, and when the King saw him and his 
 ugly-looking followers, he was for giving battle. But Rus- 
 tem said:
 
 RUSTEM THE YOUNG WARRIOR 113 
 
 "O Lord of Iran, truly it becometh not thy greatness to 
 honor such a foe. And, moreover, my horse and my club, 
 with God on my side, will be enough, I think, to settle this 
 handful of the enemy." 
 
 Now so speaking, and waiting not for reply, Rustem 
 gave Rakush the rein, and made a dash for the Tartars; and 
 fearful was the onslaught! For coming up with the ene- 
 my, the hero, catching one trooper from his horse, struck 
 another with the man as if he were a club, dashing out his 
 brains. Then one by one he tore the riders from their sad- 
 dles, dashing them to the ground with such force as to 
 break their skulls, and necks, and backs. And finally it 
 came the turn of the great champion also to feel the wrath 
 of Rustem. Reaching out his hand, therefore, quickly he 
 caught hold of Kaloun's spear, tore it from him, and with 
 it struck him from his saddle. Then as he lay upon the 
 ground, Rakush trampled upon him until he was naught 
 but a mass of clay. Now when the remaining Tartars saw 
 their chief treated in this fashion, they thought that a demon 
 had broken his chain, and was riding about with a club 
 and a lasso fastened unto his saddle; so being filled with 
 terror, they turned their backs and fled. 
 
 Then, having given the enemy somewhat to report unto 
 Afrasiab, Rustem rode back unto the King, and they con- 
 tinued their journey. And that night, in the darkness, 
 Rustem led the "Hope of Iran" safely through the enemy's 
 line within the tents of Zal. And after this, seven days they 
 feasted and counselled together, but on the eighth day the 
 crown of Iran was placed upon the head of Kaikobad, who 
 mustered the army and led it forth against the Tartar host. 
 
 And then, what a conflict ! Fierce and terrible it raged for 
 days, and many were the deeds of valor performed by both
 
 114 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Iranian and Turk. But the men of Turan prevailed not, 
 though Afrasiab made one terrible onslaught in which so 
 great was the clamor and confusion that it seemed as if 
 heaven and earth had closed in deadly conflict, the result 
 of which would be victory for the enemy. Now the spec- 
 tacle was magnificent, awe-inspiring, and terrible. For, 
 what with the clattering of hoofs, the shrill roar of the 
 trumpets, the rattle of the brazen drums, and the vivid 
 glitter of spear and shield, there was produced a scene of 
 indescribable tumult and splendor, while the neighing of 
 the steeds of battle, the cries of dying men, and the blood 
 which flowed like water, testified to the deadly work being 
 done by the Tartar King, who beheld the crown of Iran 
 just within his grasp. 
 
 But the bravery of Afrasiab upon that dreadful day was 
 as nothing beside that of Rustem. Seemingly everywhere 
 on the field at the same time, so terrible was the destruction 
 which he caused that, verily, you would have said he was 
 war incarnate. Now his power was that of a hungry lion 
 which causeth all men to flee; neither could his strength be 
 broken, for his shadow extended for miles, and, unaided, 
 he performed deeds of prowess of which no hero e'er 
 dreamed, so that from this time forth men named him 
 Tehemten, which meaneth "the strong-limbed." But 
 behold ! when the conflict had lasted for some time, as the 
 battle ebbed for a moment, Rustem said unto Zal: 
 
 " O my father, where think you hideth Afrasiab ? What 
 dress doth he wear, and what is his standard? for verily 
 I see him not! Why doth he not stand forth that I may 
 meet him in single combat?" 
 
 Then Zal, laying a detaining hand, upon his son, said 
 gravely:
 
 RUSTEM THE YOUNG WARRIOR 115 
 
 "Listen, O my son, and stick not thy hand in the lion's 
 jaws! For truly this young Tartar, Afrasiab, rageth in the 
 conflict with the fury of the lion and the crocodile; yea, he 
 fighteth in the saddle like a sharp-fanged dragon; and in 
 his wrath, as he wieldeth his bright scimitar around him, 
 he staineth the earth with blood. Beware of him, there- 
 fore, for black is his banner, black his coat of mail and the 
 plume upon his helmet, and behold, woe followeth ever in 
 his train." 
 
 Now, hearing this, Rustem quickly loosened his father's 
 detaining hand, saying unto him earnestly: 
 
 "Yea, and black is his heart also, O my father, for he 
 murdered his gentle brother. Dragon or Demon, there- 
 fore, I fear him not, for Heaven is not his friend. Let him 
 come forth, therefore, and soon we shall see unto whom 
 Ormuzd giveth the victory." 
 
 Then away galloped Rustem, and as he rode he shouted 
 his terrible battle-cry which caused the enemy to flee 
 before him like fire before the wind. Now noting the 
 havoc caused by the youth, Afrasiab, astonished, said unto 
 his chiefs: 
 
 "O Men of Turan, what dragon is this who scoureth 
 the plain, causing my warriors to flee before him? Verily, 
 his claws need trimming!" 
 
 Whereupon, the nobles, surrounding Afrasiab, said 
 eagerly: 
 
 "What! Hast thou not then heard? Yonder roaring 
 lion is Rustem, the mighty son of Zal, and verily, his power 
 is that of a thousand Deevs! Seest thou not the club that 
 he wieldeth with such deadly force ? Lo, it is that of Deev- 
 fighting Saum, his grandsire, and the youth seeketh re- 
 nown, even as that illustrious Pehliva. And much we fear,
 
 116 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 O Afrasiab, that if his power be not speedily broken he will 
 carry all before him." 
 
 Now, having heard this report, Afrasiab galloped straight 
 unto the front of his army where, being seen by Rustem, 
 he was at once challenged to single combat. With a fierce 
 cry of joy, then, the warriors closed, and long and fearful 
 was the struggle. At last, however, Rustem deftly caught 
 Afrasiab by the girdle, and dragged him from his saddle, 
 intending to carry him thus captive unto Kaikobad as a 
 trophy of his first day's fighting. But, what with the 
 weight of the King, and Rustem' s mighty arm, the leather 
 of the girdle broke, and Afrasiab fell headlong to the 
 ground, whereupon he was immediately surrounded and 
 rescued by his warriors, but not before Rustem had 
 snatched off his crown, which together with the broken 
 girdle he bore off in triumph. 
 
 Meanwhile, Afrasiab, having been mounted by his 
 chiefs upon a swift horse, succeeded in making his escape, 
 owing to the great confusion, and his army was left to shift 
 for itself. As a consequence, in the general engagement 
 which now took place, it fared ill indeed with the enemy, 
 for the Persians, fired by the example of Rustem, performed 
 prodigies of valor, many a brave hero on this field fighting 
 his last fight for Iran. 
 
 But, among them all, no one could compare with Rus- 
 tem. On that tremendous day, with sword and dagger, 
 battle-axe and noose, he cut, and tore, and broke, and 
 bound the brave, slaying and making captive with his own 
 hand as many as a whole army. It is even said that at one 
 fell swoop more than a thousand fell before his life-destroy- 
 ing sword, and that, witnessing this feat of supernatural 
 power, the Tartar hordes fled in dismay, their black ban-
 
 RUSTEM THE YOUNG WARRIOR 117 
 
 ners trailing in the dust, and with no sound of trumpet or 
 drum to indicate the course of their flight. 
 
 So, in this sad plight, the conquered Tartar legions pur- 
 sued their noiseless retreat unto their own land. But the 
 Persians, when they beheld the enemy vanish as the mist, 
 fell slowly back unto the capital, where the victory was 
 celebrated with great pomp and splendor, Kaikobad re- 
 warding the valor of Rustem by appointing him captain- 
 general of the armies under the title of the "Champion of 
 the World," and also giving unto him a golden crown, car- 
 rying with it the privilege of giving audience while seated 
 upon a golden throne. 
 
 But alas for Afrasiab! With a heavy heart he returned 
 unto his father, in bitter humiliation communicating unto 
 him the misfortunes which had overtaken him. And he 
 said: 
 
 " O my father, verily we acted not wisely in provoking 
 this war. For lo! there hath arisen in Iran, from the race 
 of Saum the Pehliva, a youth who cannot be matched any- 
 where, either in strength or valor or prowess for hath he 
 not utterly subdued thy legions ? Yet now he is but a mere 
 weanling! I ask you, therefore, to consider what is likely 
 to come to pass when he reacheth his full vigor? 
 
 "Now well thou knowest, O my father, that thy son is 
 no weakling, but a hero desiring to possess the world, and 
 of established valor; yea, the stay of thy army, and thy 
 refuge in danger, yet before this young dragon of war his 
 power is as nothing, as thou shalt hear. 
 
 "For behold! when in the midst of battle he beheld my 
 standard, like a crocodile he sprang to the fight. Verily, 
 thou wouldst have said that his breath scorched up the 
 plain, so fiery was he! Then long we fought, but suddenly
 
 118 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 seizing me by the girdle, he caught me from my saddle with 
 such mighty force that hadst thou seen him thou wouldst 
 have said he held no more than a fly in his grasp. Then 
 broke my golden girdle, and down I fell ingloriously upon 
 the dusty ground; and this was well, for quickly then was 
 I rescued by my body-guard and spirited away. But 
 knowing well my prowess, O my father, and how my 
 nerves are strung, thou canst conceive the wondrous 
 strength, the marvellous power which sunk me thus to 
 nothing. 
 
 "And now I say unto thee, haste to make peace with 
 Iran, else Turan is lost, for verily the hero liveth not who 
 can stand against this mighty man of valor." 
 
 Poshang listened unto this bitter tale with sorrow and 
 dismay, astonished, too, to hear the fierce and valiant 
 Afrasiab speak so hopelessly of the undertaking. Well he 
 knew, therefore, that he must sue for peace, and tears of 
 exceeding bitterness fell from his eyes, as, calling unto him 
 a scribe, he dictated unto Kaikobad the Shah a letter, in 
 which he said unto the great King: 
 
 "O Glorious Shelter of the Universe, in the name of 
 Ormuzd, the great ruler of sun and moon and earth, greet- 
 ing from the meanest of thy subjects, who sayeth unto thee : 
 Wherefore should we seek the land of our neighbor, since 
 in the end each will receive in heritage a spot no larger 
 than his body? Let the Jihun, therefore, be the future 
 boundary between Turan and Iran, ancUo! not one of my 
 people shall pass over its waters; nay, not even in their 
 dreams! Then shall the two nations live at peace, and all 
 will be well in the lands." 
 
 Now Kaikobad smiled at this wily letter; nevertheless, 
 he replied unto Poshang, saying:
 
 RUSTEM THE YOUNG WARRIOR, 119 
 
 "O Tartar King, well thou knowest that Persia sought 
 not this war, but Afrasiab, who thought to subdue a mas- 
 terless land, to satisfy his own ambitions, thus following in 
 the footsteps of Tur, his grandsire. For, even as he rob- 
 bed Iran of gentle Irij, so Afrasiab hath taken from it 
 Nuder the Shah; and from thee, O King, thy noble young 
 son whom he so cruelly stabbed! Nevertheless, since 
 Kaikobad loveth peace rather than war, he agreeth to thy 
 proposals of peace; but see to it well that Afrasiab crosseth 
 not the Jihun." 
 
 So peace was made between Iran and Turan, and so 
 Rustem won his first laurels as a warrior.
 
 RUSTEM'S SEVEN LABORS, OR 
 ADVENTURES 
 
 ETEN unto the tale of the seven adventures of Rus- 
 tem, encountered while rescuing a foolish Shah from 
 the consequences of his folly. 
 
 Now the foolish one was not the glorious Kaikobad who 
 reigned beneficently over Iran for twice fifty years, but his 
 son Kaikous, who, when his father exchanged the palace 
 for the tomb, seated himself upon the throne of light, at 
 first exercising many of the princely virtues of his illus- 
 trious predecessors. But alas! as his riches increased and 
 his armies grew stronger, he became filled with self-admi- 
 ration and pride, indulging more and more in the fascina- 
 tions of the wine cup, until in the midst of his luxurious 
 feasting with his warriors and chiefs, he, like the great 
 Shah Jemshid, beheld no one but himself in the world. 
 
 Then it came to pass that one day as the vain Shah sat 
 in his trellised bower in the garden of roses, drinking wine, 
 boasting, and making merry with his friends, a Deev, dis- 
 guised as a minstrel and playing sweetly upon his harp, 
 presented himself before the King's chamberlain, desiring 
 audience. And he said: 
 
 "Thou beholdest before thee, O Servant of the King, 
 a singer of sweet songs, come unto thee from Mazinderan, 
 desiring to pay homage unto the great King of Kings. 
 Admit me, therefore, I pray thee, into the arbor of flowers, 
 for in my throat are gay singing-birds which will make 
 the bower a paradise of joy." 
 
 120
 
 RUSTEM'S SEVEN LABORS 121 
 
 So the chamberlain, beguiled by the charm of the 
 youth, hastened at once unto the King to beg audience for 
 him. And he said: 
 
 " O Shelter of the Universe, at the gate is a minstrel with 
 his harp. And lo! in his throat he hides a flock of singing- 
 birds fresh from the gardens of paradise. He hath come 
 hither desiring to prostrate himself before the most illus- 
 trious of all the Shahs of Iran, and he awaiteth thy com- 
 mands, being naught but the dust at thy feet." 
 
 So the King, pleased with this flattery, and with no sus- 
 picion of guile, commanded that the musician be brought 
 before him. Then the youth, being admitted, and having 
 performed obeisance, warbled forth unto the monarch 
 words of deep cunning, for his song was of the enchanted 
 land of the Genii: 
 
 "Now thus he warbled to the King 
 Mazinderan is the bower of spring, 
 My native home; the balmy air 
 Diffuses health and fragrance there; 
 So tempered is the genial glow, 
 Nor heat nor cold we ever know; 
 Tulips and hyacinths abound 
 On every lawn; and all around 
 Blooms like a garden in its prime. 
 Fostered by that delicious clime. 
 The bulbul sits on every spray, 
 And pours his soft melodious lay; 
 Each rural spot its sweets discloses, 
 Each streamlet is the dew of roses; 
 The damsels, idols of the heart, 
 Sustain a most bewitching part. 
 And mark me, that untravelled man 
 Who never saw Mazinderan, 
 And all the charms its bowers possess, 
 Has never tasted happiness!"
 
 122 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Now as the King's great desire was to drain the cup of 
 happiness to the dregs, no sooner had he heard the min- 
 strel's lay of this enchanting land than straightway he 
 became inflamed with the desire to possess it for his own. 
 Turning, therefore, unto his warriors, he at once declared 
 that the glory of his reign should be the conquest of this 
 wonderful country. For, he said: 
 
 "Verily it behooveth a great Shah to be a hero among 
 men, and the world should be his footstool. Now in 
 wealth, and power, and splendor, I, Kaikous, surpass not 
 only the glorious Jemshid, but all my predecessors, and 
 I say unto you that my prowess shall also be greater, for 
 verily I mean to be master of Mazinderan which hath 
 ever resisted the might of the greatest of the Shahs of Iran. 
 Too long, O my nobles, have we abandoned ourselves to 
 feasting, but now I bid you prepare for battle, for pres- 
 ently I will lead you into the enchanted land of the Genii, 
 thus causing the glory of Kaikous to mount even unto the 
 stars." 
 
 Alas! the nobles, when they heard these words of vanity 
 and folly, grew pale with dread, for they had no desire to 
 invade the country of the Deevs. But knowing the temper 
 of the Shah, no one was brave enough to utter protest, 
 though the hearts of all were full of misgivings and their 
 mouths of sighs. But among themselves, when they could 
 speak openly, they said one unto another: 
 
 "What folly is this! And what calamity will it bring 
 upon us, unless, by good fortune, the King forgetteth in 
 his cups this wild undertaking! Why, even the great 
 Jemshid, whom the Genii and the Peri and the very 
 birds of the air obeyed, never dreamed of trying to con- 
 quer the Deevs of Mazinderan, before whom the sword
 
 RUSTEM'S SEVEN LABORS 123 
 
 hath no power and wisdom is of no avail! And the great 
 Feridoun, though he was the wisest of Kings, and skilled 
 in all the arts of magic, never cherished such an enterprise! 
 Truly, Kaikous is mad!" 
 
 So they talked in their anger and perplexity; and finally 
 they sent forth a wind-footed dromedary and a messenger 
 unto Zal, the Wise One of Iran, saying unto him: 
 
 " O Gracious Pehliva, once again is Iran in danger and 
 hath sore need of thee. Therefore, though thy head be 
 covered with dust, tarry not to cleanse it, but come quickly 
 unto us, for verily the Evil One hath strewn mischievous 
 seed in the heart of the Shah which threatens a bitter har- 
 vest, and we look unto thee to speak wise words of counsel 
 unto him that this calamity may be averted." 
 
 Sore distressed by the words of the messenger, Zal 
 shook his head sorrowfully, for he had not dreamed that 
 this leaf on the royal tree would so soon show signs of 
 canker. Nevertheless, he spoke words of comfort unto 
 the messenger, saying: 
 
 "The great Kaikous is, I fear, puffed up with vanity, 
 being not yet tried by either the cold or the heat of the 
 world. And alas! I fear me, if what thou sayest be true, 
 that the sun must revolve yet oft above his head ere he 
 learneth the wisdom of the great; for unto true wisdom 
 alone is it given to know when to strike and when to with- 
 hold the hand. Verily, he is like a child with a sword who 
 thinketh the world and all therein must tremble, if he but 
 upraiseth it. He will learn better with experience. I will 
 not abandon him, therefore, to his folly, but will give him 
 the best advice that I can. Then if he be persuaded by 
 me, well; but if not, Rustem shall safeguard the army for 
 the sake of the welfare of Iran."
 
 124 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Now having thus spoken, Zal quickly girt about him his 
 red sash of might, took in his hand his great mace and 
 hastened unto the court, where, being received with great 
 honor and kindness, he proceeded to unburden his heart, 
 entreating the Shah not to give his warriors and treasure 
 unto the wind by undertaking the useless journey into 
 Mazinderan. 
 
 But Kaikous, arrogant and self-willed, only smiled at 
 the warnings of the white-haired old warrior, saying 
 unto him: 
 
 " O Pillar of Iran, while I despise not thy counsel, yet thy 
 words shall not divert me from my purpose, for in thy argu- 
 ments, one thing thou forgettest: that I, Kaikous, am 
 bolder of heart, and my power and wealth greater than 
 any of the Shahs of Old. Yea, and I ask you, who among 
 them had such warriors as thyself, and Rustem, thy glori- 
 ous son? But verily, I shall not need any of the house of 
 Zal in this war, since thy heart is not set upon glory. Thou 
 and Rustem, therefore, can guard the kingdom while I go 
 forth to soul-appalling conflict, which I fear not, 
 
 "For what are all the Demon-charms, 
 That they excite such dread alarms? 
 What is a Demon-host to me, 
 Their magic spells and sorcery? 
 One effort, and the field is won; 
 Then why should I the battle shun? 
 Lo, when I reach the Demon fort, 
 Their several heads shall be my sport! " 
 
 Thus spake the King in his pride and vanity, and Zal, 
 seeing that words were useless, bowed his head low in the 
 dust before the monarch, saying unto him : 
 
 "May the great Shah never have cause to recollect the
 
 RUSTEM'S SEVEN LABORS 125 
 
 warning voice of his servant with repentance or sorrow! 
 May his glory shine on undimmed forever!" 
 
 Now when he had so spoken, Zal departed, and all the 
 people mourned for they saw that Kaikous was wholly 
 given over unto folly, and their hearts misgave them. 
 
 But not so was it with the King, for ere the week had run 
 its course, the great army of Iran was set in motion, while 
 at its head rode the vainglorious Kaikous, confident, self- 
 satisfied, merry, his magnificent retinue of richly capari- 
 soned horses and camels making the earth tremble beneath 
 their tread. So they marched, each night pitching their 
 tents and passing the hours in revel, until at last they were 
 come near unto the land of enchantment. Then Kaikous, 
 calling before him Gew, one of the bravest of his warriors, 
 said unto him: 
 
 "O Valiant One, choose, I pray thee, two thousand of 
 the bravest men, and the boldest wielders of the battle-axe, 
 that ye may break down the gates of Mazinderan. In thy 
 progress, burn and destroy everything of value, and when 
 thou hast taken the city, spare no dweller of the place, 
 neither man, nor woman, nor child, for all are Deevs." 
 
 So Gew advanced, and when he was come unto the city, 
 he found it indeed arrayed in all the splendor of Paradise, 
 even as the minstrel had sung; for beauty, and verdure, 
 and fragrance filled all the senses with delight, while gold, 
 and jewels, and treasure of priceless value glittered and 
 gleamed, and massed itself everywhere. And in all the 
 streets, too, were beautiful maidens, richly adorned, with 
 faces as bright as the moon, and cheeks tinted with the hue 
 of the pomegranate flower by the beautiful Houri of Para- 
 dise. But Gew, knowing that all this was the work of en- 
 chantment, was not in the least beguiled. So soon clubs
 
 126 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 rained down upon the people like hail, and the city that 
 resembled a garden was changed into a desert, and all the 
 dwellers therein perished at the hands of the enemy; neither 
 was mercy shown unto any. 
 
 Meanwhile, as this terrible work of slaughter and destruc- 
 tion was being performed by his brave warriors, the valiant 
 Kaikous, at a safe distance, was encamped in splendid 
 state upon the plain, indulging in revelry and the wildest 
 dreams of a glorious victory. When the news of the de- 
 struction of the city and of the great treasure hidden within 
 its palaces was brought unto him, therefore, wild with 
 elation, he sprang to his feet, and holding his wine cup 
 high, cried exultantly: 
 
 "Hail to the glorious Kaikous, who hath overcome even 
 the Deevs of Mazinderan! Aye, and blessings upon the 
 sweet singer who warbled unto him of this glorious land of 
 treasure! May his life's tree put forth many green leaves; 
 may it blossom in the garden of Paradise!" 
 
 Thus spake Kaikous; and his warriors, too, rejoiced at 
 the thought of the limitless treasure soon to be theirs. So 
 on the following day the whole army pressed forward to 
 join Gew and his warriors in Mazinderan, and for seven 
 days they ceased not from plundering, neither was there 
 an end to the gold and jewels which they found. And in 
 their greed they sorrowed not for the beauty laid waste, 
 or the woe which they had caused, but, like madmen, they 
 spent their days in plundering and their nights in revelry. 
 
 But retribution was at hand, for now the news of the 
 havoc being wrought by the Persians pierced even unto 
 the ears of the distant King of Mazinderan, who at once 
 despatched a messenger unto the Great White Deev, the 
 most powerful and dreadful of all the master magicians of
 
 RUSTEM'S SEVEN LABORS 127 
 
 the East, entreating him to come at once unto the rescue, 
 lest the whole land perish under the feet of Iran. Then the 
 dreadful White Deev uprose in his wrath until he appeared 
 like unto a snow-capped mountain in his fury, roaring like 
 the River Nile, until all the earth trembled, and he said: 
 
 "Thinks this puny, childish Shah to pit himself against 
 the master magicians of the East, that he thus invadeth 
 our land? Verily, the imbecile shall pay dearly for his 
 folly!" 
 
 So it came to pass that on this same day, when the night 
 was fallen, a wonderful cloud, heavy and dark, spread itself 
 over Kaikous and his army, wrapping them in a tent of 
 blackness. Then from out the pitch-black sky the wrath- 
 ful Deev caused it to rain stones and javelins, causing a 
 terror and confusion like unto the great day of judgment. 
 Nor could the men of Iran protect themselves against this 
 strange attack, since all was the work of magic. So the 
 dead piled up, and the cries of the wounded swelled into 
 a horrible dirge, while the horror of it all drove many to 
 madness. And not only this, for behold, when the day 
 dawned after this night of horror, lo! the King, and all 
 those who had not fled, or been killed by the hailstones 
 and javelins, were stone-blind. 
 
 Then followed for the sightless monarch and his follow- 
 ers seven terrible days of anguish as, moaning and lament- 
 ing, they sat helpess among the ruins of Mazinderan. 
 Yea, the great Kaikous wept bitterly in his terror, and the 
 army with him, until so awful became the cry that it 
 reached even unto the Seven Mountains where dwelt the 
 great White Deev, arousing him from his mid-day slum- 
 ber. Then suddenly his voice, loud as a clap of thunder, 
 fell upon the ear of the wretched Kaikous. And he said:
 
 128 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 "Vain Monarch! Thou thoughtest in thy folly to con- 
 quer the land of the Great White Deev, who from the 
 gorgeous vault of heaven can charm the stars. Thou fool! 
 Now there thou liest, struck down like a rotten trunk, and 
 upon thine own head alone resteth this destruction. Verily, 
 thou hast attained unto Mazinderan, which was thy 
 heart's desire, wherefore be now content!" 
 
 But alas! The Shah and his unfortunate companions 
 were not soon to know content, since they were now turned 
 over into the charge of twelve thousand Genii whose duty 
 it was to keep them in prison, withholding from them wine 
 and all good cheer, but giving unto them each day just 
 enough food to keep them alive, that their suffering might 
 be prolonged, for they gloried in their wretchedness. 
 
 Now thus dwelt Kaikous in the land after which his heart 
 had yearned, until the eyes of his soul being opened, in 
 genuine repentance, he bowed himself in the dust, casting 
 black earth upon his head and acknowledging his fault. 
 Then, casting about in his mind how they might obtain 
 release, finally, after many weary moons, the King suc- 
 ceeded in sending a messenger unto Zal of the white hair. 
 And he said: 
 
 "O my Great Pehliva, hearken unto the voice of thy 
 sovereign who crieth unto thee in penitence and woe! 
 Verily, I have sought what the foolish seek, and found 
 what they find, and I deserve not thy help, since I turned 
 a deaf ear unto thy words of wisdom; yet for my compan- 
 ions' sake, I beseech thee to gird thy loins and come 
 quickly unto us, or we perish in our misery." 
 
 Thus humbled himself the great Shah, but Zal, when he 
 received the message, was cut to the heart that the pride of 
 Iran should be thus trailed in the dust; and he wrung his
 
 RUSTEM'S SEVEN LABORS 129 
 
 hands bitterly, crying out against the folly which was to 
 cost the land so dear. Nevertheless, he quickly sent for 
 Rustem, saying unto him: 
 
 " O my glorious son, word hath just reached me that the 
 King is held with his companions blind and captive in the 
 dragon's den. As for me, I am old and feeble, a warrior 
 bowed with the weight of two centuries, no longer able to 
 fight against the Deevs. But thou art young and thy soul 
 rejoiceth in battle. Gird about thee, therefore, thy leop- 
 ard's skin, saddle Rakush, and deliver the King from out 
 the hands of the Genii, thus winning for thyself immortal 
 fame." 
 
 Now Rustem smiled as he heard his father's words, say- 
 ing unto him: 
 
 " O my silver-crowned father, verily thou knowest that 
 Rakush and I are spoiling for battle, and though of old the 
 mighty went not forth to fight the powers of darkness, 
 being not so weary of the world as to walk willingly into 
 the mouth of a hungry lion, yet with God's help will I 
 overcome these wicked Deevs, and gird our army anew 
 with the red sash of might, since the glory of Iran de- 
 mandeth it." 
 
 Then Zal blessed his son, speaking unto him long and 
 earnestly as to the arduous task before him. And he said : 
 
 "I understand, O my son, that two roads lead into this 
 land of enchantment, both of them difficult and dangerous. 
 The King went by the longer way. It is the safest, but since 
 it behooveth vengeance to be fleet, choose it not. But the 
 other way, though by far the shorter, is beset by baleful 
 evils, and is surrounded by darkness. Still it will be 
 wisest, I think, to go by this road, for though difficult, it 
 will have an end, and Rakush will carry thee quicker than
 
 130 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 a bird can fly. Go, therefore, my son, and may Ormuzd 
 return thee safe unto my arms. If, however, it be the will 
 of Heaven that thou shouldst perish by the hand of the 
 great White Deev, why, who can escape his destiny? 
 Verily, soon or late Death's door swings wide for every child 
 of Ormuzd, and thrice blessed is he who leaveth behind 
 him in the world a trail of glory." 
 
 When Rustem had drunk in the noble words of his 
 father, he embraced him tenderly, feeling his strength to 
 be sufficient even for the Great White Deev. Then he 
 commanded that Rakush, the fleet of foot, be brought 
 unto him. But alas! when he would have departed, Ru- 
 dabeh uttered bitter cries that her boy should be sent to 
 fight alone and unaided the wicked Deevs, and in her 
 sorrow she would have hindered him. But Rustem suf- 
 fered it not, making light of her fears and comforting her 
 with his voice and arms. So finally, embracing him, 
 Rudabeh let him depart, but her heart yearned after him, 
 and her eyes were wet with tears yet many days after his 
 departure, and she prayed continually unto Ormuzd, that 
 Serosch the Angel of Pity keep nightly watch over his 
 slumbers. 
 
 So, with only his faithful steed for company, but brave 
 of heart, Rustem set out upon his perilous journey; and, as 
 if recognizing the urgent need for haste, Rakush caused the 
 ground to vanish under his feet, his speed being so great 
 that he accomplished two days' journey in one. But at 
 last, evening having fallen, the young hero of the world, 
 finding himself weary and hungry, decided to stop for the 
 night. 
 
 Now the plain upon which Rustem chose his camping- 
 ground was filled with herds of gor, which made it easy for
 
 RUSTEM'S SEVEN LABORS 131 
 
 him to secure his evening meal, since there was no escape 
 for the swiftest beast when Rustem was mounted upon 
 Rakush. Soon, therefore, with his lasso, he succeeded in 
 snaring a wild ass, which he quickly roasted and ate. 
 Then, his hunger appeased, the young warrior prepared 
 for himself a couch among the reeds, and, his mace by his 
 side, he lay down to sleep, fearing neither wild beast nor 
 Deev, while Rakush grazed contentedly near by. 
 
 But, unfortunately, in the rushes near the young hero's 
 couch was hidden the lair of a fierce lion, and after Rustem 
 had fallen asleep the hungry beast, attracted by the odor 
 of the gor's flesh, returned unto his haunt; and then a pair 
 of fiery eyeballs moved stealthily nearer and nearer unto 
 the dying fire. But when at last within the circle of light, 
 what was the lion's astonishment to behold, lying peace- 
 fully asleep upon the rushes, a man as tall as an elephant 
 watched over by a noble charger ! 
 
 Now the king of the forest was hungry, not having been 
 successful in his hunting, so as he gazed his heart rejoiced 
 at the thought of the fat meal in store for him. But, being 
 a sagacious beast, he said unto himself: 
 
 " Since I am very, very hungry, I must take no chance 
 of allowing this delicious morsel to escape my lips. Con- 
 sequently, first I will subdue this gentle-looking steed; 
 then I can feast upon the rider at my leisure." 
 
 So, suddenly the huge beast bounded from the under- 
 brush, falling upon Rakush with great violence. But the 
 faithful steed was not caught napping, for while appar- 
 ently unconscious of the approach of danger, he had at once 
 scented the foe, and was ready for the attack. What was 
 the lion's astonishment, therefore, to find himself received 
 with a terrific and well-aimed tick that sent him back into
 
 132 PERSIAN. HERO TALES 
 
 the bushes more quickly than he had come forth ! And not 
 only that, but before he could recover from his amaze- 
 ment, like a flash of light Rakush was upon him, striking 
 him on the head with his fore-feet, tearing him with his 
 sharp teeth, and battering and trampling him like a Demon. 
 Yea, so furious was his rage, that he was still stamping 
 upon the lifeless mass when Rustem awoke! 
 
 Then the Hero, seeing the dead lion, which was truly of 
 a monstrous size, knew at once what had happened, and 
 calling Rakush, he rebuked even while he caressed him. 
 And he said : 
 
 "Ah, Rakush, why so thoughtless grown, 
 To fight a lion thus alone ? 
 For had it been thy fate to bleed, 
 And not thy foe, my gallant steed! 
 How could thy master have conveyed 
 His helm, and battle-axe, and blade, 
 Unaided to Mazinderan? 
 Why didst thou fail to give the alarm, 
 And save thyself from chance of harm, 
 By neighing loudly in my ear; 
 But though thy bold heart knows no fear, 
 From such unwise exploits refrain, 
 Nor try a lion's strength again." 
 
 Now having thus exhorted Rakush, Rustem again com- 
 posed himself to slumber, and rested undisturbed until the 
 morning light had tinted the distant mountain peaks with 
 rose and amber. Then having broken his fast, he saddled 
 Rakush, and pursued his perilous journey, thanking God 
 that, owing to the faithfulness and bravery of his steed, the 
 first adventure had terminated happily. 
 
 But alas! he had now to accomplish the most difficult 
 part of his journey, for the way led across a waterless
 
 RUSTEM'S SEVEN LABORS 133 
 
 desert so hot that not even the birds could fly over it. 
 Now the morning hours were endurable, but when the 
 noon-tide sun poured down upon their heads its pitiless 
 rays, making of the sand living fire, then horse and rider 
 became tortured with the most maddening thirst, and no- 
 where could water be found. 
 
 At this crisis Rustem dismounted, since he was no longer 
 able to keep his place upon the back of his brave steed, 
 but, nevertheless, for some time longer he continued to 
 struggle forward, supported by his spear. Finally, how- 
 ever, his strength became broken and, utterly exhausted, 
 he sank upon the earth, his body prostrate upon the burn- 
 ing sand, his tongue and throat parched with thirst. Then 
 in his agony, his soul lifted itself up in a mighty cry unto the 
 Almighty for protection against the evils which surrounded 
 him, for he feared that his hour was come. But not so, 
 for behold! even as he prayed, there passed before him 
 a well-nourished ram, which was at once hailed by the 
 hero as a harbinger of good. For he said: 
 
 " Surely an oasis must be somewhere near, or how could 
 this sheep so bear upon it the impress of the drinking- 
 place!" 
 
 Rising up quickly, therefore, Rustem followed the ram's 
 footsteps, holding the bridle of Rakush in one hand and 
 his sword in the other, and behold! it led him unto a foun- 
 tain of water, clear and cool, in the shade of a clump of 
 trees. Stooping down, therefore, Rustem drank greedily 
 until his thirst was quenched, giving also unto Rakush, 
 and bathing him in the waters. Then being refreshed, 
 he looked about for the ram, but lo! it had vanished. 
 So then Rustem knew that Ormuzd had wrought a 
 wonder for his sake, and falling upon the ground, he
 
 134 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 gave thanks unto the All-Merciful One. And so full was 
 his heart of thanksgiving that he also blessed the ram, 
 saying: 
 
 " O Beast of God, wherever thou art, may no harm come 
 unto thee forever! May the grass of the valleys and of the 
 desert be always green for thee! May the spear- point be 
 blunted and the bow be broken of him who would hunt 
 thee, or do thee harm! For verily, without thy guidance, 
 Rustem would have perished in the desert, and the heroes 
 of Iran would have been left without succor in the hands of 
 the cruel Deevs." 
 
 And now the Mighty One, being hungry, killed another 
 gor, of which he ate almost the whole. Then having 
 bathed in the fountain, as the shades of night were 
 coming on he gladly sought a resting-place among the 
 stunted herbage. But before lying down he said unto 
 Rakush: 
 
 "Beware, my steed, of future strife, 
 Again thou must not risk thy life; 
 But should an enemy appear, 
 Ring loud thy warning in my ear." 
 
 Now having thus spoken, with a sigh of thankfulness 
 that his second adventure had terminated thus happily, 
 Rustem threw himself down upon his warrior's couch, 
 and being fatigued, soon sleep wrapped him about, hold- 
 ing him fast until the bright constellations in the tropical 
 sky pointed to the hour of midnight. 
 
 Then he was awakened unto a new horror, for you must 
 know that in this part of the desert there lived a monstrous 
 dragon, eighty yards in length, and so fierce that neither 
 elephant, nor demon, nor lion ever ventured to pass by its
 
 RUSTEM'S SEVEN LABORS 135 
 
 lair. Yea, so terrible was it that not even the birds dared 
 fly across that part of the desert, for with its poisonous 
 breath it could bring down even the eagle from the sky. 
 Imagine, then, how this scourge of the desert opened wide 
 his snaky eyes with astonishment when, emerging from 
 the forest at the turn of the night, he beheld a man slum- 
 bering softly beside his lair! 
 
 But, as usual, Rakush was on the alert. Consequently, 
 as he caught the gleam of beady eyes, and scented the 
 poisoned breath of the dragon, he quickly stepped nearer 
 to his unconscious master, stamping with his hoofs upon the 
 ground, beating the air with his tail, and neighing loudly. 
 Now all this noise so startled the dragon that he quickly 
 drew back into the forest, and as a consequence, when 
 Rustem awoke he could see nothing disquieting, for 
 of course the monster had vanished. Seeing no cause 
 for alarm, therefore, he was angry at being needlessly 
 disturbed, and rebuked Rakush for his nervousness, 
 saying: 
 
 " Rakush, thou thunderer ! I fear me the sun hath turned 
 thy brain. Quiet now, quiet! for to-morrow will bring for 
 us another hard day's journey." 
 
 So, having thus somewhat calmed his excited steed, 
 once more Rustem gave himself up to slumber, but not for 
 long! For, though the darkness became thicker and more 
 impenetrable, in a short time the watchful horse once more 
 caught the gleam of baleful eyes, and again he ran with all 
 speed unto his master, tearing up the ground and^eighing 
 angrily. So a second time was Rustem awakened and a 
 second time also did the dragon vanish ere the eyes of the 
 hero beheld him. Then was Rustem angry, and in his 
 impatience he spake sharply unto Rakush, chiding him
 
 136 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 for thus disturbing his slumbers by causeless alarms. 
 And he said unto his brave steed: 
 
 "Why thus again disturb my rest, 
 When sleep had softly soothed my breast? 
 I told thee if thou chanced to see 
 Another dangerous enemy 
 To sound the alarm; but not to keep 
 Depriving me of needful sleep, 
 When nothing meets the eye nor ear, 
 Nothing to cause a moment's fear! 
 Now if again my rest is broke, 
 On thee shall fall the fatal stroke, 
 And I myself will drag this load 
 Of ponderous arms along the road; 
 Yea, I will go, a lonely man, 
 Without thee to Mazinderan." 
 
 Alas, poor Rakush! grieved and wounded by the unjust 
 reproaches of his master, with drooping head he drew 
 quickly back; but as Rustem wrapped his leopard's skin 
 about him, and a third time slept, softly he drew near once 
 more, standing a tireless watcher by his side. Then the 
 dragon, seeing that the hero slept, once more came forth, 
 prepared to fall upon him, and Rakush was sore dis- 
 tressed, for he knew not how to act. But as his love for his 
 master was great, taking courage, once more he stamped 
 the earth and woke him. 
 
 Then Rustem sprang up in a rage, but Ormuzd who 
 watcheth ever over his children, at this moment caused the 
 eastern sky to flush with a rosy glow, in the light of which 
 the hero beheld the prodigious cause of alarm. Pausing 
 not, therefore, he quickly drew about him his armor, and, 
 unsheathing his sword, rushed forward to meet the ugly
 
 RUSTEM'S SEVEN LABORS 137 
 
 monster. But to his surprise, as he advanced, the dragon 
 spoke, and he said: 
 
 "Vain creature, what doest thou here? Verily, the 
 mother that bare thee shall weep, for I will tear thy soul 
 from out thy body, and thy name, if thou hast one, shall be 
 blotted from the book of life, for no man hath ever yet 
 saved himself from my claws." 
 
 Uttering this terrible threat, the dragon belched forth 
 fire and roared horribly, but Rustem, no whit deterred, 
 continued to advance, saying proudly: 
 
 "Hideous monster! Thinkest thou to terrify me with 
 thy smoke and noisy words? If so, thou errest. For 
 behold! I am Rustem, son of the white-haired Zal, and 
 there is naught upon earth that I fear, for I come of a race 
 of heroes." 
 
 Now hearing these bold words, the dragon laughed, for 
 he held them to be the vain boasts of a stripling; and 
 again he vomited forth fire and poison. Then he fell upon 
 Rustem, and dreadful was the shock, and perilous unto the 
 hero, for the vile creature wound himself around and 
 about his body, threatening to crush him with his writh- 
 ings, and you would have said that the end of the valiant 
 one was at hand, so dreadful was the dragon's embrace. 
 
 But at this perilous moment, Rakush, beholding the 
 contest to be doubtful, laid back his ears and proceeded 
 to take a hand in the battle. And being wise, he fell upon 
 the enemy from the rear, with his keen teeth, furiously 
 biting and tearing away the dragon's scaly hide, just as he 
 had torn the lion. Now this gave unto the pinioned hero 
 his opportunity, and, quick as thought, he severed the 
 ghastly head, deluging all the plain with horrid blood. 
 And lo! as the hideous coils unclasped, the amazement of
 
 138 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Rustem was truly great as he gazed at the monstrous form 
 which extended endlessly before him; and he wondered 
 not that for centuries it should have been known unto men 
 as the scourge of the desert. 
 
 Giving thanks unto the Omnipotent, therefore, that it 
 had been vouchsafed unto him to rid the world of so great 
 a pest, after bathing Rakush at the fountain, he sprang 
 into the saddle and started out upon his fourth adventure. 
 
 Now all that day Rustem travelled across the plain, 
 arriving at sunset in the land of the magicians, and as here 
 all was enchantment, everything was most beautiful. The 
 feathered palms along the way nodded their heads lazily, 
 coquetting with the soft south wind, while the bananas 
 flaunted their silken flags around the ripening fruit, and on 
 the ground, in rich profusion, lay, temptingly, rose-apples 
 and citrons. A crystal stream flowed along between slop- 
 ing banks of luxurious foliage, and in the woods the 
 glorious nightingale chanted joyously unto the nodding 
 flowers. 
 
 And lo! in this beautiful wilderness, upon the sight of 
 the hungry adventurer there suddenly appeared a daintily- 
 spread table, where the richest tropical fruits and sweets 
 lay beside a roast of venison, while the cups were filled with 
 purple wine. Now seeing, thus unexpectedly, in the green 
 and shady vale, all this good cheer awaiting him, Rustem's 
 heart sang with delight, for he suspected not that it was 
 the evening meal of certain magicians who had made them- 
 selves invisible at his approach. 
 
 So, hastily dismounting, the weary warrior unsaddled 
 Rakush, bidding him graze and drink. Then seating 
 himself at the table, he partook freely of the dainty fare, 
 his spirit laughing with pleasure at finding in the wildwood
 
 RUSTEM'S SEVEN LABORS 139 
 
 such an excellently-appointed table. Indeed, so gay in 
 spirit was he that, his hunger being satisfied, he took up 
 the lyre which he saw lying by the flagon of wine, and 
 chanted a lively ditty about his own wanderings and the 
 exploits which he most loved; and ever and again there 
 echoed the refrain : 
 
 "Oh, the scourge of the wicked am I, 
 And my days still in battle go by; 
 Not for me is the red wine that glows 
 In the reveller's cup, nor the rose 
 That blooms in the land of delight; 
 But with monsters and demons to fight." 
 
 Alas! though Rustem dreamed it not, as he sang his 
 voice reached the ears of a famous enchantress, who quickly 
 changed herself into a beautiful maiden with a face of 
 spring, lovely as only enchantment could make her, as you 
 shall hear. For her complexion was like shell-tinted ivory; 
 her lips like the pomegranate and her cheek like its flower; 
 her soft, dark eyes were curtained with long, sweeping 
 lashes, and her eyebrows were arched like a fringed bow; 
 her lovely form, scarcely concealed by the misty, oriental 
 robes which she wore, was a joy to behold, and so sweet 
 was she that, at her coming, all the air was perfumed with 
 the delicate fragrance of a spring garden. 
 
 But though conscious of a new sensation of delight, at 
 first Rustem did not realize that he was no longer alone. 
 As the bewitching maiden drew nearer, however, singing 
 softly Rustem's refrain, and holding out her beautiful 
 hands in greeting, then indeed did his heart pulse strangely, 
 for never had he beheld such dazzling loveliness. And, 
 moreover, resting herself at his side, and turning her ra- 
 diant eyes upon him, his charming guest now crooned into
 
 140 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 his ear a strange song of enchantment which disturbed 
 while it yet delighted the hero. 
 
 Remembering the duties of hospitality, however, as the 
 music ceased, the enraptured warrior extended unto his 
 beautiful companion a glass of wine in welcome, bidding 
 her drink in the name of Ormuzd. But behold! as the 
 hero named the name of God, suddenly the wicked sor- 
 ceress changed color, becoming in the twinkling of an eye 
 as black as charcoal. Then Rustem knew her for a witch, 
 and quick as the wind he snared her in his lasso, crying 
 unto her: 
 
 "Thou wicked creature, show thyself at once in thy true 
 shape, for I would not destroy the innocent." 
 
 Now at these words of the Hero, immediately the witch 
 was changed into a decrepit, leering old creature whose 
 whole being showed her wickedness of heart. Therefore, 
 with a single blow of his sword, Rustem severed her in 
 twain. But behold! as he would have swept the vile clay 
 from his path, it vanished, and the low, mocking laugh of 
 the fiend was heard in the distance, showing that not even 
 the sword had power to hurt her. And gone, too, was the 
 dainty table with its tempting viands and poisoned wine; 
 for the magicians, when they beheld the valor of Rustem 
 and realized that he was under the protection of God, 
 dared not come forth to contend with him. So in this 
 fourth adventure, also, was the son of Zal victorious. 
 Nevertheless, he tarried not longer in this spot, for it had 
 become hateful unto him. 
 
 Continuing his journey, therefore, Rustem pressed rap- 
 idly forward until the following morning, when lo! he was 
 come unto the land of darkness, where the sun never shone, 
 neither did moon nor star ever lighten up the awful, im-
 
 RUSTEM'S SEVEN LABORS 141 
 
 penetrable gloom. Now here he paused, not knowing 
 what new trial the darkess might conceal. But presently, 
 lifting up his heart unto Ormuzd for protection and guid- 
 ance, he gave unto Rakush the rein, and plunged boldly 
 forward into the gloom. But ah, the horror of it! for 
 there was no path, and so for many long hours they stum- 
 bled about in the pitch blackness, constantly on the alert 
 against unknown danger, and not knowing whither their 
 steps might lead them. But finally, thanks unto the All- 
 Merciful One, the intense darkness lightened, and they 
 emerged into a most beautiful country where the sun was 
 shining brightly and the earth was covered with waving 
 grain. 
 
 And here, being tired after the long, hard travel, Rustem 
 dismounted, took off his cuirass of tiger-skin and his hel- 
 met, and bidding Rakush find pasture where he would 
 in the fertile fields, he himself lay down to sleep, his shield 
 beneath his head and his sword and mace by his side. 
 
 Yea, and while the tired Rustem slept, his faithful horse 
 grazed upon the growing corn, storing up strength for 
 future prowess. But alas! a disturbing element soon en- 
 tered upon this scene of peace and contentment. For the 
 keeper of the pasture returning unto the field, and behold- 
 ing a strange horse destroying and devouring his corn, 
 became filled with rage, so that running unto the spot 
 where the weary warrior was couched, he flung at him re- 
 proaches and evil words, at the same time beating the soles 
 of his feet with a stick. Then, having roused him, he said: 
 
 "Son of Satan! Why allowest thou thy demon steed to 
 rifle our corn-fields? Verily, if thou wouldst keep thy 
 soul in thy hulking body, up and away, both thee and thy 
 beast, else it will be the worse for thee!"
 
 142 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Now for just one second, after being thus rudely awak- 
 ened, Rustem gazed quietly at the keeper. Then, without 
 uttering a single syllable, good or bad, he sprang up, seized 
 him by the ears, and wrenched them from his head. And 
 lo! the mutilated wretch, surprised and dismayed at this 
 treatment, gathered up the severed members and fled 
 howling unto his master, Aulad, who was the ruler of all 
 this fertile country. Bursting into his presence, therefore, 
 his ears in his hand, the keeper bawled: 
 
 "Master, Master! Behold, out in the fields there is a 
 great black demon and his steed, a veritable son of Satan, 
 clad in a tiger-skin cuirass, and an iron helmet! And alas! 
 alas! not recognizing him as a demon, thy faithful servant 
 attempted gently to remonstrate with him because that his 
 horse was trampling and devouring the corn, when, 
 wouldst thou believe it? without a word, suddenly he 
 leaped upon me, tore my ears from my head, and then 
 calmly lay down to sleep again. And lo! here are my 
 ears in my hands." 
 
 Now as it happened, when the keeper burst upon Aulad 
 with his shocking tale, the great warrior was about to go 
 hunting with his chiefs; but being informed of this most 
 surprising deed of violence, he became so filled with wrath 
 that at once he called together his fighting men, and has- 
 tened unto the place indicated by the keeper, swearing 
 vengeance upon the perpetrator of the evil deed, be he 
 man or demon. 
 
 But Rustem was prepared for the invaders, since, seeing 
 the approach of Aulad and his warriors, he had donned his 
 armor, mounted upon Rakush, and now rode boldly for- 
 ward, his soul filled with joy at the thought of battle, even 
 though it was to be one against a hundred. And, indeed,
 
 RUSTEM'S SEVEN LABORS 143 
 
 so gigantic and fearsome looked he, with the spirit of the 
 fight upon him, that Aulad himself questioned, as he drew 
 near, whether his antagonist was man or demon. Never- 
 theless, he shouted unto him angrily: 
 
 "Son of Perdition, what is thy name? And why comest 
 thou here to disturb our peace? Verily, thou shalt pay 
 dearly for lopping off my keeper's ears, and thy demon 
 steed also for trampling my crops." 
 
 Then Rustem, heeding not the puny threats of Aulad, 
 thundered forth disdainfully, his words striking like can- 
 non-balls: 
 
 "Thou Worm! Verily, if thou shouldst hear my name, 
 it would freeze the blood in thy veins, causing thy heart 
 to stand still with terror. And though thou art come out 
 against me with a host, behold how I shall scatter them! 
 Yea, they shall fall beneath my sword like unto leaves in 
 an autumn gale, and the earth shall be watered with their 
 blood." 
 
 And this was no idle threat, for, having thus spoken, 
 Rustem drew his sword, and fastening his lasso securely 
 to his saddle-bow, dashed at the foe as a lion into the 
 midst of a herd of oxen, and dreadful was the havoc! 
 Now, with every blow of his sword he cut off a warrior's 
 head, his arm working as by magic, until he had beaten 
 down or scattered the whole company. And lo! as Aulad 
 saw what was come to pass, he wept and fled in dismay. 
 But he was not to escape, for Rustem, pursuing him, 
 threw his lasso about his neck, so that the world became 
 dark unto Aulad. Then, having bound him, the hero said 
 unto his captive: 
 
 " O Pinioned One, listen unto the voice of a wise coun- 
 sellor who sayeth unto thee : Verily, if thou wilt faithfully
 
 144 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 point out unto me the caves of the White Deev and his 
 warrior chiefs, and wilt guide me to where the Shah and 
 his men are imprisoned, saying unto me how I can deliver 
 them from their bondage, then, as I live, thy reward shall 
 be the kingdom of Mazinderan, for I myself will place 
 thee upon that throne. But beware, if thou deceivest me, 
 for in that moment thy worthless blood shall dye the earth." 
 
 Now having listened unto the voice of Rustem, Aulad 
 was glad, and he said: 
 
 " Stay, O Mighty Warrior, and be not wroth, for verily 
 thy desires shall be fulfilled! Behold, a hundred farsangs 
 from this spot is where Kaikous groaneth in bondage, but 
 it is yet another hundred farsangs unto the mountain pass 
 where dwelleth the Great White Deev. Here, between 
 two dark and lofty mountains, in two hundred caves, 
 immeasurably deep, his people dwell. But dangerous is 
 the way, for the passes are guarded by lions and magicians, 
 and a stormy desert lieth full before thee, which not even 
 the nimble deer hath ever passed. Then a broad stream 
 two farsangs wide will obstruct thy path, and upon its 
 banks thou wilt behold a mighty host of demon warriors 
 who ever guard the passage unto Mazinderan. 
 
 "O Mighty One, verily thou art terrible in battle; but 
 for all thy strong arms and hands, thy keen, life-destroy- 
 ing sword and thy giant club, I fear me thou wilt find the 
 White Deev a terrible enemy. For lo! like unto a reed 
 the mountains tremble, if the Terrible One but raiseth his 
 voice. And moreover, even if by the help of Ormuzd thou 
 shouldst conquer this mighty chief of all the master magi- 
 cians, behold, in the city of Mazinderan thou wilt be 
 pitted against thousands of demon warriors, and not a 
 coward among them all. War-elephants have they, too,
 
 RUSTEM'S SEVEN LABORS 145 
 
 by the hundreds, and they rage in battle with the fury of 
 the crocodile, while every demon chief fighteth in his 
 saddle like sharp-fanged dragons. 
 
 "And now, I ask thee, O valorous chief, canst thou, 
 alone and unaided, yet hope to overcome these fearful sons 
 of Satan and all the obstacles that block the way?" 
 
 Now hearing all this, Rustem answered simply unto 
 Aulad, and he said: 
 
 " O Timorous One, show me but the way and thou shalt 
 see what a single man, who putteth his trust in God, can 
 do, even though pitted against the powers of darkness." 
 
 So Rustem mounted once more upon Rakush and rode 
 forward upon his sixth adventure; and Aulad, having 
 been loosened from his bonds, ran in front of him to show 
 the way. Now for a whole day and a night they sped like 
 the wind, neither did they halt until they were come near 
 unto the spot where Kaikous had fallen into the power of 
 the evil Deevs. And here, about midnight, suddenly they 
 heard a great beating of drums and saw many fires blaze 
 up. Then Rustem said unto Aulad: 
 
 "I pray thee, good Aulad, what meaneth this piercing 
 clamor, and the watch-fires blazing up to right and left of 
 us?" 
 
 Then the guide, starting up, replied unto Rustem: 
 
 "O Mighty One, behold, yonder is Mazinderan! And 
 verily it seemeth unto me that Arzang, the most powerful 
 chief of the Great White Deev, must have arrived to- 
 night, else why these sounds of greeting!" 
 
 Being satisfied, therefore, as to the cause of the disturb- 
 ance, Rustem lay calmly down once more and slept 
 soundly until dawn. Then having bound his guide unto 
 a tree to keep him safe, the hero donned his helmet, and
 
 146 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 also the magic tiger-skin to defend his broad chest, and 
 with his grandfather's club hanging safe at his saddle- 
 bow, he rode boldly forward unto the city of Deevs. And 
 behold! when he was come near unto the camp of Arzang, 
 he uttered a cry that rent the mountains that terrible 
 battle-cry which from this time forth was to strike terror to 
 the heart of many a valiant foe! 
 
 Now upon hearing this mighty cry of a human voice, 
 surprised, the great Arzang issued hastily from his tent, 
 ready and anxious to attack this bold invader of his camp. 
 But Rustem, setting spurs unto Rakush, galloped forward 
 like the wind, seized the mighty chief, and dangling him 
 in his grasp like a puny worm, behold, in the twinkling of 
 an eye he had wrenched off the ugly black head and cast 
 it, all gory, far into the ranks of the shuddering Deevs, who, 
 beholding the fate of their chief, and dismayed at the sight 
 of Rustem' s mighty club, now fled in the wildest confusion, 
 fathers trampling their sons in their eagerness to escape. 
 But as by a hungry lion they were pursued, hundreds of 
 them being put to the sword. And lo! the fear of Rustem 
 was great in the land. 
 
 But the hero of this mighty adventure, having ceased 
 from pursuing the scattered Deevs, paused not. Quickly 
 returning unto his guide, therefore, he commanded that he 
 now lead the way unto the prison-house where Kaikous 
 and his companions pined in bondage. So Aulad led on as 
 before, and behold! when they were come unto Mazinderan, 
 Rakush neighed, and neighed so joyously that the sound of 
 it pierced even unto the ears of the captive monarch who, 
 hearing it, exclaimed rapturously unto his companions: 
 
 "Dance! Dance for joy, O my comrades! for surely 
 our evil days are ended. Listen! Hear ye not the voice
 
 RUSTEM'S SEVEN LABORS 147 
 
 of Rakush ? Yea, it is the voice of Rakush, for so neighed 
 he in the days of old when he and his master first tasted the 
 joys of battle in the war against Afrasiab." 
 
 Alas! the Persians, when they heard the words of the 
 King, shook their heads sorrowfully, thinking that grief 
 had distraught his wits, for they heard not the neighing 
 of Rakush, neither could the monarch convince them. 
 Imagine their delight, therefore, when Rustem presently 
 appeared ! Verily, so wild with joy were these poor blind 
 warriors at the prospect of release, that Rustem himself 
 shed tears of gladness, giving thanks anew unto Ormuzd 
 for protecting and guiding him hither. Then having re- 
 lated unto them the story of his wonderful progress and 
 adventures, the King, embracing him, said: 
 
 "O Beloved of Ormuzd! Truly there is none like unto 
 thee for prowess; nay, not even the great Saum, thy glori- 
 ous grandsire, ever equalled thee! But enough of sweet 
 words! for, jf we are to be delivered from our bondage, not 
 a moment must be wasted. 
 
 "Behold, it is borne in upon me, O my Pehliva, that 
 when the Great White Deev shall hear of the fall of Ar- 
 zang, his favorite chief, he will surely come forth from out 
 his mountain fastness, bringing with him such a multitude 
 of evil ones that not even thy great might will enable thee to 
 stand before them. Go, therefore, at once unto the Seven 
 Mountains and conquer the hideous monster before he 
 heareth of thy coming. 
 
 "And alas! I must send thee forth alone upon this dan- 
 gerous adventure, for we cannot help thee being all of us 
 blind; yet is this new enterprise far more difficult than any 
 thou hast had to encounter, and the odds are tremendous 
 against thee. For the way lieth over the Seven Mountains,
 
 148 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 all of them guarded by troops of Genii, and if thou art suc- 
 cessful in passing over them, then thou wilt see before thee 
 a deep, dark cavern, more terrible, I have heard, than the 
 pit of eternal darkness. Now the entrance is guarded by 
 horrible monsters, and in its depths dwelleth the Great 
 White Deev who is both the terror and the hope of his 
 army. And alas! our hope is he, too. For a Mubid hath 
 revealed unto me that the only remedy for our blindness is 
 to drop into our eyes three drops of the White Deev's 
 blood. 
 
 " Go forth, therefore, O Hero of Might, slay the Deev, 
 and bring back unto us the blood of his heart. Then shall 
 the tree of gladness blossom once more in Iran, and the 
 name of Rustem be blazoned among the stars." 
 
 Now thus exhorted, once more the son of Zal vaulted 
 into the saddle, Rakush carrying him like the wind, while 
 Aulad showed unto him the way. So they sped, and when 
 they were come unto the Seven Mountains, having passed 
 through difficulties many and sore, behold, not only the 
 summits, but all the caverns, were crowded with myriads 
 of companies of Deevs, fierce, black, and horrible beyond 
 belief, seeing which, Rustem said unto Aulad: 
 
 " Behold, the time of conflict hath come! Say unto me, 
 therefore, how I may vanquish this innumerable host of 
 evil ones." 
 
 Then Aulad, shaking his head doubtfully, replied unto 
 Rustem: 
 
 "O Mighty One! Verily thou hast one hope, and but 
 one. I counsel thee, therefore, that thou tarry here until 
 the sun be high in the heavens, for at noonday, when it 
 beateth fierce upon the earth, the Deevs are wont to slum- 
 ber. Then when they are drunk with sleep, fall suddenly
 
 RUSTEM'S SEVEN LABORS 149 
 
 upon them, for thus victory may be thine, if so the stars 
 decree." 
 
 So Rustem, taking Aulad's advice, halted by the road- 
 side until the sun was at its highest. Then binding his 
 guide securely, he drew forth his sword, and uttering his 
 thunderous battle-cry, he rushed upon the hordes of evil 
 Deevs, slaying first the few waking sentinels, and then 
 rapidly destroying the slumbering fiends. Nor was there 
 noise or confusion, for as each black one awoke, so sud- 
 denly he received his death blow that he had no time to 
 give the alarm; and so swift and terrible was Rustem in 
 his work of slaughter that few escaped his fury. And 
 harmless were those who did, for at once they fled scream- 
 ing into the deepest caves of the mountain, leaving the 
 champion victorious. Then Rustem, having thus dis- 
 persed the guards, advanced fearlessly unto the lair of the 
 Great White Deev. 
 
 But alas! alas! Never in all his imaginings had the hero 
 dreamed of a place so gloomy, and foul, and awesome. 
 And as he stood at the mouth of the cave, looking down, 
 down into the black recesses, dismal as the pit of eternal 
 darkness, for a time he doubted as to what he should do. 
 But as he was void of fear, presently he decided to go 
 forward. 
 
 Now the air of the cavern was murky and heavy with 
 evil odors, and as Rustem advanced he could not see his 
 path. But, though he knew that danger lurked on every 
 side, and that at any moment he might have to encounter 
 the evil genius of the place, as well as the powers of magic, 
 his heart quaked not. Nay; not even when at last there 
 loomed up before him from out the darkness a monstrous 
 shape which filled the whole breadth of the huge cavern,
 
 150 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 did he tremble or draw back. Yet well he knew by the thun- 
 derous snoring that this was no huge, snow-capped moun- 
 tain, but the Great White Deev taking his noonday nap. 
 
 Bold as a lion, therefore, Rustem advanced, shouting 
 his piercing battle-cry, for he scorned to take advantage of 
 his adversary while he slept. But verily he knew not what 
 he did, for upon being thus suddenly aroused from slum- 
 ber, the wrath of the Great White Deev was terrible. 
 Uttering a hideous shriek that made the blood run cold, 
 quickly he caught up from the ground in his mammoth 
 hand a stone as big as a small mountain, and pausing not, 
 with flaming eyes and foaming lips he advanced, hurling 
 it with all the force of his powerful arm straight at the 
 head of Rustem. But in vain; for quick as light it was 
 dodged by the hero. Nevertheless, now for the first time 
 Rustem felt a thrill of fear, so malignantly awful appeared 
 the Deev. 
 
 Nevertheless, summoning all his strength for a mighty 
 effort, in return for the stone the son of Zal dealt the on- 
 coming monster such a powerful stroke with his sword as 
 to cut off one of his feet. Now this so infuriated the Deev 
 that, mad with pain, he sprang at Rustem like a wild ele- 
 phant, and they grappled in a struggle the shock of which 
 caused the very mountains to tremble. And though having 
 but one foot, the monster wrestled hot and sore, tearing 
 from Rustem's body great morsels of flesh, so that all the 
 earth was crimsoned with his blood. Indeed, so terrible 
 was the struggle that the hero said within himself: 
 
 "Verily, if I escape to-day, I shall live forever!" 
 
 Howbeit, in spite of his doubts, Rustem defended himself 
 mightily, inflicting such terrible injuries upon his antag- 
 onist that his mad fury became as that of the raging croco-
 
 Mad with pain, he sprang at Rustem like a wild elephant.
 
 RUSTEM'S SEVEN LABORS 151 
 
 dile; while the mutual havoc wrought caused rivers of sweat 
 and blood to run down from the bodies of both combat- 
 ants. So cool-headed was Rustem, however, and so telling 
 every blow, that the Great White Deev said unto himself: 
 "Alas! Alas! Even if I succeed in delivering myself 
 from out the claws of this sharp-toothed dragon, verily, 
 I greatly fear that never again shall I see Mazinderan!" 
 
 Now this thought nerved anew the arm of the mighty 
 Deev, imparting unto him such furious strength and cour- 
 age that Rustem could not stand before it. Then feared 
 he that his hour was come, but lifting up his heart unto 
 Ormuzd, and putting forth all his strength, suddenly he 
 caught the huge, gasping Deev in his arms, and by a su- 
 preme effort hurled him over the face of the cliff into the 
 yawning chasm below. Yea, and so fearful was the force of 
 the fall that straightway his soul was driven from out his 
 body, the life-blood oozing from his crushed and mangled 
 form, which had made of the valley a plain. Stooping 
 down, therefore, Rustem severed the ugly head, fastening 
 it unto his saddle-bow. Then he also tore out the pulse- 
 less heart which was destined to restore sight unto the 
 King and his helpless warriors, and this being done, 
 quickly he returned unto Mazinderan. 
 So, 
 
 "The champion brought the Demon's heart 
 And squeezed the blood from every part, 
 Which dropped upon the injured sight, 
 Made all things visible and bright; 
 One moment broke that magic gloom, 
 Which seemed more dreadful than the tomb." 
 
 Now thus was the foolish Kaikous saved from perpetual 
 blindness, and as he beheld once more the glories of the
 
 152 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 world, so great was his joy, as well as that of his warriors, 
 that verily they shouted and danced like children, being 
 unable to contain themselves for happiness. Yea, seven 
 days the Shah and his warriors feasted together in thanks- 
 giving, and continually they exalted Rustem, mighty 
 slayer of the Great White Deev. 
 
 But the days of feasting having passed, behold, there 
 came unto the tent of Rustem, Aulad the guide, and he said : 
 
 "O Champion of the World! Verily, I behold upon thy 
 brow the crown of victory; but my body, alas, beareth the 
 marks of thy bonds. Respect, therefore, I pray thee, the 
 promise of reward made unto me. For a hero should ever 
 be bound by his word." 
 
 Then Rustem, smiling, replied unto the suppliant: 
 
 "A faithful guide hast thou proven thyself, O Aulad, 
 well worthy of reward; and verily thou shalt have it. But 
 first, this country must be thoroughly purged of the magi- 
 cians that encumber it, else uneasy will be thy seat upon 
 the throne of Mazinderan, where surely one day I will 
 place thee. Wherefore, be of good cheer!" 
 
 So now it came to pass that Kaikous, after consulting 
 with Rustem, dictated unto the King of Mazinderan, the 
 last of the great magicians, a letter. And he made not 
 many words, but said : 
 
 "O King of Mazinderan! Where is now the great chief 
 Arzang? Where the Great White Deev? Enviest thou 
 them their fate? If not, then it behooveth thee, O King, 
 to appear right speedily before the Great Shah Kaikous, 
 to pay homage and tribute unto him, else shalt thy life be 
 even as theirs." 
 
 Now the King, when he received this communication, 
 was both angry and troubled, for he feared that the sun of
 
 RUSTEM'S SEVEN LABORS 
 
 his glory was about to set. Nevertheless, he concealed his 
 distress from the messenger, showing unto him his vast 
 resources, and sending by him an arrogant answer unto 
 the Shah. And he said: 
 
 "O vain Monarch, famed for thy folly, thinkest thou 
 that I am one unto whom the foolish can say, ' Come down 
 from off thy throne, and do homage unto me'? Verily, 
 my hundred war-elephants say unto thee, nay! Prepare, 
 therefore, for battle, for surely I will bring such destruction 
 upon Iran as shall cause to pale the havoc wrought by 
 Rustem and thy warriors at Mazinderan." 
 
 Thus in his pride wrote the King of the magicians unto 
 Kaikous who, losing no whit of the insolence of the mes- 
 sage, became very angry indeed. As for Rustem, when it 
 was told unto him he was so indignant that every hair 
 upon his head started up like a spear, and he said: 
 
 U O Lord of the World, if it please thee, graciously per- 
 mit thy Pehliva to go forth with yet another writing which 
 shall be as keen as a sword and as threatening as the 
 giant club of Saum the Mighty. Perchance the King may 
 then give ear unto reason." 
 
 So once more the Shah wrote: 
 
 " O King of Mazinderan! Verily, I say unto thee that if 
 within three days thou changest not thy robe of arrogance 
 for one of humility, then truly it shall be changed for thee 
 into a shroud. Yea, and the ghost of the Great White 
 Deev shall call the vultures to feast upon thy severed head, 
 hung from the walls of thine own Mazinderan." 
 
 Alas! when the King of the magicians learned that 
 Kaikous was sending unto him yet another messenger, he 
 bade the flower of his army go forth to meet him. Then 
 Rustem, when he beheld them draw nigh, laid hold of a
 
 154 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 huge tree with great spreading branches that grew by the 
 wayside, and twisting it mightily, tore it from the earth, 
 roots and all, brandishing it in his hands like a javelin. 
 Now all who witnessed this amazing feat of strength were 
 filled with wonder, and Rustem, beholding their awe, 
 laughing, flung the tree among them, saying: 
 
 "Greetings from the great Shah of Iran!" 
 
 Then forth from the great host of the King there stepped 
 one of the giants of Mazinderan, and he begged to grasp 
 the hand of the mighty one in congratulation. So Rustem 
 extended his hand, and the giant pressed it mightily, hop- 
 ing thus to wring off the valorous member. But so feeble 
 was his grasp that the champion could but smile, for well 
 he knew his purpose. When, however, it came his turn, 
 he caught the giant's hand in his with a grip so mighty 
 that all the bones and sinews cracked, and in agony he fell 
 fainting from his horse. 
 
 Now beholding the fate of the giant, quickly one of the 
 nobles hastened unto the King to report what had befallen 
 his champion. Then, mortified and angry, at once the 
 monarch summoned into his presence his most valiant 
 and renowned chieftain, Kalour by name, and directed 
 him to punish, signally, the warrior who had thus presumed 
 to triumph over his heroes. And he said : 
 
 " Go, O Mighty One, and show unto this insolent Per- 
 sian thy prowess. Cover his face with shame, and return 
 not unto me until thou hast retrieved the honor of the 
 magicians." 
 
 Then Kalour, who was the strongest Deev of his tribe, 
 said proudly unto the King: 
 
 "Lord of the World, I go. And verily I will force the 
 tears of pain from out the eyes of this upstart!"
 
 RUSTEM'S SEVEN LABORS 155 
 
 So Kalour rode quickly forth, and when he was come 
 unto Rustem, he stretched unto him his mighty hand, 
 wringing that of the hero with the strength of a dragon. 
 Now the hand turned blue in the cruel grasp, but Rustem 
 neither flinched nor gave sign of pain. But when, pres- 
 ently, he wrung the hand of Kalour, behold, blood issued 
 from the veins, and the nails fell off, dropping unto the 
 ground like withered autumn leaves. 
 
 Alas for Kalour! Bowed with shame, and his sight 
 clouded by bitter tears, slowly he turned and rode back 
 unto the King, showing unto him his hand. And he said: 
 
 "O Glorious King, truly the path of humiliation is not 
 pleasant to tread ! Nevertheless, it seemeth unto me wiser 
 to make peace than to attempt to fight with this elephant- 
 of-war whose strength is such that neither man nor Deev 
 can stand against him. Pay the tribute, therefore, and 
 accept their terms; otherwise, this sharp-toothed dragon 
 will utterly destroy our land and people." 
 
 Now the King was loath to sue for peace. Nevertheless, 
 when the Elephant-bodied arrived at the gates the mon- 
 arch received him graciously. But alas! having read the 
 letter of Kaikous, his face became black with anger, and 
 verily his voice was like rattling thunder as he said unto 
 Rustem: 
 
 "Mad! Stark mad! is this prating monarch; else never 
 would he dare address such words unto me. But verily he 
 forgetteth that if he is master of Iran, I am lord of Mazin- 
 deran, and never will I submit unto so petty a monarch, 
 whose only weapon seemeth to be haughty words. Go, 
 therefore, and say unto thy master that the King of Mazin- 
 deran scorneth to accept peace at the hands of a monarch 
 whose only crown should be the cap and bells of a trick
 
 156 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 elephant. Verily, wax shall it be between us now war to 
 the finish!" 
 
 So Rustem returned with this dire message unto Kai- 
 kous, and soon both monarchs were preparing for battle, 
 the King of Mazinderan gathering about him an army of 
 horsemen and foot-soldiers and war-elephants which 
 caused the earth to groan as they marched forth unto the 
 meeting-place. And behold! when the two armies were 
 drawn up in battle array, immediately there stepped forth 
 from out the ranks of the magicians a champion who 
 challenged the men of Iran to single combat. Huge, black, 
 and ugly, he advanced arrogantly, brandishing a great 
 club in his hands, and he cried in a voice of thunder : 
 
 "Ho, dogs of Iran! Pray, slink not so together, but 
 come forth and show whether there be any prowess among 
 you!" 
 
 Now at first, this insolent challenge remained unan- 
 swered; for the Persians, being unaccustomed to fighting 
 with Deevs, feared the giant magician's power of sorcery. 
 Then Rustem, seeing this, gave unto Rakush the rein, and 
 galloping up to the King, he said : 
 
 "O Lord of the World, graciously permit me to meet 
 this arrogant magician that I may show unto thy army 
 how little availeth the power of sorcery when brought to 
 bear against the strong arm and the stout heart of a true 
 child of Ormuzd." 
 
 So, being given permission, Rustem rode boldly forth, 
 and meeting the champion in full sight of both armies, he 
 thundered forth: 
 
 "O Son of Satan! Behold, thy tomb yawneth at thy 
 feet! For thy folly maketh it necessary that I quickly blot 
 thy name from out the book of the living."
 
 RUSTEM'S SEVEN LABORS 157 
 
 But the champion, brandishing his mighty club, replied 
 fearlessly: 
 
 "Vain Boaster, flee, for behold, my club maketh moth- 
 ers childless!" 
 
 Howbeit, Rustem fled not. Instead, he advanced 
 quickly, shouting in a voice which rivalled that of the Great 
 White Deev: 
 
 "Tremble, thou Son of Perdition! For behold, thou 
 hast now to do with Rustem the Mighty!" 
 
 Now when the magician heard this dread name, at once 
 he turned to flee, for he had no desire to fight the champion 
 of the world. But his cowardice availed him naught, for 
 Rustem, raising his lance, pierced him through and through 
 his coat of mail, lifting him thus from his saddle. Then 
 holding him poised in the air for a moment, even as a bird 
 which a man hath run through with a spit, suddenly he 
 dashed him with contempt lifeless to the ground. And, 
 this being done, slowly he turned, and rode quietly back 
 unto the army, leaving the Deevs thunderstruck at the 
 sight of so much strength and prowess. 
 
 But now Kaikous gave the signal, and there began a 
 battle the like of which hath seldom been fought. For 
 seven long days it lasted, and what with the screams of the 
 Deevs and the shouts of the warriors, the clanging of 
 trumpets and the beating of drums, the groans of the dying 
 and the screams of the elephants-of-war, earth was turned 
 into a pandemonium as hideous as war could make it. 
 But still victory leaned unto neither side. 
 
 Then Kaikous, fearing defeat, on the eighth day clothed 
 himself in the robes of humility and prostrated himself 
 before Ormuzd, beseeching that the kingdom of light 
 might triumph over the kingdom of darkness. And not in
 
 158 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 vain; for behold! when evening was come, the army of 
 Mazinderan was a power no longer to be dreaded. For lo ! 
 Death had waved his magic sceptre over the field, and thou- 
 sands of Deevs lay, as if enchanted, taking their last long 
 sleep. 
 
 And now at last Rustem, who all day had been trying 
 to pierce unto the King of Mazinderan, spied the mon- 
 arch, surrounded by his few remaining chiefs and a great 
 host of war-elephants. Immediately, therefore, he chal- 
 lenged him to single combat. So the King consenting, with 
 a cry like a lion's roar, Rustem charged him with his spear, 
 dealing him such a mighty blow- that at once he fell heavily 
 to the ground. Quick as light, however, he regained his 
 feet, and fiercely they fought together, both with sword 
 and javelin. But presently once more Rustem gained the 
 advantage. Then raising his lance to strike, he cried: 
 
 "Perish, Thou Wicked Magician! for little will thy 
 sorcery help thee now." 
 
 Then it came to pass that Rustem dealt a stroke of tre- 
 mendous power which would certainly have slain the 
 King; but behold, in the twinkling of an eye, he had 
 changed himself, before the eyes of the whole Persian 
 army, into a great mass of rock! And now was it Rustem' s 
 turn to marvel, for never in all his battles with the Deevs 
 had he witnessed the like. But at this moment Kaikous 
 came up, and beholding Rustem, he said : 
 
 "O Glory of the Battle-field, why standest thou thus 
 spellbound, gazing at this rock?" 
 
 Then Rustem, awakening from his astonishment, re- 
 plied unto the King: 
 
 "What! Sawest thou not, O Lord of Iran, the feat of 
 magic but now performed before our eyes? Alas! this
 
 RUSTEM'S SEVEN LABORS 159 
 
 mighty rock is the King of Mazinderan who, fearing 
 the sword of Rustem, hath thus put himself out of our 
 power. But verily he shall not so escape me." 
 
 Now in this predicament Kaikous thought a moment; 
 then he commanded that the rock be taken up and placed 
 before his throne. So the mighty warriors of the King who 
 were most noted for their strength meshed the mass of 
 rock with strong cords, being unable to raise it from the 
 ground, and tried to draw it forward. But even so, not all 
 the combined strength of the heroes could move it a jot. 
 Then Rustem, the elephant-limbed, determined that his 
 prey should not escape him, bent his sturdy back, and 
 grasping the rock in his mighty arms, swung it lightly 
 unto his head, where, poising it easily, without difficulty, 
 he bore it across the plain. There, throwing it down 
 before the King's tent, he cried: 
 
 "O cowardly Magician! Verily, if thou comest not 
 immediately forth, with my mace will I grind this stone 
 into powder, and scatter in unto the four winds!" 
 
 Then the King of Mazinderan, seeing that his trick was 
 useless, quickly made himself visible, frowning as black 
 as a thunder cloud. But Rustem, smiling, led his captive 
 at once unto the Shah, saying unto him: 
 
 "O Lord of Iran! Behold, I bring unto thee this piece 
 of rock whom fear of my mace hath brought unto 
 reason." 
 
 Now the King wasted not many words with the magician, 
 for when he saw how wicked of aspect he was, with the 
 neck and tusks of a wild boar, he knew him to be un- 
 worthy a throne. Therefore, calling unto him the execu- 
 tioner, he bade him slay the evil Deev, cutting his body 
 into a thousand pieces.
 
 160 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 And behold, the magicians being destroyed, Kaikous, 
 after making haste to secure their wealth, which was very 
 great, distributed honors and rewards upon every warrior 
 for his heroic services, giving unto Aulad the throne of 
 Mazinderan. But unto Rustem the Shah gave gifts the 
 like of which you have never dreamed. Now there was 
 gold and jewels, brocades and silks, horses and camels, 
 youths and maidens, perfumes beyond price, and carvings 
 of ivory. And last of all, there was a letter, written upon 
 pages of silk, in ink made of wine and aloes and amber 
 and the black of lamps, naming Rustem the Champion 
 of the World, and giving unto him anew the kingdom of 
 the south. 
 
 But the praise and gifts of the Shah were as nothing 
 unto Rustem in comparison with the welcome home which 
 he received. Now the whole city turned out to meet him, 
 and when he arrived at the palace such an ovation was 
 given him as seldom awaiteth a returning hero. And 
 sweeter than all unto Rustem, was the wonderful love and 
 pride which beamed upon him from the eyes of Silver- 
 crowned Zal as he related unto him the amazing advent- 
 ures of that mavellous march into Mazinderan.
 
 RUSTEM THE PEHLIVA 
 
 BEHOLD, it is chronicled in the Book of the Shahs, 
 that Kaikous and his folly parted them not com- 
 pany, even after his chastening experience at 
 Mazinderan. Consequently, almost immediately after 
 having wrought his seven great labors, once more Rustem 
 was called upon to perform the services of a Pehliva. And 
 of this you shall hear. 
 
 Now it came to pass that Kaikous, appropriating unto 
 himself the glory which resulted from the marvellous con- 
 quest of Mazinderan, became so inflated with pride that 
 the day came when he found his capital too small for him. 
 Therefore, he decided to bless the eyes of his people by a 
 triumphal journey through his dominions. So with a 
 magnificent train of warriors, nobles, and slaves, and 
 with the music of trumpets and cymbals and drums, he 
 travelled through the land. And behold! wherever the 
 great Shah passed, men did homage unto him. For, verily, 
 the lamb cannot wage battle with the lion. 
 
 But since in the Book of Fate it is written that not even 
 unto a gorgeous Eastern potentate, with the world for his 
 footstool, can life remain forever one long, bright fete day, 
 so soon there sprang forth thorns in the Shah's fair garden 
 of roses. For lo! the King of Hamaveran, desiring to 
 throw off the yoke of Persia, took this opportunity to stir 
 up a powerful revolt in Syria, which suddenly brought 
 unto an end the vainglorious parade of the Shah. 
 161
 
 162 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Returning unto his capital, therefore, Kaikous quickly 
 mustered his army, leading them forth against the rebels, 
 who, after an obstinate resistance, were overpowered and 
 obliged to ask for quarter. Now foremost in laying down 
 his arms, and asking pardon of the Shah, was the King of 
 Hamaveran, unto whom Kaikous granted it joyously. For 
 behold! it had become known unto him that behind his 
 curtains this King had hidden a daughter of rare loveli- 
 ness. As a condition of peace, therefore, the Shah de- 
 manded this Moon of Beauty for his wife. 
 
 Alas! when the King of Hamaveran learned of the desire 
 of the Shah, his heart was filled with bitterness, and he 
 murmured exceedingly that Kaikous, who had the world 
 at his feet, should have the power to take from him his one 
 treasure. Nevertheless, he called before him Sudaveh, 
 his fair daughter, and unburdening his heart, bade her 
 counsel him how he should reply unto the Lord of the 
 World, who desired her for his wife. And he said: 
 
 "Fair Pomegranate Flower, well thou knowest that thou 
 art my heart's solace and delight, since I have but thee. 
 In the garden of the Shah, however, bloom many fair 
 flowers. There thou wilt be but one, while here thou hast 
 no rival. Now losing thee, I lose the light of my eyes. 
 Yet how can I stand against the great King of Kings?" 
 
 Now unto this touching appeal, Sudaveh, who was am- 
 bitious, and unto whom the thou^ ht of becoming the queen 
 of the most powerful sovereign it the world was not at all 
 unpleasant, replied coldly: 
 
 "If there be no remedy, O my father, why not smile in 
 the face of destiny?" 
 
 But alas! though the King assented to what he now 
 saw were the wishes of his daughter, he could not smile,
 
 RUSTEM THE PEHLIVA 163 
 
 for his heart was smitten with sorrow. Nevertheless, an 
 alliance was soon concluded according to the forms of the 
 land, and after seven days of feasting, Sudaveh was sent 
 unto the tents of the Shah, robed in garbs of splendor, and 
 accompanied by a magnificent train. Now the Princess 
 was borne upon a litter, and was attended by six hundred 
 slaves, while as to her dowry it required two thousand 
 horses and camels to carry it. 
 
 So went Sudaveh unto the King, and as she descended 
 from her litter, glowing with beauty, Kaikous, beholding 
 her, was struck dumb with admiration and rapture. And 
 so impatient was he to possess this rare loveliness, that the 
 marriage rites were performed at once, after which he 
 raised Sudaveh unto the throne as his Queen. Then were 
 they glad in each other, and wist not that sorrow knocked 
 at the door. 
 
 But though this royal bridal pair were happy, the King 
 of Hamaveran, brooding day by day over his wrongs in 
 his lonely palace, became more and more miserable, until 
 finally he determined to try to regain his daughter unto 
 himself, since thus only would there' be for him any joy in 
 living. And since he knew that only by stratagem could 
 he hope to accomplish his design, behold, when Sudaveh 
 had been gone but seven days, the King sent forth an 
 invitation unto his new son-in-law, entreating him to 
 make glad the heart of his father by feasting within his 
 gates. 
 
 Now when Sudaveh was informed of this message, at 
 once she urged her royal bridegroom to decline the invi- 
 tation, for she divined that her father meant no good by 
 the proposal. But Kaikous, who on account of his easy 
 victory had formed a poor opinion of the courage of the
 
 164 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Syrians, would not give ear unto the warnings and coun- 
 sels of Sudaveh, for his soul loved feasting and homage, 
 and he did not dream that the King would dare, anew, to 
 attack the Persians. 
 
 Wherefore, the King and his nobles rode gaily forth 
 unto the court of Hamaveran, where they were received 
 most graciously. And verily the heart of Kaikous was 
 glad, for the banquet was a royal one, and behold, they 
 feasted and made merry without ceasing for many days. 
 And not only did they banquet, but in his desire to do 
 honor unto his guest, the King caused priceless gifts to be 
 rained down continuously upon Kaikous, flattering him 
 with sweet words, and cozening his vanity. Nor was his 
 generosity less great unto the nobles, for unto them also 
 he gave gifts, praising their courage and darkening their 
 wits with sweet wine. 
 
 But when at last the wily King saw that all suspicion 
 and distrust had been lulled to sleep by the bounteousness 
 of his hospitality, then, like a flash of light out of a clear 
 sky, came the reckoning. For suddenly, as Kaikous 
 reached forth his hands to grasp yet richer gifts, in the 
 twinkling of an eye, he and his chief warriors were seized 
 from behind, bound with strong chains, and thrown into 
 the dark dungeon of a fortress, whose head touched the 
 sky and whose foot was planted in the ocean, there to 
 repent at leisure this second disastrous plunge into folly. 
 
 And now was the King of Hamaveran glad as, having 
 seen his captives safely hidden away in the fortress, he at 
 once sent forth a strong force of warriors unto the camp 
 of Kaikous, charging them, with the speed of the swift 
 dromedary, to return his heart's delight unto his arms. 
 But alas for the King's hopes! For beholding the ap-
 
 RUSTEM THE PEHLIVA 165 
 
 proach of the warriors, and the veiled women who accom- 
 panied them, at once Sudaveh surmised what had hap- 
 pened, and so great was her distress that she tore her hair 
 in anguish, crying aloud against the treachery of her 
 father. Yea, and not only that, for when she was led into 
 his presence, she reproached him bitterly, swearing that 
 not even he should part her from her lord, though the path 
 to him led but unto a tomb. 
 
 Now as the King listened unto the scathing words of 
 his daughter, he shed bitter tears of disappointment and 
 anger. Then, furious that she should prefer the glory of 
 the Shah to the love of a father who lived but to serve her, 
 angrily he drove her from his presence, commanding that 
 she be placed in the same prison as her foolish lord. But 
 this distressed not Sudaveh, who went to the dungeon 
 with a light heart, for she loved her husband, and seated 
 by his side, she served and comforted him, thus lightening 
 the weight of his captivity. 
 
 But alas for Iran! For once more the King's folly left 
 an empty throne, which immediately attracted the ava- 
 ricious eyes of her foes. And of these, not only was there 
 the angry King of Hamaveran, but also Afrasiab who, 
 hearing that Kaikous was once more paying the penalty of 
 his follies by being enchained in a Syrian dungeon, straight- 
 way forgot hunger and sleep in his fierce desire to be first 
 upon the ground. Bursting over the borders, therefore, 
 with an immense Tartar horde at his back, he defeated 
 the Syrians, and took possession of the land, men, women, 
 and children falling into bondage at his hands. Then 
 Iran, the kingdom of light, became under his sway, the 
 kingdom of darkness, and terror and distress reigned 
 throughout the land.
 
 166 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 And now as ever, in their troubles, did the Persians 
 appeal for counsel and aid unto the great house at Seistan; 
 and not in vain. For, though Rustem was angered at the 
 Shah whose folly had thus once again endangered the 
 throne, yet was he also grieved for the vanished glory of 
 Iran and for the distress of the people. So, for his coun- 
 try's sake, and because of the oath which his grandsire, 
 Saum the hero, sware unto Feridoun, that he and his 
 house would support and uphold the glory of the Shahs 
 forever, he put aside his anger, and forthwith sent a secret 
 messenger, a man subtle and wise, unto Kaikous, bidding 
 him be of good cheer, since his Pehliva would surely de- 
 liver him from out the claws of the Syrian lion. 
 
 But in addition to this, Rustem sent forth yet another 
 messenger unto the King of Hamaveran, summoning him 
 to yield up the royal prisoner he had won by treachery, 
 or prepare for the destruction that awaited him when 
 Rustem the Mighty should appear at the head of an invin- 
 cible host, to wreak vengeance upon his head. Now this 
 threat troubled the King of Hamaveran, for he knew 
 somewhat of Rustem' s power. Nevertheless, he sent back 
 reply that never again should Kaikous step forth from his 
 dungeon. Yea, and he threatened Rustem with the same 
 fate, if he came forth against him, which answer caused 
 Rustem to smile and say: 
 
 "Verily, either this King is in his dotage, or else the 
 Evil One hath filled his head with smoke. On, my men! 
 On to Hamaveran!" 
 
 So the army of Seistan set forth, and behold, so mighty 
 of mien was Rustem, with his strong arms and his lion's 
 chest, his great mace and his redoubtable charger, that 
 when the army of Hamaveran caught sight of him, lo,
 
 RUSTEM THE PEHLIVA 167 
 
 their hearts quickly departed from out their bodies, and 
 they fled from before his face in terror, returning unto the 
 King without having struck a blow. 
 
 Then was the King filled with dismay, and in his terror 
 of defeat, at once he sent swift runners unto his neighbors, 
 the Kings of Egypt and Berber, soliciting their aid which 
 being gladly given, it came to pass that three kings and 
 their immense armies were drawn up against the power 
 and resources of one man. Indeed so great was the com- 
 bined forces that they stretched for two leagues in length, 
 and you would have said that the handful of Rustem had 
 no chance against them. 
 
 But the hero was not dismayed. On the contrary, his 
 soul was full of courage, the great numbers dismaying him 
 not, for he said: 
 
 "What mattereth it even though there be a hundred 
 thousand men pitted against us? With Heaven our 
 friend, soon will the foe be mingled with the dust." 
 
 Now having thus inspired his men, Rustem caused the 
 trumpets to sound, and with a great shout he fell upon 
 the armies of the Kings, like unto a flame that darteth 
 hungrily, driven by a fierce wind. And verily so great was 
 the havoc wrought by Rakush and his master that the 
 ground quickly became a crimson stream, while everywhere 
 rolled horrid heads, severed from the bodies of the enemy. 
 
 But of all the chiefs, the King of Hamaveran was the 
 first to fall back with his legions before the sword of Rus- 
 tem. Quickly, however, the King of Berber advanced to 
 fill his place, for he was ashamed of his colleague's cow- 
 ardice. But alas! receiving a slight blow from Rustem' s 
 mighty hand, terrified, he turned to flee, hoping thus to 
 escape his fury. But in vain, for quickly throwing his
 
 168 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 noose, the champion caught and dragged him from his 
 horse, making him prisoner. And this being accomplished, 
 it now became the turn of the King of Egypt to feel the 
 power of Rustem. Before his charge like that of an 
 angry dragon down went this last of the Kings, and with 
 him forty of his principal chiefs, for verily against such 
 battle fury only the lion-hearted could hope to stand. 
 
 So ended this day of ill-fortune for the King of Hama- 
 veran, who beholding at sunset the overthrow of his 
 allies, and all the horrible carnage wrought by the cham- 
 pion, knew that as well might the lamb contend with the 
 lion as he with this sharp-fanged dragon-of-war. Quickly, 
 therefore, he sent a swift messenger unto the great Pehliva, 
 soliciting a suspension of the fight, and offering to deliver 
 up Kaikous, and all the men and treasure that were his, 
 if clemency were shown him. 
 
 Now to this acknowledgment of defeat, Rustem replied : 
 
 " Kaikous to liberty restore, 
 With all his chiefs, I ask no more; 
 For him alone I conquering came; 
 Than him no other prize I claim." 
 
 So Kaikous was liberated from his prison, and Sudaveh 
 with him, together with all the illustrious heroes impris- 
 oned with them in the mountain fortress. And so great 
 was their joy that continually they sang the praises of 
 Rustem, the King's Pehliva, who so quickly had caused 
 light to shine upon a dark place and hope to spring up 
 where despair had been. And not alone were the Persians 
 in extolling their hero, for behold! the three Kings were 
 so impressed with the mighty prowess of Rustem that 
 gladly they sware a new allegiance unto the Shah, march-
 
 RUSTEM THE PEHLIVA 169 
 
 ing with the army upon its return journey into Iran, in 
 order to go out against Afrasiab. 
 
 And the army, thus made strong, behold, when the 
 Shah was come safe home again unto his land, he sent 
 a message unto Afrasiab, commanding him to quit the 
 country he had so unjustly invaded. Yea, and he twitted 
 the King upon his previous adventure with Rustem, say- 
 ing unto him: 
 
 "Hast thou forgotten Rustem's power, 
 When thou wert in that perilous hour 
 By him o'erthrown ? Thy girdle broke, 
 Or thou hadst felt the conqueror's yoke. 
 Thy crowding warriors proved thy shield, 
 They saved and dragged thee from the field; 
 By them unrescued then, wouldst thou 
 Have lived to boast thy prowess now?" 
 
 Alas! thus reminded of past humiliations, Afrasiab re- 
 plied scathingly unto the King, and he said: 
 
 "O thou, whose folly hath become a proverb, verily 
 the words which thou hast written are not becoming unto 
 a monarch such as thou, who didst covet Mazinderan, and 
 whose lightness of head hath twice endangered thy life and 
 throne. But truly thou doest well to boast of thy Pehliva, 
 since without the Elephant-limbed the boasted power of 
 Kaikous would cause little alarm unto his foes. As for 
 Rustem, Afrasiab feareth him not, neither that the sceptre 
 of Iran will be wrested from his grasp, for behold! the 
 great Pehliva hath no time to fight with heroes, being fully 
 employed in extricating his glorious sovereign, the mighty 
 Kaikous, from the predicaments into which his folly ever 
 leadeth him."
 
 170 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Now the Shah's reply unto this insolent message was 
 an instant call to war. And, as it had been with the Syri- 
 ans, so now was it with this new foe, for the havoc wrought 
 by Rustem in his battle fury caused such terror and con- 
 sternation that all the Tartar chiefs fled before him in 
 dismay upon seeing which, the spirit of Afrasiab boiled 
 over like unto new wine. Riding along the lines, therefore, 
 he tried to rally his chiefs for yet another charge by fair 
 'promises, saying unto them: 
 
 " O my brave Tartars, whosoever shall deliver into my 
 hands, alive, Rustem the Pehliva, him will I reward with 
 a kingdom and an umbrella. Yea, and the hand of my 
 daughter will I also bestow upon him, and he shall sit upon 
 a throne of splendor!" 
 
 So, inspired by these alluring promises, once more the 
 men of Turan girded themselves for resistance. But alas! 
 it availed them naught, for soon Rustem watered the 
 earth with their blood. Then Afrasiab, beholding how 
 the breath of this fierce dragon-of-war snuffed out the life 
 of his heroes, himself dashed forward to cope with the 
 champion. But even his bravery was unavailing, and 
 soon he was glad to retreat, the remnant of his army fol- 
 lowing forlornly after him, leaving Rustem in full posses- 
 sion of the field. 
 
 Then was the Shah glad, and gave thanks unto his 
 Pehliva, through whose prowess once more he was safely 
 seated upon the throne of light. And, turning his back 
 upon folly, for many moons he busied himself as a builder, 
 erecting mighty towers and palaces, so that the whole land 
 was made fair at his hands. 
 
 But alas! in the midst of his useful activities, one day 
 there appeared before Kaikous a beautiful youth about
 
 RUSTEM THE PEHLIVA 171 
 
 whose head was twined a wreath of roses. And behold! 
 after presenting unto the Lord of the World the fair flow- 
 ers, and extolling the glory of his achievements, the youth, 
 concluding, said: 
 
 "O Monarch of the earth and sea, 
 Thou art great as king can be, 
 Boundless in thy majesty; 
 What is all this earth to thee, 
 
 All beneath the sky? 
 Peris, mortals, demons, hear 
 Thy commanding voice with fear; 
 Thou art lord of all things here, 
 
 But thou canst not fly! 
 
 "That remains for thee; to know 
 Things above, as things below, 
 
 How the planets roll; 
 How the sun his light displays, 
 How the moon darts forth her rays; 
 How the nights succeed the days; 
 What the secret cause betrays, 
 
 And who directs the whole!" 
 
 Now when Kaikous heard these words of guile, imme- 
 diately his mind became filled with smoke, even as Iblis 
 had designed, and forgetting that it is not given unto man 
 to mount unto the skies, from this time forth he pondered 
 without ceasing how, without wings, he might ascend unto 
 the stars to inquire into their secrets. And finally, in his 
 perplexity, he consulted his astrologers, who, after much 
 thought, suggested a possible way of accomplishing his 
 desires. 
 
 So it came to pass that presently an eagle's nest was 
 robbed of its young, the eaglets being reared with great 
 care, until they became large and strong of wing. Then
 
 172 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 a framework of aloe-wood was prepared, at each of the 
 four corners of which was fixed, perpendicularly, a javelin, 
 surmounted upon the point with the flesh of a goat. And 
 this being done, the four young eagles, who longed for the 
 sun, were bound unto the corners of this cunningly-devised 
 chariot, and Kaikous, with great pomp, seated himself in 
 the midst thereof, a goblet of wine in his hand, while all the 
 people shouted, "Bah! Bah!" in admiration. 
 
 And behold ! the eagles, excited by the smell of the flesh 
 so pleasing unto them, desired after it exceedingly, being 
 hungry, so, with a mighty flapping of wings, away they flew 
 upward, bearing the aloe-wood chariot and the graciously- 
 smiling Kaikous up, far up, into the glorious blue, away 
 from the sight of his wondering subjects. But alas for the 
 eagles! for though they struggled sore, the meat was 
 always just beyond their grasp. Nevertheless, being con- 
 tinually urged to new effort by the whip of hunger, on 
 they swept, ascending higher and higher into the clouds, 
 and conveying the astonished King far beyond the borders 
 of Iran. 
 
 But though the Shah now became filled with terror, he 
 knew not how to guide his novel steeds, and so, breathless, 
 he sat, all desire for new worlds to conquer forever quenched 
 in his quaking breast. And finally the climax came, for, 
 after long and fruitless exertions, the strength of the eagles 
 being spent, they ceased to struggle. And lo! as they 
 rested on quiet wing, down from the sky, like a pricked 
 balloon, tumbled the chariot of the glorious Kaikous, and 
 great was the shock thereof as it kissed the earth. 
 
 And now, indeed, was the plight of the presumptuous 
 Shah a sorry one, for, battered and bruised, he awoke from 
 unconsciousness to find that the eagles had borne him unto
 
 And finally, in his perplexity, he consulted his astrologers.
 
 RUSTEM THE PEHLIVA 173 
 
 the desert of Cathay, where there was no man to succor him 
 and no tender hands to minister unto his needs. So he 
 suffered hunger and thirst, loneliness and despair; yea, 
 and mortification of soul, that yet again in his folly he had 
 become a laughing-stock unto his enemies and a source 
 of shame unto Iran. Then in his trouble he prayed unto 
 Ormuzd, confessing himself unworthy his throne and 
 people, and continually for many days he watered the desert 
 with his tears of penitence. 
 
 Meanwhile, when the news of this new calamity in 
 which Kaikous had wantonly involved himself was made 
 known unto Rustem, at once he set out with an army to 
 seek him, but he was angry and shamed in his soul. So 
 when the Shah was brought safely back, indignantly he 
 upbraided him, sparing neither words nor reproaches. 
 And he said: 
 
 " Verily, never hath the world seen the like of Kaikous 
 for foolishness! One would say, from his actions, that his 
 head was void of all save wind, and that a mad-house were 
 fitter for his occupancy than a throne. Now all her days 
 will it be a reproach unto Iran that a King once sat upon 
 her throne, so puffed up with vanity and pride that in his 
 folly he mounted into the sky, thinking to visit the sun 
 and moon and stars, thus wresting from the heavens the 
 secrets of the Almighty. Truly such mad adventures are 
 unworthy the great King of Kings, whose forefathers ruled 
 so gloriously and added such lustre unto the crown of 
 Iran!" 
 
 And behold! of all the faithful service rendered unto 
 the great Shah by his loyal Pehliva, these scathing words 
 were far from the least. For, listening unto them with 
 chastened spirit, the vanity of Kaikous all evaporated,
 
 174 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 leaving him humble and ashamed. Yea, so true was his 
 penitence that when Rustem left him, for forty days and 
 nights did he lie in the dust before God, shut away from 
 the eyes of men. And when finally he seated himself once 
 more upon the throne of light, verily he ruled the land 
 with wisdom, liberality, and justice, for Kaikous and his 
 folly had parted company.
 
 RUSTEM'S ROMANCE 
 
 Listen, my children, and you shall hear, 
 Of the wondrous love of a maiden dear, 
 For a mighty warrior, the pride of his day, 
 Who loved, and married, and rode away, 
 For this is the romance of Rustem. 
 
 BEHOLD, it is written, that never in the Garden of 
 Kings bloomed there a fairer flower than Tamineh, 
 only Princess of the house of Samengan. Fresh 
 and sweet as a nosegay of lilies and pinks, this beauteous 
 pomegranate flower, with her laughing dark eyes, her blue- 
 black curls, and her soft, velvety voice was indeed a joy to 
 behold, and many there were who loved her. 
 
 But alas! the Princess was wilful, as well as fair, and 
 so, though she had many suitors from far and near, she 
 was attracted by none of them. Forlo! her eye was fixed 
 and her heart was set upon a bright, particular star, blaz- 
 ing away with more than heavenly splendor, in far, far-off 
 Persia. So, when her father would have married her unto 
 this or that great Prince, half laughing, half earnest, she 
 would say: 
 
 "Nay, nay, my father! One man only will I marry, 
 and that is Rustem, the hero whose mighty prowess is ex- 
 ceeded only by his grandeur of soul." 
 
 Now as it happened, the King of Samengan was feuda- 
 tory unto Afrasiab, the deadly enemy of Iran, and though 
 the two countries were now at peace, the probability that 
 175
 
 176 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Rustem, the great Persian Pehliva, would ever visit the 
 small kingdom of Samengan, or even so much as hear of 
 the beautiful Tartar Princess, seemed most unlikely; 
 therefore, when Tamineh thus spoke of Rustem, the King 
 chided, saying unto her: 
 
 "Foolish child! Verily, as well mightst thou cry for the 
 moon as to set thy heart upon so distant and so bright a 
 star. For lo! the southern palm stretcheth forth not its 
 arms unto the northern pine; neither doth the lion mate 
 with the gazelle. Cast, therefore, O Pearl of my Heart, 
 this hero from thy thoughts, since only grief and pain can 
 it bring unto thee, forever to dream of the unattainable." 
 
 But this Tamineh could not do, for Rustem had become 
 a part of her life, both waking and dreaming, as you shall 
 hear. For it happened that the Princess had for her nurse 
 a Persian woman, Fatima by name, who loved nothing so 
 well as to talk of the great champion of her country, so that 
 from childhood up had the Tartar maiden heard the won- 
 der tales of her hero. Yea, the most beautiful part of every 
 day unto her, as far back as she could remember, was the 
 twilight hour, when, seated at her nurse's feet, her head 
 pillowed in her soft lap, for hours she would sit spell- 
 bound, listening eagerly unto Fatima as she related the 
 mighty deeds of Rustem : How, when only eight years old, 
 he slew the King's white elephant; of the capture of the 
 magic fortress; of his wonderful march into Mazinderan; 
 of Rakush; and of all his daring deeds as a warrior. 
 
 And behold! Fatima had also other things to relate 
 of her hero: tales illustrating his beautiful tenderness, 
 loyalty, and greatness of soul. And as the Princess 
 grew older, these stories appealed more to her than the 
 wonder tales or the deeds of prowess; but all was listened
 
 RUSTEM'S ROMANCE 177 
 
 to with eagerness and delight by the infatuated Tamineh, 
 who, thus fed upon romance, grew into a tall, beautiful 
 maiden with never a thought for any man save Rustem 
 the Mighty. 
 
 But though it seemed most unlikely that the Princess 
 would ever behold her hero, lo! it was written in the stars 
 to the contrary. And that which is written, shall it not 
 surely come to pass? So, at least, believe the Persians, 
 and so happened it unto Rustem and Tamineh. 
 
 For presently it came to pass that upon a certain morn- 
 ing Rustem, in far-away Persia, awoke from his slumbers 
 unrefreshed, after a restless night of dreaming. Conclud- 
 ing, therefore, that his muscles were in need of exercise, 
 there being no enemies to fight, the hero resolved to go off 
 upon a long hunting trip. So, filling his quiver with arrows, 
 he saddled Rakush, and set out for the beautiful wilds that 
 border upon Turan. 
 
 Now, arrived at the hunting-ground, Rustem found 
 good sport, for the plain was covered with great herds of 
 wild asses that roamed at will from the sullen grandeur of 
 the uplands to the fairer vales below. Setting spurs to 
 Rakush, therefore, gaily the hero pursued them through 
 wood and glen, and often did his quivering darts pierce 
 the glossy skin of the dangerous game. Yea, and oft too, 
 did his lengthy lasso unfurl, ring upon ring, snaring the 
 wily beasts for his club. So long he hunted, until finally, 
 night drawing on, he said unto Rakush: 
 
 "Enough, My Beauty, enough! for to-morrow will be 
 another day." 
 
 So, his hunting done, straightway the hero proceeded to 
 light a great fire. Then, making a young tree serve as a 
 spit, he ran it through the body of a nice fat gor, hung it
 
 178 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 over the fire, and roasted it for his meal. And behold, 
 being deliciously done, hungrily he tore it joint from joint, 
 ate of it his fill, and broke the bones for the marrow. 
 Then, tired with his long day's sport, the weary hunter 
 sought the shade of a thicket, and lay down to sleep, 
 fanned by the plumes of the glorious palms above his head, 
 and lulled to rest by the cooing doves and sunbirds that 
 fluttered through their swinging crowns. Yea, and 
 watched over by faithful Rakush who wandered never far 
 from his sleeping master. 
 
 Now while Rustem peacefully slept, the hand of Fate 
 was busy weaving into the pattern of his life some new 
 threads. For, on this eventful day, a traveller on his way 
 to Samengan had beheld the Mighty One hunting. So it 
 came to pass that having arrived at the court, he told the 
 astonishing news, which spread until it reached the ears 
 of Fatima, who at once rushed to inform her young mis- 
 tress. Now at first, Tamineh, upon hearing this story, 
 was incredulous, but having summoned the traveller into 
 her presence, her doubts were soon dispelled, for he 
 said: 
 
 "Gracious Princess! Behold, as I crossed the great salt 
 plains upon the border of the kingdom this day, I encoun- 
 tered a solitary huntsman, mounted upon a magnificent 
 charger, and towering in his saddle like a giant among 
 men. More like unto a god than mortal man, surely this 
 could have been no other than Rustem, the Champion of 
 the World, and his famous war-horse Rakush; for verily 
 there exist not two such mighty heroes in the world! 
 of that I am certain." 
 
 Thus spake the traveller, and being dismissed, Fatima, 
 all excitement, cried eagerly unto her mistress:
 
 RUSTEM'S ROMANCE 179 
 
 "O Rose of the World, rejoice! for behold, thy hero 
 draweth near, and yet thine eyes may be gladdened by his 
 coming ! For surely no man could see the Mighty Rustem 
 and mistake him for another, since as the traveller sayeth, 
 in all the world there are no two such; nay, nor methinks 
 in heaven either!" 
 
 Now hearing these words, the heart of Tamineh leaped 
 and rejoiced like unto that of a gay singing-bird, as, em- 
 bracing Fatima, she exclaimed joyously, her soft, dark 
 eyes shining like stars: 
 
 " Fatima, Old Dragon! Listen and admire. For, be- 
 hold, thy Bright Pomegranate Flower hath determined 
 to gaze upon this glorious Persian Sun, and if it withereth 
 all her gay petals! and the stars decree that thou must 
 help her." 
 
 But Fatima, hearing these words, quickly repented of 
 her impetuosity, for right well she knew the wilfulness of 
 her mistress, and she feared unto what it might lead. 
 Therefore she replied unto Tamineh: 
 
 "Pearl of my Heart! be not foolish; for how is it possi- 
 ble for thee to accomplish the desire of thy heart? The 
 great Rustem is travelling north, and it is not probable, 
 either that he will visit our Court, or delay his journey. 
 How then canst thou hope to see him?" 
 
 Now thus questioned, for a time Tamineh was silent. 
 But, being a young woman of some resource, she was not 
 to be dismayed by obstacles which might have deterred 
 smaller souls, for had she not all her life been hoping 
 against hope for just this opportunity? And now that it 
 had come, was she to sit quietly down, allowing it to pass 
 by unimproved? Verily, nay! For some minutes, how- 
 ever, the Princess did sit down, thinking hard. But pres-
 
 180 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 ently, springing gaily to her feet, a mischievous light 
 sparkling and dancing in her wonderful dark eyes, she 
 cried : 
 
 "Kiss me, Fatima, kiss me! for verily thou beholdest 
 before thee the happiest Princess in the whole, wide world. 
 Soon I shall see, and perhaps win the hero of my dreams, 
 and thou, too, methinks will rejoice once more to behold 
 thy country's champion. Now let not thine eyes pop out 
 of thy head, Old Dragon; neither be thou dismayed, for 
 I shall not go forth unto the great Rustem, but he shall 
 come unto me. For, look you! the plan is quite simple, 
 since Jwe have only to take captive Rakush, when the 
 hero will come quickly enough to recover his glorious 
 steed." 
 
 Alas! the proposition of stealing Rakush was unto 
 Fatima as daring and awful an idea as the thought of 
 stealing Rustem himself, but realizing that it was useless 
 to oppose her young mistress, she replied not, save by a 
 deep groan. 
 
 Ignoring the groan, however, the Princess continued : 
 
 "Listen now, my dear old Fatima, for verily the plot 
 is a famous one! But it must be carried out to-night, be- 
 fore Rustem hath departed, else will it be too late. Now 
 methinks that not by strength but by stratagem must 
 Rakush the terrible be captured. Therefore, when dark- 
 ness covereth the land to-night, we will send forth six wily 
 herdsmen, mounted upon light, swift horses, spurring them 
 on to the enterprise by offering them princely rewards if 
 successful. They must be, of course, men expert with the 
 lasso, and they must entrap, without harming, Rakush 
 while Rustem sleeps, returning with him unto the royal 
 stables before dawn."
 
 RUSTEM'S ROMANCE 181 
 
 Thus elaborated Tamineh her plan unto Fatima, who, 
 relieved that it threatened no danger to the Princess, 
 nevertheless protested loudly, tearing her hair and clothes, 
 weeping and lamenting bitterly. But of course she ended 
 by doing the will of her mistress, as did also the men 
 chosen, for well they knew that any service faithfully per- 
 formed would be liberally rewarded by the Princess 
 Tamineh. 
 
 Meanwhile, little dreamed the mighty Rustem, as he 
 soundly slept on his bed of moss that night, after his famous 
 day's hunting, of the filmy web that this bright-eyed Prin- 
 cess was securely weaving about him. Yea, and even intel- 
 ligent Rakush, though he slept not, little suspected that for 
 long seven dark figures had stealthily stalked him through 
 the night. For the Tartar warriors who followed him, 
 knowing quite well that no easy task was involved in carry- 
 ing out the commands of their Princess, proceeded most 
 cautiously. 
 
 Finally, however, advancing stealthily, the seven clever 
 ones tried to take their prize, unawares, by throwing a 
 lasso over his head. But in vain; for the noise of the un- 
 coiling lariat piercing unto the ear of Rakush, dexterously 
 he avoided the cruel cord, standing with ears alert and 
 pawing feet of anger. Now for a second thus he stood; 
 then having located his enemy, like a lion he sprang upon 
 them, striking two of the foe dead with a single stroke of 
 his forefeet, and savagely biting off the head of a third. 
 Thus three of the company were safely disposed of, and 
 the brave Rakush was not yet taken. Nor would he have 
 been; for never yet had man or Demon entrapped or over- 
 come the glorious steed; but for the sake of the beautiful 
 Princess, the stars decreed it. So presently, after a hard
 
 182 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 fight, the four succeeded in entangling him with their 
 lassos, and thus it came to pass that just before the day 
 dawned the proud war-horse of Rustem was led, gagged 
 and blindfolded, into the stables of the King of Samengan. 
 
 And behold, when the Princess Tamineh from her bal- 
 cony at last beheld the famous war-horse loom up along 
 the shadowy road, so great was her joy that, regardless of 
 the fact that Rakush was tossing his head, stamping his 
 hoofs, and snorting protests like an angry dragon, she 
 would have flown down to welcome him with soft caress, 
 had not the faithful Fatima urged that such a step might 
 undo all that had been accomplished. 
 
 But though the dawn brought joy unto Tamineh, its 
 message unto Rustem was that of sorrow. For behold! 
 when he called unto Rakush no answering neigh rang out 
 the glad reply. Thinking, however, that his steed had 
 perhaps but strayed beyond the sound of his first gentle 
 call, the hero quickly came out into the open, calling unto 
 Rakush in a voice of thunder; but still there came no 
 answer. Then was the heart of the Mighty One troubled, 
 for well he knew that his faithful steed had not willingly 
 strayed away. Now in his dismay he said unto himself: 
 
 "What a dilemma! for now must I go on foot, carrying 
 my quiver and my great club, this heavy helmet and coat 
 of mail, and my life-destroying sword. And seeing me 
 thus, how the Tartars will scoff, saying among themselves: 
 'Behold the Mighty Rustem! While he slept, some one 
 must have stolen his horse!' Now thus shall I be put to 
 shame before my enemies, that which never yet hath hap- 
 pened unto Rustem." 
 
 Thus communing with himself, busily the hero searched 
 for some trace of his missing steed, and not in vain.
 
 RUSTEM'S ROMANCE 183 
 
 for at last he detected the footprints of a scuffle down 
 by the stream that murmured at the foot of the shady 
 glen. Here great hoof-marks pointed out the field of 
 battle, the ground being ploughed up upon all sides, indi- 
 cating how desperately the mighty steed had resisted his 
 wily captors. Then farther on could be traced the steps 
 of Rakush between two other horses, closely followed by 
 a third, which plainly said unto Rustem that his faithful 
 companion had been stolen. 
 
 And now, boiling over with rage and sorrow, the heart 
 of Rustem beat to but one refrain: Vengeance! Vengeance 
 upon the captors of Rakush! Pausing not, however, 
 quickly he followed the traces of his horse's hoofs, and lo! 
 they led him unto the gates of Samengan. Then Rustem, 
 perceiving whither the footprints led, sware unto Heaven 
 a great oath, and he said: 
 
 " By the sun and moon and stars, I swear that if aught 
 of harm hath come unto Rakush through this King or his 
 people, verily the thief shall pay for it with his head!" 
 
 Meanwhile, knowing naught of the capture of Rakush, as 
 Rustem approached the shining turrets of the city, great 
 was the astonishment of the King and those about him 
 when they beheld the manner of his coming. Nevertheless, 
 they hurried forth to greet their distinguished guest, the 
 King saying unto him: 
 
 "O glorious Pehliva, never hath Samengan been so 
 honored in a guest, and lo! her King sayeth unto thee, 
 'Welcome.' But how happeneth it that the mighty Rustem 
 cometh unto us afoot and unattended? If misfortune 
 hath befallen, behold! we are all at thy service!" 
 
 But unto this courteous greeting Rustem replied coldly, 
 relating briefly unto the King all that had come to pass.
 
 184 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Then becoming more angry as he talked, once more the 
 hero sware that many heads should quit their trunks if 
 his charger were not returned unto him right speedily, 
 void of harm. 
 
 Then the King, seeing that Rustem was beside himself 
 with anger, spake words of comfort unto the hero, for he 
 knew how dear unto him was his glorious steed. And he said : 
 
 "O Hero of Heroes! Be not so disturbed in thy spirit, 
 for verily anger profiteth nothing. It is by charming that 
 one lureth the serpent from hie hole. As for Rakush, 
 
 If still within the limits of my reign, 
 The well-known courser shall be thine again. 
 For Rakush never can remain concealed 
 No more than Rustem on the battle-field. 
 
 "Take courage, therefore, and be of good cheer, for soon 
 thy glorious other self shall be restored unto thee, and all 
 will be well. As for the thief, when detected he shall be 
 placed in thy hands, to slay or to spare, according to thy 
 good pleasure. But as for Rustem ! for this one night, at 
 least, he must tarry at Samengan as our honored guest." 
 
 So, being satisfied with these promises, Rustem put 
 away all suspicion from his mind, and became the King's 
 guest. Then all day they feasted and made merry, beguil- 
 ing the hours with wine and sweet words. Nor could the 
 King sufficiently honor his guest, though he encompassed 
 him with music and song, and waited upon him with his 
 own hands, as though he were his slave. And behold! 
 when night was fallen the monarch himself led Rustem 
 unto a couch perfumed with musk and roses, bidding him 
 slumber peacefully until morning, when he should again 
 be made glad in Rakush, his steed.
 
 RUSTEM'S ROMANCE 185 
 
 Now thus delightfully couched, Rustem slept dream- 
 lessly until the star of morning stood high in the arch of 
 heaven. Then suddenly there fell upon his ear the mur- 
 mur of soft womanly voices which caused the hero to 
 start up in confused amazement. Seeing nothing, however, 
 he closed his eyes again, for he thought that he had 
 dreamed. 
 
 But though his conclusion was natural, the hero dreamed 
 not, for presently the heavy curtains were drawn softly 
 aside, and there stepped within the chamber a slave bear- 
 ing a lamp perfumed with amber. And following after, 
 her veil but half concealing her lovely face, Rustem beheld 
 the fairest maiden his eyes had ever gazed upon. Now 
 for a moment the lovely vision lingered upon the threshold, 
 poised like a frightened bird for hasty flight, the rich 
 color suffusing her olive cheek, her dark eyes beaming 
 beneath their splendid lashes, and her pomegranate 
 mouth, flower-soft and sensitive, slightly parted. Then 
 gaining courage, slowly she advanced toward the hero, 
 and as she moved, fragrance was scattered from her robes, 
 and her long black ringlets, musk-perfumed, seemed unto 
 Rustem as fateful as the warrior's kamund. Yet, though 
 enchanted, the warrior sighed, for again he thought he but 
 dreamed. 
 
 But even as he would have settled himself once more 
 unto slumber, behold, like music upon his ear fell the soft 
 voice of Tamineh, bidding Fatima retire to the distant 
 window. Now this fully awoke the young warrior, who, 
 springing quickly from his couch, gazed in astonished 
 delight at his enchanting visitor. Then Tamineh spoke 
 in the soft, velvety tones she could use so effectively when 
 she chose. And she said :
 
 186 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 "My Lord Rustem, thou beholdest before thee the 
 Princess Tamineh, daughter of the King, and she hath 
 come thus into thy presence because the need is urgent. 
 For she would crave thy pardon for a great wrong which 
 she hath done unto thee, and which, she heareth, carrieth 
 with it a fearful penalty." 
 
 Now amazed at this most surprising confession poured 
 forth from tempting lips, moulded for love's recompense 
 alone, for a second the valiant Rustem was silenced by 
 the wonder and unexpectedness of it all. Quickly recov- 
 ering himself, however, he replied unto the maiden : 
 
 "Thou, Fair Princess! Thou hast done me a wrong? 
 Truly, I know not what wrong thou canst have done me, 
 unless it be the mischief wrought by thy bright eyes since 
 they have shone so radiantly upon me. It is true, my heart 
 whispers unto me that thy wondrous beauty hath caught 
 me in its snare, but if that be thy sin, it carrieth with it a 
 delightful penalty one which thou needst not fear." 
 
 Now this reply, so unlike that of a mighty warrior, caused 
 a roguish smile to play about the fascinating lips of the 
 Princess Tamineh, who, casting upon the speaker one 
 bright, admiring glance from her sparkling eyes, then 
 modestly dropped them, replying demurely unto this gal- 
 lant speech: 
 
 "Who knoweth, My Lord, but that, perchance, I would 
 gladly add that theft unto the other! But greatly I fear 
 that thou wilt consider my first offence the greater. For it 
 was I, and none other, who had stolen from thee Rakush, 
 thy steed of battle, who even now slumbereth peacefully in 
 the royal stables." 
 
 So spake Tamineh, and though, as we know, her words 
 were true, yet was it long before she could persuade the
 
 RUSTEM'S ROMANCE 187 
 
 master of Rakush that she did not jest. When she finally 
 convinced him, however, so great was his joy in knowing 
 Rakush safe and unharmed, that, behold, he forgot to be 
 angry with the thief. But, after all, who could blame him ? 
 for the thief was very fair, and she confessed with a voice 
 that rivalled the magic notes of the bulbul chanting unto 
 his mate. And besides, the master of Rakush had it in his 
 heart to ask a great boon of the Princess, and this time he 
 remembered that not by anger, but by charming, one 
 lureth a bird from the bush. So, smiling, he said unto 
 Tamineh: 
 
 "Fair Princess, behold, thou standest before thy judge, 
 convicted of two serious crimes. Two conditions must 
 thou fulfil, therefore, if thou wouldst obtain thy pardon. 
 First, the judge must be allowed to gaze upon the face of 
 the fair culprit, else how can he administer suitable pun- 
 ishment? And second, he must be informed as to the 
 motive of the theft, for that puzzle hath yet to be unrav- 
 elled." 
 
 Now at this embarrassing sentence, the lovely Tamineh 
 stood silent before her judge, looking indeed like a culprit 
 fostering half a desire to flee. But presently, rallying her 
 forces, she replied bravely unto the Mighty One, though 
 her soft voice trembled and she looked not up: 
 
 " My Lord Rust em, though news unto thee since thou 
 art a mighty warrior I suppose it is yet true that every 
 maiden hath her hero. Now it is owing to Fatima, there, 
 who is a Persian, that I have mine: a hero of whose fame 
 and valorous deeds I have dreamed my life long, whose 
 like ne'er was and ne'er will be again, whose glory reach- 
 eth even unto the stars. And thou must know also, O 
 Mighty One, that every maiden longeth to gaze upon the
 
 188 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 face of the only hero in the world for her. That is why I 
 stole thy horse. And now, since thou knowest my utmost 
 guilt, findest thou my crime too great for pardon?" 
 
 But unto this plea, for some minutes, Rustem replied 
 not, for persistently his heart kept singing: "The only 
 hero in the world for her! The only hero in the world for 
 her!" Now praise was no new thing unto the Champion 
 of the World, but never before had it been offered with 
 such subtle charm. And besides, with joy the warrior 
 recognized that here was a spirit akin unto his own in its 
 dauntlessness and longings after the best. Drawing near 
 unto the Princess, therefore, "The Only Hero in the 
 World" said unto her softly: 
 
 "Fair Pomegranate Flower, one of the conditions, 
 truly, thou hast fulfilled; but the other must be met also; 
 for verily my eyes are hungry for full sight of lips that can 
 murmur words so sweet to hear!" 
 
 But the Princess, drawing closer the long white veil 
 which half concealed her face, stepped quickly back, say- 
 ing proudly unto the eager Rustem: 
 
 "Nay, nay, my Lord! That is a privilege I grant only 
 unto the rn^n who weddeth me." 
 
 Now saying this, slowly the Princess moved toward the 
 curtains, as though she would go. But Rustem, detaining 
 her, cried out impetuously: 
 
 "O Pearl among Women, stay! for verily my heart 
 hath wakened and calleth unto thee for its mate. Only 
 consent, therefore, and to-morrow will we be wed." 
 
 But, though these words sounded unto Tamineh like 
 a paean of victory, she received them coldly; for well she 
 knew that no man least of all a warrior careth for what 
 he can win too easily. And then it was that Rustem, in
 
 RUSTEM'S ROMANCE 
 
 whom contradiction ever roused a fiery purpose to obtain 
 his will, vowed again and yet again that he could not live 
 without her; that he would wed but her, and that before 
 the morrow's sun had set; that from henceforth honor 
 and praise and glory would be as ashes unto his lips, 
 unless shared with his Moon of Beauty. 
 
 So now, having thus aroused desire, softly the Princess 
 drew aside her veil. Then before the enraptured Rustem 
 had wakened to the danger, like a gay humming-bird, 
 swiftly away she flew, leaving in his hands her veil, which 
 he in his eagerness had seized lest she hide that lovely 
 face again too soon. And as she fled, like chimes of bells 
 there floated back the sound of merry laughter, which 
 but fanned the flame glowing already so brightly in the 
 awakened heart of the hero left gazing so ruefully upon 
 love's only token the dainty, fragrant, cruel film of lace. 
 Now regarding it tenderly, the warrior smiled and said: 
 
 ''Behold, the gay young Singing-bird hath flown, leaving 
 her pretty wing in the too rough hand of her captor! But, 
 by the sun and moon and stars, I swear that yet shall she 
 be mine, for mighty in love shall Rustem be as well as in 
 deeds of valor." 
 
 Consequently, when morning dawned, and the hero once 
 more beheld the King, ceremoniously he asked Tamineh's 
 hand in marriage. Yea, and the monarch of Samengan 
 listened unto him gladly, for was it not Rustem the Mighty 
 who sued! And did he not know but too well the heart of 
 his Moon of Beauty! So that very day was the marriage 
 bower crowned with roses and decked with white lilies, 
 while the royal abode was flooded with music and sun- 
 shine to grace the glad wedding of the Princess Tamineh. 
 And when all was over, verily it seemed unto Rustem and
 
 190 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 his pretty Singing-bird as if the world, like some vast tidal 
 wave, had rolled away, leaving them alone with their hap- 
 piness upon the golden shores of the Land of Delight. 
 
 Now thus it was that Tamineh, Princess of Samengan, 
 obtained her heart's desire. And behold! for one bright 
 summer month she tasted such happiness as is seldom 
 vouchsafed, even unto the children of Ormuzd. Wander- 
 ing in the myrtle groves, or strolling together in the shady 
 forest, the Princess now heard from the hero's own lips 
 marvellous tales of adventure, and, the days passed for 
 both like a happy dream. But alas! In the Book of Fate 
 it is written that pure happiness is not for mortals, and so, 
 when one bright moon had run her course, relentlessly 
 sorrow joy's sombre twin invaded this Land of De- 
 light. 
 
 And behold! not suddenly, but with stealth, the invader 
 drew nigh, attacking first the hero of battles. For grad- 
 ually Rustem became restless, and impatient with his life 
 of inactivity, longing intensely for the excitement of war- 
 fare and adventure to which he was accustomed and for 
 which he was formed. For alas! Nature, in giving unto 
 him his giant frame and mighty muscles, his valorous 
 heart, and his soul that joyed, above all else, in battle, had 
 planned and destined the mighty son of Zal to shine 
 through all the ages not as a lover, but as the type of 
 the perfect warrior. 
 
 Now slowly this truth was brought home unto Tamineh, 
 as she noted the ever-increasing restlessness of her hero, 
 which even she could not always still, though she knew 
 that he loved her tenderly. And though she spake not of 
 it, her heart became burdened with sorrow, for she knew 
 that the time was now not far off when Rustem would go
 
 The days passed for both like a happy dream.
 
 RUSTEM'S ROMANCE 191 
 
 back unto his own people and life, perhaps forgetting her 
 in the more powerful attractions of war, while she must 
 needs love him forever. 
 
 And alas! Tamineh was right in her surmise, for it 
 needed only the rumor that war had again broken out in 
 Persia to cause Rustem to buckle on his sword and armor 
 with joy at the prospect of battle. Then hastily seeking 
 the King, he said unto him: 
 
 " O Royal Cypress, long have I rested in the shade of thy 
 glorious land, but now I must say unto it farewell. For 
 behold ! duty calleth me back unto Iran, and it is well, for 
 verily my sword hath rusted too long in its scabbard, and 
 Rakush neigheth with longing to bear me once more in 
 the thick of the fight." 
 
 Now having thus spoken, the hero opened his arms and 
 took unto his heart Tamineh, the Peri-faced, bathing her 
 cheeks with tears and covering her hair and eyes with 
 kisses; also he whispered unto his Singing-bird sweet 
 words of enchantment. But alas for Tamineh! Clinging 
 unto the neck of her hero, bitterly she wept, crying unto 
 her beloved: 
 
 "O Light of my Life! I fear that thou goest from me 
 forever, and how shall I live without thee?" 
 
 But, kissing away her tears, Rustem spake unto Tami- 
 neh brave words of comfort, telling her that he would 
 surely return unto her when his fighting was over, laden 
 with fresh laurels to lay at her feet. And he bade her be 
 strong and dauntless of spirit, as was seemly for a war- 
 rior's bride, since even for this was it that he loved her. 
 And last of all, taking from off his arm an onyx bracelet, 
 upon which was engraved the image of a Simurgh, he 
 gave it unto Tamineh, saying:
 
 192 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 "Pearl of my Heart, listen! If while I am away, God 
 should send unto us a daughter, fasten this amulet under 
 her curls. If, however, a son should be sent to gladden 
 our hearts, then let him wear it upon his arm, as his 
 father hath worn it, for it will protect him from the powers 
 of evil, being the badge of Rustem and of Zal." 
 
 Now having thus spoken, hastily Rustem threw himself 
 upon the back of Rakush, and the wind-footed bare him 
 swiftly away from out the sight of Tamineh, unto whom 
 the world suddenly became dark, so blinded were her 
 eyes with tears. 
 
 Then with leaden feet passed the days for the Princess 
 Tamineh. Howbeit, as time passed on, news came from 
 the Mighty Rustem of fresh victories, together with a present 
 of three great rubies of priceless value and three wedges 
 of finest gold. But alas! the letter said 'no word of the 
 hero's return, only of more battles and victories to come. 
 And Tamineh, reading between the lines, sighed bitterly, 
 taking no pleasure in the rubies and gold. 
 
 But a great joy was in store for Tamineh, for one night 
 as she sat sorrowfully upon her balcony, suddenly she 
 heard a flutter of mighty wings, and behold, there was 
 dropped into her lap a priceless treasure a babe whose 
 mouth was rilled with smiles, and who in feature resembled 
 his glorious sire. Then was Tamineh comforted, and be- 
 cause of his smiles she called her babe Sohrab, which 
 meaneth Sunshine,
 
 SOHRAB THE YOUTH 
 
 NOW if we are to believe what the old chronicles tell 
 us, never, I suppose, since the world began was 
 there born a more lovable babe than Sohrab, the 
 son of Rustem. When he came unto his mother, behold, 
 his eyes and mouth were still alight with the sunshine of 
 Paradise, and, instead of crying, he kicked and crowed 
 with delight, trying thus to say unto Tamineh that he was 
 glad to leave even the Garden of the Blessed to come unto 
 her. 
 
 And truly the babe was a joy to behold ! for in addition 
 to all the gay loveliness of Rustem' s bright Singing-bird, 
 from his illustrious father he had inherited the splendid 
 physique of the noble house of Zal. Following after Rus- 
 tem, too, he grew so rapidly that when he was a month old 
 he had the limbs of a yearling child; at three years he 
 learned exercises of arms; at five he was bold as a lion; 
 and at ten there was not a hero in the whole country who 
 dared wrestle with him. 
 
 So, practising all the exercises of an athlete and a war- 
 rior, the boy grew up tall, dark, and straight as a young 
 cypress, with limbs like unto an elephant, heart bold as 
 a lion's, and his foot as swift as that of the wild stag; yet 
 withal, so simple, gay, generous, and lovable, that from 
 his proud grandsire, the King of Samengan, down to the 
 meanest subject in the realm, he was admired and adored 
 by all while as for his mother, unto her he was the very 
 breath of life, filling every sleeping and waking thought. 
 193
 
 194 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Now Sohrab had inherited from Tamineh one trait 
 which drew them very close together. For behold! what- 
 ever the day's occupation, and no matter what else tempted, 
 at the evening hour the boy always sought his mother upon 
 the balcony, where, seated at her feet, his bright head pil- 
 lowed in her lap, he spent the happiest hour of his day 
 listening unto the marvellous hero tales that poured like 
 magic from her lips. For Tamineh, wishing her boy to 
 be steeped in the legends of his father's land, gladly re- 
 lated unto him the wonder tales of the Persians, all of 
 which found an answering echo in the eager young soul 
 of her listener. For verily Sohrab could not have been 
 the son of Rustem without longing for battle and adventure. 
 
 And of course in all these stories the Hero of Heroes was 
 Rustem the Mighty, unto whom the fair narrator did full 
 justice. For Tamineh loved "The Only Hero in the 
 World for her!" still, though he had never returned unto 
 her; and so, as her hand strayed in mute caress through 
 the thick, dark locks of Sohrab who was, alas, love's 
 only legacy unto her! she told of all the Champion's 
 wondrous deeds of valor with such fire and passion that 
 the cheeks of both glowed with the tremendous stress of it. 
 Yea, and Sohrab never wearied of these tales, begging to 
 have them repeated again and again; and, as a conse- 
 quence, he grew up with the thought that never had 
 the world known such a mighty Pehliva as Rustem the 
 Persian. 
 
 And Rakush, too, delighted the boy's soul Rakush 
 the dauntless who carried the great hero of his country so 
 gallantly through the thickest of the fight; Rakush the 
 lion-slayer; Rakush who neighed for joy at the battle's 
 roar; Rakush who feared neither man, nor dragon, nor
 
 SOHRAB THE YOUTH 195 
 
 Deev; Rakush the gentle, who loved to eat sugar from his 
 master's hand. 
 
 Now listening unto all these inspiring tales, Sohrab de- 
 termined deep in his soul that one day he, too, would be 
 a great hero yea, even the Champion of the World, as 
 Rustem, leading his armies on to victory, and performing 
 such deeds of valor as should bring fame and glory unto 
 Turan, his land, and pride unto the heart of his mother, 
 whose cheek he promised himself should flush one day 
 as she related his brave deeds, even as now when she spoke 
 of Rustem, the Hero of Heroes. For did he not intend 
 that the name "Sohrab" should go ringing down the ages 
 as the symbol of courage, generosity, loyalty, high en- 
 deavor, and chivalrous deeds? Yea, he would try hard; 
 then, perhaps, one day the great Rustem might hear of 
 him, and it might even happen that he would meet him 
 face to face. 
 
 Thus the lad dreamed, not knowing that Rustem was his 
 sire, for Tamineh had not revealed unto him his lineage. 
 And alas! neither was it known unto Rustem that God 
 had blessed him with a noble son. For, at the birth of 
 Sohrab, the gentle mother, fearing that if the truth became 
 known unto the great Persian chieftain, at once he would 
 send and take the boy from her to train him up as a soldier 
 to fight against her country, had sent word by a messenger 
 who travelled unto Persia that a little daughter had been 
 born unto him in Samengan. And behold! so little were 
 daughters prized in the East at that time that Rustem 
 never asked to see the child, and so remained in ignorance 
 as to Sohrab. 
 
 For, although the years passed, Rustem was so busy 
 fighting, that he never came back unto Samengan. But
 
 196 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 for Sohrab, therefore, the whole episode would have seemed 
 unto Tamineh as naught but a blissful dream. In her 
 beautiful, high-spirited boy, however, the Princess was 
 consoled, for she knew that in him she possessed forever 
 the best of Rustem the hero's heart, the dauntless spirit, 
 the enduring soul that which she had most loved in her 
 hero. So gradually the warm, living presence of dreamy- 
 eyed Sohrab, whose arms loved to linger round his moth- 
 er's neck, caused Tamineh to think of Rustem as a glorious 
 warrior, but also as quite apart from her life. 
 
 Nevertheless, the Great Pehliva was the tie that bound 
 this mother and son so closely together for was he not 
 the ideal of each? And often yea, very often! the wish 
 sprang up in the heart of Tamineh that Rustem might 
 behold his glorious son. But alas! when she remembered 
 that as a consequence, her boy might be taken from her, 
 her heart grew weak and she held her peace. 
 
 So the years passed by, bringing naught but joy unto 
 Sohrab, until he was grown into a strong, manly, coura- 
 geous youth of seventeen, who could ride, joust, tilt, hunt, 
 and use both sword and spear better than any warrior in 
 the whole kingdom of Samengan. Then one day he sought 
 his mother, saying unto her: 
 
 "Mother, think it not strange, but I care not for a won- 
 der-tale to-night; for much I have been thinking lately, 
 and this once I would question thee of other things. And 
 first, thou must know that but to-day Piran-Wisa hath 
 told unto me that in the arts of war and of prowess he 
 can teach me no more. So now I would hear of my race and 
 lineage. Now of course I know that I am nobly born, for I 
 feel it in all my being; but what shall I say unto men when 
 they ask me the name of my sire ? for verily I know it not."
 
 SOHRAB THE YOUTH 197 
 
 Now hearing these words of spirit, Tamineh smiled, 
 because that his fire and pride were like unto that of his 
 father; but she sighed also, for she scented in these words 
 of manhood the loss of her boy. Nevertheless, disguising 
 her sorrow, she replied gaily unto Sohrab and she said: 
 
 "So thou art tired of thy mother's wonder stories, art 
 thou? And desirest to speak of other things! Ah, but 
 one more tale must thou hear, my Stately Young Cypress 
 one that I have been saving for thee right jealously for 
 many days; one that will be unto thine ears sweeter than 
 the song of yonder bulbul as he chanteth so entrancingly 
 unto his mate. Nay, do not kiss me now, but cuddle down 
 close to my side, and listen unto thy mother's love song. 
 It will not detain thee long ! 
 
 "Well, once upon a time in the glorious spring-time of 
 the world, Ormuzd the Blessed, in the fair gardens of Para- 
 dise, conceived in his heart the thought of fashioning and 
 sending forth into the world a hero who should be mightier 
 and more illustrious than any of the sons of men. So, long 
 he thought, and shaped, and wrought, for he planned a 
 perfect hero, and his task was not easy. But finally, the 
 beautiful Peri of Paradise having kissed dimples into the 
 soft skin of the babe, curl into his hair, and the pome- 
 granate bloom into his cheeks, even as they must have 
 done unto thee, O Beauteous One, before they sent thee 
 forth unto me all was pronounced finished, and the 
 Blessed One smiled at his work, pronouncing it good, for 
 behold, in this wondrous creation, not a thing was there 
 that marred, all bearing the stamp of perfection. 
 
 "Now they loved this babe in Paradise, and so it lingered 
 there awhile. But, since not for this was it created, at 
 last, reluctantly, the Blessed Ormuzd, summoning unto
 
 198 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 him the Wondrous Bird of God, tucked the laughing little 
 one safely under her golden feathers, and sent it forth, 
 bidding the tender mother-bird carry her treasure safely 
 unto the house of White-haired Zal, in Persia. 
 
 "Ah, now my Young Cypress raiseth high his head, 
 and I perceive that he hath guessed the name of my hero! 
 But listen, for my tale is but just begun! 
 
 "And alas! it runneth not now so pleasantly, for Iblis, 
 who hateth perfection, even as he hateth Ormuzd the 
 Blessed, beholding this wondrous babe, in its cradle mur- 
 mured over it vile words of magic. And having wrought 
 his spell, maliciously he smiled, and said : 
 
 " ' Behold, now art thou perfect no longer, though thou 
 appearest the same. And though a mighty warrior thou 
 shalt be, truly, a heavy price shalt thou pay. For behold! 
 all the days of thy life the tender joys of the heart shall be 
 little known unto thee, though thy deeds shall be glorious! ' 
 
 "Now this explaineth perfectly, doth it not? why thy 
 great hero, Rustem, joyeth above all else in the roar and 
 tumult of battle. It may also whisper unto thy heart other 
 things, even as it hath unto thy mother, whose hero is also 
 thy hero, and whose deeds of valor thrilled her maiden 
 heart even as they now call forth such responsive echo in 
 thine own. 
 
 "But though thine ear hath been delighted with many 
 an adventure of Rustem, thou hast yet to hear, methinks, 
 of a certain great hunting expedition upon which the hero 
 lost his horse, but won a bride. For, be it known unto 
 thee, my Sun-kissed Cypress, that a certain wicked Prin- 
 cess of Samengan, Tamineh by name, in order to behold 
 the face of her hero, audaciously caused the redoubtable 
 Rakush to be stolen, thus luring the mighty Rustem unto
 
 SOHRAB THE YOUTH 199 
 
 the Court, where for one happy month the love of his 
 lady succeeded in blotting out from his heart all desire for 
 battle and bloodshed. Then, alas, War, the true mistress 
 of his life, once more regained her dominion! And so, 
 seventeen long years ago, he bade good-by to his gay 
 young Singing-bird, and never again hath he returned 
 unto Samengan. 
 
 "But though her hero returned not, behold, the Princess 
 was not left comfortless. For Ormuzd the Blessed, who 
 ever keepeth a watchful eye upon his own, beholding the 
 sad heart of the forsaken one, unperceived of Iblis, once 
 more fashioned a perfect hero and sent him forth, this 
 time unto the house of Tamineh. Now this beautiful 
 babe seemed made of the essence of sunshine, and so, soon 
 it came to pass that unto the lonely Princess he became 
 the very light of her eyes and the joy of her life; yea, the 
 very breath of her heart! for whom had she beside? 
 
 "And so the wonder tale reveal eth that the proud 
 Young Cypress, who gazeth with such shining eyes into 
 those of his mother, is the noble shoot of a mighty tree 
 whose shadow extendeth over the earth, and whose fame 
 shall be sung by the Children of Ormuzd as long as the 
 world lasts. 
 
 "And now, the tale being finished, if the promising Hero 
 of Noble Race will graciously raise his fair head, not unto 
 the stars, but unto his mother's lips, much she would like 
 to greet him! ere the word is of other things." 
 
 Now thus it was that Tamineh told unto Sohrab the 
 story of her love, and having revealed unto him all things 
 concerning his father, she charged him to keep secret 
 what he had heard, lest Afrasiab, the enemy of Rustem, 
 should slay the son because of the father, or lest Rustem
 
 200 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 should send for his son, thus bringing grief unto the heart 
 of his mother. 
 
 But Sohrab, in the pride of his youth, with flashing eyes 
 and uplifted head, replied proudly unto his mother. And 
 he said: 
 
 " O Pearl among Mothers, verily my heart telleth me that 
 this is a secret that cannot long remain known unto but 
 two! For doth not the fame of Rustem, my noble father, 
 even now nil the whole world with glory ? And am not I 
 his son? And shall not the son of Rustem also be glori- 
 ous? Verily, thou mayest not think it, since as yet I am 
 only a youth, but, mother, there is that within me which 
 whispereth that one day I, too, shall do valiant deeds! 
 Yea, and the day is not now far distant. For listen, 
 O my mother! 
 
 " Soon will I put myself at the head of an innumerable 
 army of Tartars, and with them to aid me it will not take 
 long to deprive that foolish Kaikous of his head and 
 throne; for verily he is not fit to rule over a great country 
 like Persia! Then will I place upon the throne of light 
 the true monarch of Iran, even Rustem the Mighty. And 
 behold! this being done, my father and I will, together, 
 make war against Afrasiab, and I will possess myself of 
 his throne. For, since Rustem is my father and I am his 
 son, verily I will not suffer that there be any Kings in the 
 world but him and me! For unto us belong the crowns of 
 might. And dost thou know what thou wilt be then, O 
 my Glorious Mother? Why, Queen of the whole world! 
 And when that day shall come, as it surely will, then thy 
 cheek shall flush with pride not only for the Mighty Rus- 
 tem, but also for Sohrab, thy son. For, having subdued 
 the wicked and the foolish, with wisdom and gentleness
 
 SOHRAB THE YOUTH 201 
 
 will we reign, so that all the world shall be glad because of 
 the house of Zal." 
 
 Now taking the ardent young speaker in her arms, 
 Tamineh kissed his flushed cheeks and bright eyes again 
 and again for answer, realizing with sorrow that the time 
 was nigh when she must let her bold young eaglet go forth 
 to try his wings. But though her heart was heavy, she 
 spake brave words of wisdom unto Sohrab, promising that 
 when the time came for him to go forth, she herself 
 would buckle on his sword. 
 
 So all was yet well in the house of Tamineh. But lo! 
 that night the Angel Serosch, in her sevenfold flight 
 around the world, beheld Sohrab's youth vanish from him 
 forever, leaving in its place an aspiring hero, whose one 
 desire was to behold the face of his glorious sire and to 
 perform brave deeds like unto his.
 
 SOHRAB AND THE WARRIOR 
 MAIDEN 
 
 BEHOLD! among the many legends of Sohrab, the 
 son of Rustem, it is chronicled that with no one 
 was he a greater favorite than with the famous 
 Tartar general, old Piran-Wisa. And his interest in the 
 child manifested itself in a practical way, for whenever he 
 came unto Samengan, he put the lad through military 
 exercises, teaching him thus the tactics of war. 
 
 Now at the time when Sohrab learned of his lineage the 
 Kurds and Tartars were carrying on a fierce war against 
 the Persians, and so eager was he now to acquire experi- 
 ence in battle, that finally he persuaded Piran-Wisa to 
 secure him a command in the army of Afrasiab. And this 
 was not difficult of accomplishment, for already had the 
 fame of the great strength, and skill, and bravery of Sohrab 
 pierced unto the ears of the King, who gladly accepted his 
 services, scenting in him a mighty champion, later on, for 
 his army. 
 
 So, having received his commission, Sohrab knelt before 
 his grandfather, the King of Samengan, promising to keep 
 untarnished the sword and shield which that monarch had 
 presented unto his grandson, as his first gift of manhood. 
 And the King blessed the youth, giving unto him also the 
 noblest charger in the royal stables. Then Tamineh 
 buckled on his sword, and bound about his wrist the amu- 
 202
 
 SOHRAB AND THE WARRIOR MAIDEN 203 
 
 let of the house of Zal, speaking naught but brave words 
 unto her son. And so, proud and happy, they sent him forth. 
 
 After this, it is recorded that brave Sohrab fought in 
 many battles, conducting himself with so much wisdom and 
 valor that all men spake his praise. But notwithstanding 
 his victories and growing.fame, the youth was not content. 
 For, in the thick of battle, as in his quiet hours of dream- 
 ing, one great wish ever possessed his soul to meet his 
 father, the Mighty Rustem, face to face, and win his word 
 of praise. 
 
 So, pondering ever his great desire, Sohrab knew no 
 peace until finally he decided to go in search of his father; 
 and having arrived at this decision, straightway he sought 
 out his grandsire, beseeching his counsel and aid. Now 
 the King of Samengan, rejoicing in the courage and prow- 
 ess of Sohrab, having listened unto his desire, quickly 
 opened unto him the doors of his treasury, pouring forth 
 gold without stint, for he loved the boy tenderly. And as 
 a sign of his good pleasure, he also, at this time, invested 
 his grandson with all the honors of a King. 
 
 As for Tamineh, beholding that her son's charger now 
 quivered beneath his weight, quickly she commanded the 
 guardians of the herd that they lead forth all the royal 
 horses before Sohrab that he might choose him a war- 
 steed worthy this glorious enterprise. But alas! one and 
 all bowed themselves beneath his weight, even as they had 
 when tested by the Mighty Rustem, when he chose his 
 steed of battle. But presently there came before Sohrab 
 one who told of a beautiful foal sprung from Rustem's 
 glorious Rakush clean-limbed, strong, and beautiful, 
 which, having tested, Sohrab declared perfect. In his 
 joy, therefore, he cried out gaily unto his mother:
 
 204 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 "Fair Queen of the World! Behold, the brave sons of 
 Rustem and of Rakush crave thy blessing ere they go 
 forth in search of laurels and a sunny crown to grace thy 
 glorious tresses one of which thy hero craveth that he 
 may seem in truth to carry thee ever near his heart." 
 
 Alas! Tamineh, as she gazed at her splendid son, longed 
 neither for laurels nor a crown, but only to joy in his glori- 
 ous presence forever for such is the way of mothers. 
 Nevertheless, meeting banter with banter, graciously she 
 allowed that one dark lock be severed from her abundant 
 tresses, and she smiled as she noted the admiration and 
 love exhibited by the nobles and warriors who flocked so 
 gladly to Sohrab's standard. Yea, and deep in her heart 
 she longed to be a youth that she, too, might follow this 
 glorious young leader, watching over his safety in the 
 capacity of devoted body-guard. 
 
 And well if this might have been! for, though Tamineh 
 suspected it not, on this expedition, much Sohrab was to 
 need the offices of a wise, devoted, and loyal companion, 
 since he had enemies who, even as he recruited his army, 
 were plotting his destruction. Indeed yes, and of these 
 Afrasiab was the instigator, for upon hearing the news of 
 Sohrab's intention, straightway he called unto him Human 
 and Barman, two of his most doughty chieftains, and said 
 unto them: 
 
 " O my Pehliva, listen unto my voice, for verily I have 
 a plan which shall rid us of all our enemies. For behold! 
 it is known unto me that Sohrab is sprung from that great 
 disturber of our progress, Rustem the Mighty, who sus- 
 pecteth not that he hath a son. It must be hidden from 
 him, therefore, who it is that cometh out against him, for 
 these two champions will surely meet in battle, and it may
 
 SOHRAB AND THE WARRIOR MAIDEN 205 
 
 be that the young lion will kill the old one. Now if that 
 shall come to pass, behold, Iran, devoid of Rustem, will 
 fall an easy prey into our hands; and when that shall have 
 happened, it will be an easy matter to take Sohrab by 
 stratagem and slay him. If, on the other hand, however, 
 Rustem should slay his son, then would his heart be de- 
 voured with grief, so that he would trouble his enemies no 
 more." 
 
 So spake Afrasiab unto his chiefs, and having poured 
 out all his guile, he bade them quickly gather together 
 a great army to join the ranks of Sohrab, and depart unto 
 Samengan. And behold, they bare with them gifts of 
 great price to set before the face of Sohrab, and they 
 carried unto him also a letter from the King, filled with 
 words of honey. And the letter said : 
 
 "O Glorious Stripling, whose equal existeth not in all 
 the world, behold, the King laudeth thy valorous resolve 
 to bring Iran unto thy feet, and he sendeth unto thee 
 a mighty army that right speedily Turan, Iran, and Samen- 
 gan may be one land, and all the world at peace." 
 
 So Sohrab, thus encouraged by the King, and unsus- 
 picious of his guile, caused the cymbals of departure to be 
 sounded, and the army set forth upon its tour of conquest. 
 Now the track of this youthful conqueror was marked by 
 desolation and destruction, but behold, he marched on 
 unstayed until he was come unto the White Fortress, 
 which was the key to the heart of Persia. 
 
 Now the governor of this stronghold was Gustahem the 
 brave, an old and famous warrior, but now, alas, so feeble 
 that he could assist in the defence of the fort only by his 
 counsel. He had under him, however, a young captain, 
 Hujir by name, who was known unto the enemy as a very
 
 206 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 brave and powerful champion, so the White Castle was 
 considered impregnable. Believing themselves to be se- 
 cure, therefore, when Hujir beheld from afar a dark cloud 
 of armed men, with gallant Sohrab at their head, imme- 
 diately he donned his armor and rushed forward to chal- 
 lenge him, crying arrogantly: 
 
 "Halt, thou Stripling! for if thou venturest one step 
 nearer, verily I will lop off that towering head of thine, 
 and give thy soft, baby flesh unto yon hungry vultures for 
 food." 
 
 But behold! this fierce menace deterred not for a single 
 second the onward course of Sohrab, who, hesitating not, 
 boldly charged the champion, quickly o'ercoming him. 
 For, though Hujir fought bravely, in the hands of Rustem's 
 mighty son he was naught but an infant. Seeing himself 
 at the mercy of the invader, therefore, humbly the van- 
 quished hero begged for quarter, and Sohrab, who was 
 young and tender of heart, granted unto his adversary his 
 life, binding him with cords and sending him captive unto 
 Human. 
 
 Howbeit, though successful in this encounter, Sohrab was 
 to face another adversary upon this eventful day one pow- 
 erful in a fashion of which he dreamed not. For behold, it 
 is chronicled that in the Fort there also dwelt the lovely 
 daughter of Gustahem, a war-like maid, skilled in athletic 
 sports, and famed for her exploits in many a battle. Now 
 the name of the maiden was Gurdafrid, and beholding the 
 overthrow of Hujir, her heart was filled with anger and 
 shame. 
 
 So, filled with fury, quickly the warrior-maiden clothed 
 herself in burnished mail, hiding her glorious tresses under 
 an iron helmet. Then, mounting her fiery steed, she rode
 
 SOHRAB AND THE WARRIOR MAIDEN 207 
 
 boldly forth from out the gates of the White Castle, 
 fiercely challenging the enemy to produce a champion 
 worthy to meet her in combat, that thus the fate of the 
 Fort might be decided. 
 
 But behold! none answered the challenge, for all 
 thought that they gazed upon a mighty warrior, not know- 
 ing that the burnished steel hid naught but a woman with 
 quickly-beating heart. Seeing that none of his warriors 
 desired to take up the challenge, therefore, once more 
 gallant Sohrab stepped gayly forth, crying: 
 
 " Methinks I see before me another wild ass for my lasso. 
 Come forward, Puny One, for verily Hujir is lonely in his 
 captivity." 
 
 Now having thus spoken, with a smile of exultation 
 Sohrab rode forward to his second encounter; and the 
 maid, at his approach, let fly a storm of arrows, attacking 
 him first from one side, then from the other. Yea, the 
 missiles fell thick like hail, whizzing about the hero's 
 head so that he could not defend himself, and behold, he 
 was angry and ashamed, for was not the whole army gaz- 
 ing upon his discomfiture ? 
 
 Nevertheless, it was a pretty sight to watch the maid! 
 For, as she rapidly wheeled her horse from side to side, 
 now retiring and now advancing, smiting her shield with 
 her spear to frighten the hero's horse, and raining her 
 shower of arrows, verily she seemed the personification of 
 dexterity and skill, and it looked as if the overthrow of 
 Sohrab was at hand. 
 
 But, though for a time the contest was doubtful, the 
 advantage was not to be always upon the side of the 
 maiden. For Sohrab, mortified and enraged, advanced 
 with fury, regarding not the arrows. But think not that he
 
 208 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 dismayed Gurdafrid a whit! Nay, for when she saw him 
 approach, dexterously she threw her bow over her shoulder, 
 put her spear in rest, and galloped to meet him. Then 
 Sohrab, drawing his spear back until the point was almost 
 level with his body, delivered it with all his force, striking 
 Gurdafrid upon the girdle. Now the force of the blow was 
 so great that it burst the fastenings of her coat of mail and 
 hurled her from her saddle like a ball struck by a racquet, 
 and you would have said that now the contest was ended. 
 But not so, for, quick as a flash, the maiden twisted herself 
 under her saddle, drew a sword from out her girdle, and 
 cut Sohrab's spear in half. Then, having performed this 
 feat, quickly she sprang again into her saddle and turned 
 to go, for she was weary from the fierceness of the combat, 
 and she saw that the day was hers. 
 
 But Sohrab, perceiving her intent, slackening the reins 
 of his horse, galloped after the fleeing one at full speed, 
 and, having come up with her, boldly grasped the helmet 
 from her head; for he desired to look upon the face of the 
 hero who could thus withstand the son of Rustem. Im- 
 agine his surprise, therefore, when from out the iron helm 
 there rolled coil upon coil of beautiful dusky hair! For 
 this informed him that his valiant adversary was no battle- 
 tried warrior, but only a fair young maid. Now confounded 
 at this most astonishing discovery, Sohrab cried: 
 
 "O Valiant One, truly thou confoundest me! For if all 
 the daughters of Iran are like unto thee, then not even the 
 mightiest hero can conquer thy land." 
 
 But though overwhelmed with astonishment, Sohrab 
 neglected not to make captive his fair prisoner, though he 
 dreamed not that as he bound her with his lasso, even so 
 was she snaring him with her bright eyes. For continually
 
 SOHRAB AND THE WARRIOR MAIDEN 209 
 
 he gazed at Gurdafrid with ever-increasing admiration, 
 and he said: 
 
 " O Moon of Beauty, I understand it not, but verily thy 
 soft radiance delighteth my heart more than thy brilliant 
 splendor in battle. Seek not to escape me, therefore, for 
 surely never captive like unto thee hath fallen into the 
 hands of hero." 
 
 Then Gurdafrid, beholding the spell which her beauty 
 wrought in the heart of the hero, turned unto him her 
 fair face that was unveiled, for she perceived no other 
 means of safety. Nevertheless, she spake derisively unto 
 Sohrab, and she said: 
 
 "O Hero without Flaw! verily I envy thee not. For 
 will not thy army laugh and jibe when they learn that the 
 brave Sohrab was all but o'ercome by a woman ? Let us 
 hide this adventure, therefore, lest thy cheek have cause 
 to blush because of me; and let us conclude a peace be- 
 tween us. For verily the Fort with all its soldiers and 
 treasure now belongeth unto thee; thou hast only to follow 
 and take possession of thine own." 
 
 Alas! Sohrab was too young and ardent not to be affected 
 by the beauty and witchery of the maid, as well as by the 
 fear of derision, so he was easily beguiled into following 
 his fair captive unto the Fort. And he said : 
 
 "Verily, thou doest well to make peace with me, Fair 
 Warrior-Maid, for though the walls of thy fortress were as 
 high as the vaults of heaven, my club would easily level 
 them unto the ground." 
 
 Now so speaking, the gallant Sohrab and his captive 
 came unto the entrance of the Fort. And behold, Gusta- 
 hem, when he saw their approach, opened unto them the 
 portal, and the warrior-maid stepped leisurely over the
 
 210 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 threshold. But alas! when Sohrab would have followed 
 after her, he was not able, for the door had swung quickly 
 to, leaving him upon the outside. Then Sohrab knew that 
 he had been duped, and his fury knew no bounds. And 
 would you believe it? as he yet lingered, overcome with 
 surprise and shame, lo, the beautiful warrior-maiden came 
 out upon the battlements, and there floated down unto the 
 hero, from her smiling lips, words of poison coated o'er 
 with honey. And she said; 
 
 "Why, I wonder, doth the Mighty Lord of the Tartars 
 the Invincible Sohrab weary himself with waiting? 
 Surely, since he cannot stand before a mere woman, he 
 will fall an easy prey unto the great Rustem, when the 
 Pehliva learneth that vile robbers from Turan have broken 
 into the land, hoping to subdue it unto black-hearted 
 Afrasiab." 
 
 So spake the triumphant maiden, and as the mocking 
 words floated down unto Sohrab, verily he raged with all 
 the fury of a wild elephant. And he cried : 
 
 "Treacherous One, well mayest thou mock! but I 
 swear, by Ormuzd and all the Peri of Paradise, that yet 
 will I bring thee into subjection. And upon that day, 
 verily thou shalt pay dearly for thy guile and thy double- 
 faced words." 
 
 But the maiden, beholding how the Hero raged, laughed 
 tormentingly, giving no heed unto his words. Then, 
 leaning far over the battlements, so that her bewitching 
 face was once more plainly visible to the discomfited 
 Sohrab, again she mocked. And she said: 
 
 "Such noble stature! Such arms, and such a chest! 
 What a pity that it should become food for jackals! Such 
 strength, and such softness of heart! And yet, I fear me
 
 SOHRAB AND THE WARRIOR MAIDEN 211 
 
 the stupid cow will soon be ruminating upon the grass 
 which covers thy grave. Ah, woe is me!" 
 
 Now Sohrab was covered with shame that he must hear 
 such derisive words. Nevertheless, the dauntless spirit of 
 the maiden delighted him, while the soft, mocking lips, 
 the fair, flushed cheeks, and the laughing, dark eyes exer- 
 cised a strange fascination over him, causing his heart to 
 beat with more than shame and anger. Realizing, how- 
 ever, that he could not hope to compete with his fair adver- 
 sary in a battle of words, he now replied proudly unto her: 
 
 "Fair Mocker! I go; but if the Fort be not surrendered 
 by dawn to-morrow, then shall it be levelled to the dust!" 
 
 And, having thus hurled at the Warrior-maid this telling 
 bomb, the hero gave rein unto his horse, and galloped back 
 unto the army, followed by the sweet, mocking laugh of 
 Gurdafrid, which rang in his ears like beautiful, tantaliz- 
 ing music. 
 
 True to his word, however, at dawn Sohrab marched 
 with his army against the Fort. But as they drew near 
 they beheld not a single soldier upon the walls, and upon 
 advancing unto the gates, they were found to be open, while 
 there remained not a single armed man in the place. You 
 see, the truth was that the governor of the Fort, well know- 
 ing the fate that awaited them if they tarried until Sohrab 
 stormed its walls, had escaped with all his people, in the 
 darkness of the night, by a secret passage known only 
 unto the Persians. 
 
 So thus was Sohrab again outwitted, and thus"also van- 
 ished the Warrior-maid, so beautiful and so brave, from the 
 sight and grasp of the bold eaglet who had flown so gayly 
 and confidently forth from the heights of Samengan to 
 conquer the world.
 
 THE WRATH OF RUSTEM 
 
 NOW although Sohrab, the son of Rustem, was 
 known throughout the length and breadth of 
 Turan as a valiant young warrior, yet up to the 
 time of his adventure with the Warrior-maid his fame had 
 not spread unto Iran. 
 
 But this was now to be changed. For behold, the gov- 
 ernor of the White Fort, when forced to give into the 
 hands of Sohrab this key to the heart of the empire, hastily 
 sent forth a swift messenger bearing a letter unto Kaikous 
 the Shah. And the letter told how that an army, like unto 
 locusts for multitude, had flown forth from Turan, at 
 whose head rode a chief whose head towered above the 
 stars, and whose prowess, though he was still but a child 
 in years shamed that of the lion, the dragon, and the 
 fierce crocodile. Yea, and he told how that Hujir had been 
 overcome and taken prisoner by this great champion, and 
 how he now threatened to overrun and conquer all Persia, 
 unless the great Shah right speedily opposed his progress. 
 
 Now Kaikous, when he had read the letter of Gusta- 
 hem, was greatly troubled. So he called about him his 
 nobles to take counsel, and behold, with one accord they 
 cried: 
 
 "Verily, Rustem alone can deliver us from this great 
 peril!" 
 
 So the Shah hastily summoned a scribe, dictating unto 
 him a letter. And he said : 
 
 212
 
 THE WRATH OF RUSTEM 213 
 
 "O mighty Pehliva, whose glorious deeds have ever 
 caused the throne of light to shine with splendor greater 
 than the sun, behold, once more thy country calleth thee 
 unto her aid! For lo! among the Tartar host there hath 
 appeared a mighty champion whose like hath never been 
 seen save in the house of Saum and Neriman. Already 
 hath he demolished the White Fort, and only Rustem can 
 bar the path that leadeth to the throne. Come quickly, 
 then, to Iran's aid, rivalling the wind-footed dromedary 
 in thy speed. Be it night or day, tarry not e'en to speak 
 the word that hangeth upon thy lips, and if thou bearest 
 roses in thy hands, stop not to smell them, lest Sohrab 
 conquering come and all be lost." 
 
 Now having finished the letter, the Shah gave it unto 
 a warrior named Gew to carry unto Rustem. And he 
 said: 
 
 "O my Pehliva, truly my soul suffereth an agony of 
 fear! Haste thou, therefore, unto the great Champion, 
 pausing for neither rest nor food. And when thou art 
 come unto thy journey's end, do not linger there for even 
 an hour, for my heart crieth, haste! haste! and truly the 
 need is great." 
 
 So Gew departed, pausing for naught until he set foot 
 within the gates of Rustem. And so great was his speed 
 that the watchman upon the tower at Zaboulistan, noting 
 his approach, marvelled greatly, hastening quickly unto 
 Rustem with the news. And he said: 
 
 "O Mighty One, the watch-tower revealeth a warrior 
 coming by the way of Persia, riding like the wind. I fear 
 me that he bringeth bad news." 
 
 Now being thus informed, at once Rustem and his 
 chiefs rode out to meet the messenger, as was the Oriental
 
 214 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 custom. And when he beheld that it was Gew, he greeted 
 him cordially, for they were old comrades in arms. Being 
 informed of his mission, however, and of the strength and 
 courage of the gallant young Tartar, who was causing the 
 Shah such agony of soul, Rustem marvelled greatly. And 
 he said : 
 
 "Verily, I should not have been surprised if such a hero 
 as thou namest had arisen in Iran; but that a warrior of 
 such renown should spring forth from amidst the Tartar 
 horde is certainly past belief. Yet thou sayest dost thou ? 
 that the lineage of this Pehliva, so like unto Saum and 
 the great heroes of my house, is Turanian? Strange! 
 Now I myself have a child whom the daughter of a Tartar 
 King bare unto me; but the child is a girl. And even if it 
 were a son, it is yet but an infant, while that which thou 
 sayest hath been done, surely it is not the work of a babe! 
 But enter, I pray thee, into my house, and we will then 
 confer further as to this matter." 
 
 Then Rustem, seeing that his guest was fatigued, com- 
 manded that a great banquet be made ready, and he 
 feasted his comrade so royally that he caused him to forget 
 both care and time. But when morn was come, Gew 
 remembered the commands of his Shah, and he spake 
 thereof unto his host, who replied unto him : 
 
 "O my brave comrade! Behold, we must all die 
 some day. Let us, therefore, bask in the sunshine of the 
 present! As for this Tartar, disquiet not thyself concern- 
 ing him, for though he be a hero, the like of which the 
 world hath not seen, verily he shall fall into my hands! 
 But all in good time! To-day, however, we will feast, for 
 I perceive that thy lips are yet parched with the speed of 
 thy journey."
 
 THE WRATH OF RUSTEM 215 
 
 So Rustem made ready another banquet, and for three 
 days the comrades feasted and made merry without ceas- 
 ing. But on the fourth day Gew, who feared the anger of 
 the Shah, uprose with resolve, appearing before his host 
 girt for departure. And he said: 
 
 "O Glory of Iran, generous hath been thy hospitality, 
 and long will it warm the heart of Gew! It behooveth us 
 now, however, to return unto the Shah. For behold! the 
 fear of Sohrab weigheth upon his soul like a nightmare, 
 and he burneth with impatience, since sleep and rest have 
 deserted his pillow, and hunger and thirst are exercising 
 their dominion over him! Let us make haste, therefore, 
 for well thou knowest that Kaikous is a man senseless and 
 easily aroused to wrath." 
 
 But Rustem, smiling, replied with easy courtesy unto 
 Gew: 
 
 "Really, comrade, there is no need for such haste! It is 
 true that thou art right about Kaikous, but as for his 
 anger, let it give thee not a moment's anxiety! For verily 
 the man liveth not who dareth to be wroth with Rustem." 
 
 Nevertheless, his army being now recruited, the great 
 Pehliva commanded that Rakush be saddled, and they set 
 forth unto the Court; and great was the train that followed 
 after them. And behold, when they were come near unto 
 the King's palace, a great company of nobles rode out to 
 meet them to do honor unto the Glory of Iran, and to con- 
 duct him into the presence of the Shah. 
 
 So, presently, Rustem entered the great audience-room 
 of kings and, advancing unto the throne, performed obei- 
 sance unto the Lord of the World. But alas! Kaikous 
 was black with rage, and so, opening the doors of his 
 mouth, words of folly escaped his lips. And he said:
 
 216 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 "So thou art come at last, O Insolent Pehliva! Verily, 
 it is well. And now I should like to ask, 'Who is Rustem, 
 indeed, that he dareth to defy my power and disobey 
 my commands?' Truly, if I had a sword in my hand at 
 this moment, like an orange would I split his head, half in 
 half, and throw it unto the jackals! As I have not 
 Guards, seize him! for I will that he be hanged alive 
 upon the nearest gallows, and that his name be blotted out 
 from the list of my heroes." 
 
 Now Gew, when he heard these words of anger, was 
 confounded, and in his sore dismay he cried unto the 
 King: 
 
 " O Lord of the World, wilt thou really lay hands upon 
 Rustem ? I pray thee, forget not that he alone is the bul- 
 wark of the throne yea, e'en as he and his house have 
 ever been through long generations!" 
 
 But alas! Gew's words of wisdom but fanned the 
 blaze of the King's anger. Beside himself with fury, 
 therefore, he raged in his wrath like unto a mad elephant, 
 shouting with a roar that made the very throne tremble: 
 
 "Guards! Seize yon barking dog also, and hang him 
 alive with the other. Haste! Out of my presence!" 
 
 Now at this, Tus, who feared that Kaikous in his mad 
 rage might do unto the Mighty One an injury, laid his 
 hand gently upon that of Rustem, to lead him from the 
 audience-chamber; but the Pehliva would not suffer it. 
 Breaking away from his grasp, therefore, he stood boldly 
 before Kaikous, his anger rivalling that of the King. And 
 he said: 
 
 "Petty Monarch, darest thou really to rage at me 
 Rustem? Verily thou shalt bitterly rue thy temerity! 
 And now, in turn I ask of thee, ( Who, after all, is Kaikous
 
 THE WRATH OF RUSTEM 217 
 
 that he ventureth to talk of the gallows unto me Rustem ? ' 
 Listen, and I will tell it unto thee: 
 
 "Verily, Kaikous is that madman who led his brave 
 army into Mazinderan and Hamaveran, and who also 
 winged his foolish flight, once upon a time, into heaven; 
 Kaikous is that Shah who hath ever in his folly brought 
 derision and shame unto Iran and sorrow and woe unto 
 his subjects; Kaikous is the monarch who ever sendeth 
 for his Pehliva when danger threateneth, instead of going 
 boldly forth himself to meet his foes aye Kaikous is a 
 brave fellow! for, hath he not the heart of a mouse and 
 the head of that stubborn creature who flappeth his long 
 ears and brayeth unto the moon ? 
 
 "And now, having disposed of the glorious Kous, I will 
 answer unto thee as to Rustem: 
 
 "Verily, Rustem is the son of Zal and Saum and Neri- 
 man, heroes who have ever supported the throne of light, 
 and but for whom Kaikous would never have sat upon its 
 seat; Rustem is a free man, being slave unto none and 
 servant alone unto God, who hath given unto him his 
 glorious strength and courage; Rustem is the Pehliva 
 whose deeds shine as the sun in a dark world, and who 
 again and again hath been entreated to take his true place 
 upon the throne of Iran; Rustem is the Champion who 
 hath the world at his feet, and yet who hath desired no 
 throne except Rakush, no crown but his helmet, and no 
 sceptre but his grandsire's mighty club; yea, Rustem is 
 the Pehliva who, times without number, hath risked his 
 life to save the illustrious Kous from the penalty of his 
 foolish deeds. 
 
 "But at last, O Senseless One, hath Rustem reached the 
 end of his patience. And now he sayeth unto thee, be-
 
 218 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 hold, when the brave Tartar chieftain cometh, go thyself 
 out to meet him thou who art brave, and wise, and full of 
 strength and valor like unto the Shahs of Old! Perchance 
 thou canst then use thy boasted gallows for him. But as 
 for Rustem, verily thou shalt see him no more in the land 
 of Persia, for he is sick unto death of thy follies." 
 
 Thus spake the Great Rustem in his wrath, and having 
 finished, fearlessly he turned him, and strode unhindered 
 from out the presence-chamber. And having mounted 
 upon Rakush, lo, he vanished, ere the dumfounded Kai- 
 kous had rallied from his astonishment. 
 
 Now the nobles and chiefs of Iran were greatly troubled 
 by the wrath of Rustem, for they were sheep and the 
 Great Pehliva was their shepherd. So they murmured 
 against Kaikous, saying: 
 
 "Truly the Shah, in his anger, hath forgotten all grati- 
 tude and decency! else how dare he threaten the Great 
 Rustem, to whom he oweth his life and his throne, with 
 the vile gallows ? Verily, the wrath of the Mighty One is 
 righteous! But what, alas, is to become of Iran, if her 
 only invincible Champion forsaketh her now that so great 
 a peril threateneth?" 
 
 So talked the nobles of Iran, and finally in their dilemma 
 they decided to choose a mediator, Gudarz the Aged, who 
 should stand before the King; and, though the mission was 
 fraught with danger, Gudarz quailed not, but spake long 
 and without fear unto the Shah, counting over, as a string 
 of pearls, each glorious deed of Rustem. And having so 
 spoken, then fearlessly he reproached the weak monarch 
 with ingratitude. And he said : 
 
 " O King of Kings, can it really be possible that so soon 
 thou hast blotted out from thy book of remembrance all
 
 THE WRATH OF RUSTEM 219 
 
 that Rustem hath done for thee and this land? How he 
 conquered Mazinderan and the Great White Deev; and 
 how he gave back unto thee the sight of thy eyes? Yet 
 now as his reward thou commandest that he be hanged 
 alive upon a gallows, thou who art King only by his 
 grace! Now I ask thee to answer me truly is this the 
 justice of a great and wise Monarch, or that worthy of the 
 great King of Kings ? 
 
 Alas! beholding his acts, spread out thus naked before 
 him, Kaikous was ashamed of that which he had said in 
 his anger. So, humbling himself before Gudarz, he said : 
 
 "O white-haired Pehliva, verily thou speakest well! 
 The words of a mighty monarch should be those of wis- 
 dom and not such as provoke wrath. Go, therefore, unto 
 Rustem and say unto him that Kaikous repenteth him of 
 his bitter words and calleth him back to be his most hon- 
 ored Pehliva." 
 
 So, thus armed, swiftly Gudarz rode forth in search of 
 the angry Rustem, and behold, all the mighty chiefs of 
 Iran joined themselves unto him, so that there was a 
 great company. Now they rode fast and far before 
 they overtook the anger-spurred hero, but when they 
 were finally come up with him, lo, the entire company 
 prostrated themselves in the dust before him. And Gu- 
 darz said: 
 
 "O Hero of Heroes! Listen, I pray thee, unto the 
 words of an aged warrior who loveth both thee and Iran 
 well. Now truly thy wrath is just, and so have I said unto 
 Kaikous, whose thoughts in his anger o'erflow like unto 
 new wine that fermenteth, being sour and bitter unto the 
 taste. But, though hasty, the Shah soon repenteth him of 
 his anger, and behold, already is he both ashamed and
 
 220 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 sorry for his ingratitude unto the Pehliva, who is the light 
 of his eyes and the support of his throne! 
 
 "Now as for Kaikous alas! For yet oft must the sun 
 revolve above his head ere he learneth the wisdom of the 
 great even as hath been so aptly said by Zal, thy silver- 
 crowned father. But behold, the whole world knoweth 
 that Rustem is noble of mind as well as wise, and brave, 
 and strong of limb! And though he be justly angered 
 against the Shah, yet hath Iran done no wrong that it should 
 be left to fall into the hands of black-hearted Afrasiab." 
 
 So spake the aged Gudarz in his wisdom. But alas! 
 though so aptly spoken, the words fell upon deaf ears, for 
 Rustem was still in a towering rage. Turning unto the 
 old man, therefore, he said: 
 
 " Speak not unto me of Kaikous, Brave Gudarz either 
 of his anger or his repentance for what is he unto me 
 but a grain of vile dust ? Behold, Rustem feareth only his 
 Creator, and from henceforth Him alone will he serve. 
 As for Kaikous, let him do his worst, for verily I am not 
 only sick, but ashamed in my soul of his weakness and 
 follies, and I will fight no more of his battles." 
 
 Now when the nobles heard these words, they wailed in 
 sorrow, and cast dust upon their heads. But Gudarz 
 despaired not, for he had not grown old at the Court 
 without learning much of human nature, which he knew 
 to be the same in a great hero as in ordinary mortals. So, 
 in his wisdom, he still held in reserve a barbed arrow, 
 sharp enough to pierce even the armor of the invincible 
 Rustem; and this he now shot forth, saying gently unto 
 the hero: 
 
 "O Glorious One, all that thou sayest, verily it is just 
 and true! But it appeareth unto me that there remaineth
 
 THE WRATH OF RUSTEM 221 
 
 somewhat still to be considered. For, when it shall be 
 learned throughout the land that the Mighty Rustem 
 undisputed Champion of the Whole World hath fled 
 before the face of a much-heralded Tartar chief, young 
 and full of prowess, will not all the warriors say : 
 
 "'Alas! alas! We had not thought it, but truly Rustem 
 is getting past his prime. What a pity that a hero's glory 
 vanisheth so quickly, when he beginneth to grow old! 
 Now soon will Rustem also be heard of no more, for since 
 he feareth this valiant young Tartar, surely he must be 
 a mighty hero, who will soon supplant the Elephant- 
 limbed as Champion of the World.' 
 
 "Yea, greatly I fear, O mighty One, that not only this, 
 but much more bitter unto the taste will be said. There- 
 fore I, Gudarz the Aged, ask thee: Is it wise, at this hour, 
 to turn from thy allegiance unto the Shah, thus tarnishing 
 thy glory and causing the downfall of Iran to rest upon 
 thy head ? Verily, nay; for thy retreat would be the path 
 of folly, which thy soul hateth. Put from thee, therefore, 
 the empty words of Kaikous, and lead us forth unto battle 
 against this Tartar. For verily it must not be said that 
 Rustem feared to fight a beardless boy!" 
 
 Thus sharp was the poison-tipped arrow of Gudarz, 
 and not fruitlessly did it speed unto its mark. For behold ! 
 Rustem stood confounded by this view of the matter, such 
 thoughts being new unto him. Rallying from his sur- 
 prise, however, he said proudly unto the Shah's messenger: 
 
 "Verily, if by searching, Rustem could find one atom of 
 fear in his heart, quickly would he tear his soul from his 
 body in shame! But the slayer of the Great White Deev 
 needeth not to vindicate his courage, for it is known unto 
 all the world."
 
 222 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 So spake Rustem. Nevertheless, he continued to ponder 
 the words of Gudarz, for he knew them to be the message 
 of an old man grown wise in the thoughts of men. And so, 
 the current of his anger being changed, soon he decided to 
 do for the sake of Iran, what he knew to be right. For, 
 though he really feared not for his glory, yet well he knew 
 that none but Rustem could meet this crisis in the history 
 of his country. And besides, deep in his soul was the long- 
 ing to meet this vaunted Tartar champion and joy once 
 more in battle. 
 
 Therefore, great were the shouts of joy when, in obedi- 
 ence to his master's hand, Rakush faced once more toward 
 Persia. But verily it was with proud step and uplifted 
 head that the hero appeared once more before the Shah. 
 When Kaikous beheld Rustem, however, so great was his 
 relief that he stepped down from off his throne to welcome 
 him, saying unto him in deep humility of spirit: 
 
 "O glorious Pehliva! Verily, I am foolish of soul, as 
 thou sayest, and not worthy to sit upon the throne of light. 
 But must not a man be as Ormuzd hath made him? Now 
 thou art brave, but alas! my heart was full of fear because 
 of this mighty Tartar, and I looked unto thee for safety, 
 for art thou not the bulwark of my throne ? But, though 
 haste is my birthright, long thou wert in coming, and so in 
 my wrath I spake unto thee foolish words, though now 
 my mouth is full of dust." 
 
 So spake the contrite Shah, and Rustem, beholding his 
 humility, replied unto Him: 
 
 "O King of Kings! Verily the world is thy footstool, 
 and all its inhabitants thy slaves, for such is the prerogative 
 of the Shahs. As for Rustem, ever hath his loins been girt 
 in fealty unto Iran, and so may it ever be while he liveth."
 
 THE WRATH OF RUSTEM 223 
 
 So, peace being once more restored, Kaikous made a 
 great feast, inviting unto it all his heroes. But of all the 
 mighty ones present, none were lauded save only Rustem, 
 the Champion of the World, before whom rich gifts were 
 poured yea, until mountain high rose the enormous pile! 
 Then, and not until then, did Kaikous say unto the slaves 
 "enough!" for Rustem would have no more. And now 
 all was well again within the gates of the Shah, for lo! the 
 wrath of Rustem had been appeased.
 
 RUSTEM THE SPY 
 
 BEHOLD ! on the morning following the reconciling 
 feast of Kaikous and Rustem, the Shah caused the 
 clarions of war to be sounded throughout the city, 
 calling the loyal sons of Iran to go forth to meet the Tartar 
 host. Now over one hundred thousand horsemen in glit- 
 tering mail responded unto the call, so that the earth was 
 covered with warriors like unto blades of grass, and all 
 the air was darkened with their spears. A troop of ponder- 
 ous war-elephants also accompanied the legions, making 
 the ground tremble beneath their mighty tread. 
 
 Thus marched the army, and so imposing was it that 
 when at evening they pitched their tents, and the torches 
 gleamed in the canvas streets, the camp seemed like unto 
 a great city. So, marching by day and resting at night, the 
 legions finally drew near unto the White Castle, where 
 Sohrab still remained, preparing his forces for an advance 
 upon the capital. When they were come unto the plains 
 where stood the great fortress, however, they set up their 
 tents silently in the dead of night, planning a surprise for 
 the Tartars. 
 
 Now thus it happened that, the black veil of night being 
 lifted, behold, the watchman upon the high towers of the 
 White Fortress saw spread out on the plains before him an 
 immense white city, set up as by magic. Surprised and 
 dismayed, therefore, he set up a great shout, which at once 
 brought Sohrab and Human, the two great Tartar chiefs, 
 out upon the ramparts. 
 
 224
 
 RUSTEM THE SPY 225 
 
 And behold! when Human saw upon every side the 
 mighty Persian legions, looking so brave and formidable, 
 he grew suddenly pale, and trembled like unto an aspen. 
 But Sohrab, demanding a cup of wine, drank unto their 
 destruction, speaking words of cheer unto his companion. 
 And he said: 
 
 "Look, Brave Human! There are many men in this 
 hostile army, it is true, but within its ranks I see no hero 
 with mighty mace who can stand against the fearless son 
 of Rustem. When that mighty champion himself appear- 
 eth, then will it be time indeed for us to rally our courage. 
 But as for these others why, they are but dogs! And 
 see, I spit upon them! for without Rustem to inspire them, 
 they have neither courage nor heart." 
 
 So saying, Sohrab went down from the ramparts, and 
 proceeding unto his pavilion, which was pitched upon the 
 plain in front of the Fort, he invited his great warriors and 
 chiefs unto a banquet. Yea, gayly he issued his invitations, 
 saying unto his guests: 
 
 "To-day let us feast; let us banquet to-day, 
 For to-morrow to battle we'll hasten away." 
 
 But behold! at Sohrab's banquet there was to be one 
 uninvited guest. For when night had swathed the earth 
 in darkness, Rustem the Mighty went boldly unto the 
 King, demanding permission to go forth unarmed to spy 
 out the forces of the enemy, and to learn the character of 
 the chieftains opposed unto him particularly of Sohrab, 
 whose renown had aroused such dread in the heart of 
 Kaikous. 
 
 So, permission being granted, the dauntless Rustem 
 clad himself in the dress of a Tartar, and thus disguised,
 
 226 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 under the cover of darkness, he stole forth like a lion 
 which stalketh a herd of antelopes, penetrating into the 
 very presence of the great Sohrab and his warriors as they 
 sat at their feast. Now so stealthy had been his advance 
 that none dreamed of his presence as they feasted and 
 made merry around the festal board nay, not even the 
 valiant Sohrab, as he sat relating unto his warriors some of 
 the mighty deeds of the heroes of old. 
 
 Wherefore, as Rustem stood by the door watching, he 
 beheld that the young Champion was like unto a tall cypress 
 of good sap, while round about him were seated more than 
 a hundred brave warriors, scarcely equalled in the Persian 
 army so fiery and courageous appeared they as they lis- 
 tened unto the inspiring tales of Sohrab. And it was in- 
 deed a festive scene! For torches gave back the flash of 
 arms, and the gleam of eyes eager for the morrow's battle, 
 even as they were now bright with the red wine which 
 slaves poured from golden bugles into the crystal glasses 
 before them. And behold, not only was there glorious 
 fare to delight the palate, but music to charm the ear! 
 So gayety and merriment ruled the hour; neither did they 
 dream of coming sorrow. 
 
 But as Rustem watched the scene from the shadow of 
 the door, presently it came to pass that Zendeh, one of the 
 warriors, having occasion to go forth, came nigh unto the 
 spot where the Hero was concealed. Now Zendeh was 
 brother unto the Princess Tamineh, who had sent him 
 forth with her son that he might point out unto him his 
 father, whom he alone knew of all the army. And the 
 Princess did this that harm might not befall should the two 
 champions meet in battle. But alas! as Zendeh retired 
 from the banquet, it chanced that he perceived the shadow
 
 RUSTEM THE SPY 227 
 
 of some one in ambush. So, advancing unto the place 
 where Rustem was hidden, he said quietly: 
 
 "Vile Persian! Come forth into the light that I may 
 see thy face. For well I know, by thy stature, that thou 
 belongest unto Iran." 
 
 Now unto this Rustem answered never a word. But 
 ere Zendeh had ceased from speaking, he struck him so 
 fierce a blow upon the nape of the neck that he laid him 
 dead at his feet. So, though there was to be no more feast- 
 ing and fighting for Zendeh, yet so swift and silent had 
 been Death's messenger, that the revellers within dreamed 
 not that the Dark Angel still hovered at the door. 
 
 But presently Sohrab, beholding his uncle's place at the 
 table still vacant, asked wherefore he tarried; and, atten- 
 tion being thus called to his long absence, one of the chiefs 
 went forth to seek him. Now in so doing he found the 
 body of the unfortunate warrior cold upon the pavement. 
 Quickly returning unto Sohrab, therefore, he related unto 
 him in an awed voice the fatal happening. But Sohrab 
 would not believe that, almost within their midst, without 
 a struggle or cry, death could have so suddenly o'ertaken 
 his uncle. So, commanding that torches be brought, he 
 ran quickly unto the spot of the tragedy, followed by all 
 the warriors and bright singing-girls. But alas! here 
 Sohrab found that the bad news was indeed true; and 
 being sore grieved, he said unto his nobles: 
 
 "Woe! Woe unto Turan! For behold! the wolf hath 
 stolen into the fold and, in spite of the shepherds and the 
 dogs, hath taken the best of the flock. But verily, God 
 helping me, I will be fully avenged for the death of Zendeh ! " 
 
 Now having thus spoken, Sohrab came back unto his 
 place at the table and continued the feast. For, though his
 
 228 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 own heart was heavy with sorrow, he wished not the spirits 
 of his warriors to be dampened by pity, or fear of this 
 terrible, silent, unknown foe. Raising his glass unto his 
 lips, therefore, he cried lustily: 
 
 " Drink, my brave comrades, drink! Death to the slayer 
 of Zendeh, and destruction, utter and sure, unto the Persian 
 host." 
 
 So the warriors and chiefs all drank, standing upon their 
 feet; and as the hours passed by, Sohrab continued to fan 
 into a yet more glowing flame the lust of battle which 
 slumbered in each warrior's soul, so that finally one and 
 all desired naught but death unto the Persians, and a glori- 
 ous victory for Sohrab, their gallant young leader, whom 
 they toasted with such mighty shouts of pride and joy 
 that it was heard even within the lines of Iran. 
 
 As for Rustem, having accomplished his purpose, after 
 silencing Zendeh, he returned quickly and silently unto 
 the Persian camp, knowing not that his victim was the 
 loved brother of Tamineh, who was to have stood between 
 Sohrab and his fate. 
 
 But behold, as Rustem would have entered the Persian 
 lines he encountered Gew, who was acting that night as 
 sentry. Now as this doughty warrior suddenly perceived 
 looming up mountain-high out of the darkness a warrior 
 clad in the garb of a Tartar, his heart quaked with fear, 
 for he thought that surely he had to do with Sohrab, the 
 terrible Tartar Champion. Nevertheless, he quickly drew 
 his sword ready for combat, challenging the invader to give 
 his name and errand. 
 
 Now this demand was greeted by a burst of mighty 
 laughter, for Rustem, surmising from the quaver in 
 Gews' voice what his thought had been, could not but
 
 RUSTEM THE SPY 229 
 
 enjoy the situation. Still laughing, therefore,- he said 
 unto Gew: 
 
 "Brave comrade! tremble not so. For lo! thou be- 
 holdest before thee a most harmless creature Rustem the 
 Spy who returneth from the banquet of Sohrab and his 
 chiefs. Now Sohrab presenteth his compliments unto 
 Gew, the brave warrior of the Persians, saying that he will 
 be unable to meet him until to-morrow, when he will hurl 
 forth unto him his challenge to combat." 
 
 So spake the Mighty Rustem unto Gew, twitting him 
 yet again upon his lion's roar and his great disappoint- 
 ment at being deprived of his much-longed-for combat 
 with Sohrab. Then when they had laughed together, 
 Rustem described unto Gew his adventure, ceasing not to 
 sing the praise of Sohrab, who, he said, had not his equal 
 in the world. 
 
 Whereupon, having thus spoken, the Great Champion 
 said good-night unto his comrade, bidding him roar gently 
 in case of danger. And so with merry jest ended the 
 adventure of Rustem the Spy.
 
 THE COMBAT OF SOHRAB AGAINST 
 RUSTEM 
 
 GIVE ear unto the combat of Sohrab against Rus- 
 tem, though it be a tale replete with tears. So 
 runneth the legend as told by Firdusi. But upon 
 the morning after the night of feasting in his pavilion, 
 tears were far from the eyes of brave Sohrab. For was he 
 not bent upon the accomplishment of great deeds? Yea, 
 and did he not hope soon to behold the face of his illus- 
 trious father ? 
 
 But alas! a bitter disappointment awaited the hero in 
 the early morning, for in vain did he try to learn from 
 Hujir, the defeated champion of the White Fort, which of 
 the mighty warriors encamped upon the plains before 
 them was Rustem, the great hero of the Persians. For 
 that brave patriot, fearing for the safety of Iran, refused 
 utterly to discover the identity of the Great Champion unto 
 his enemy, even though Sohrab strongly suspected a cer- 
 tain great warrior in a green tent, who was, indeed, 
 Rustem. 
 
 Defeated in this endeavor, therefore, Sohrab returned 
 unto the Fort, where, donning his chain mail and arming 
 himself, he and his band of sturdy warriors sallied forth 
 unto the plain. Now so sudden and swift was the onset 
 that the Persians were taken unawares, so that Sohrab in 
 hurling the army of Turan against the intrenched camp 
 of the Shah, was able to penetrate almost at once unto its 
 230
 
 SOHRAB AGAINST RUSTEM 231 
 
 very centre. And truly it was a magnificent sight to behold 
 the irresistible charge of this stripling, who, though but 
 a mere youth, yet appeared a very god of war. 
 
 But, though taken by surprise, the Persians soon rallied, 
 and then so fearful was the contest that the very earth 
 seemed to shake beneath the shock, and the carnage was 
 fearful. For, though from end to end the plain glittered 
 with bright steel armor, it covered, alas, the forms of fallen 
 heroes as often as it shielded the daring hearts of living 
 riders, since as the tide of battle ebbed and flowed, thou- 
 sands fell upon either side, night alone putting an end to 
 the fearful conflict. 
 
 Now through all the long hours of battle, although 
 Sohrab seemed to be everywhere upon the field, never once 
 did he catch a glimpse of the owner of the green tent, and 
 much he wondered. Nay; not even when he thundered 
 forth words of pride in the very face of the Shah, telling 
 him he had sworn to hang him alive upon a gallows, to 
 avenge the death of Zendeh, and challenging him to com- 
 bat, did he or any other champion stand forth. So 
 great was the terror that his valor had aroused in the hearts 
 of his foes! 
 
 But in spite of the day's successes, that night Sohrab lay 
 wakeful in his tent, restlessly tossing upon his bed of 
 skins, while busy thoughts surged through his brain. 
 Finally, however, when the first faint streak of dawn had 
 crimsoned the eastern sky, behold, the Hero arose, passing 
 through the silent line of tents, until he reached the one 
 set apart for Piran-Wisa, the old chief who had but 
 reached the scene of battle the by-gone eve. Here, lift- 
 ing the heavy curtain, Sohrab entered silently, but seeing 
 that his old friend was also awake, he said:
 
 232 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 "O glorious chief, whose wisdom hath ever been my 
 guiding star, behold, once more I come to seek thy coun- 
 sel and to make known unto thee a plan which hath kept 
 me wakeful upon my bed. 
 
 "Now it is indeed well to fight valiantly and win suc- 
 cess upon the field of battle as we did to-day, but for me, 
 Sohrab, that is not enough; for I long without ceasing to 
 perform some mighty deed that shall reach the ears of 
 Rustem, my father, whom I seem destined never to find. 
 So now I have reached a conclusion: I would have thee 
 challenge the bravest of the Persian Pehliva to meet me, 
 man to man, in single combat. If I prevail, Rustem will 
 surely learn of it; while if I fail, no man need hear of me 
 again." 
 
 So spake impetuous Sohrab, and Piran-Wisa listened 
 quietly. When he had finished, however, he said unto 
 him: 
 
 "My son, much I love thy valorous spirit, which hath 
 ever striven and longed for the noblest and best. Neverthe- 
 less, in this matter I counsel thee to think of thy mother, 
 and be content to share the common risk of battle which 
 falleth unto all alike. Or if thou wouldst seek that loved 
 father whom thou hast never seen, seek him where men 
 say he now dwelleth, in far-off Seistan with his aged father 
 Zal." 
 
 But to this wise advice Sohrab replied passionately: 
 
 "Alas, good old Piran! Canst thou not understand 
 that I wish not to go unto my father empty-handed ? I am 
 so proud of him, and with reason I must make him proud 
 of his son also. For are we not of the same noble blood ? 
 And see! am I not tall, and strong, and brave, like unto 
 my father ? Fear not, therefore, for truly I will overcome
 
 SOHRAB AGAINST RUSTEM 233 
 
 the bravest of the warriors sent out by the Persians to meet 
 me. Then surely the great Rustem will hear of it and 
 I shall perhaps meet him." 
 
 Now though Piran-Wisa liked not the plan, yet could he 
 not withstand Sohrab's eloquent pleading. For verily who 
 can restrain the eagle in his flight toward the sun ? 
 
 Having given his consent unto the challenge, therefore, 
 the old general summoned unto him his herald, and 
 taking his ruler's staff in his hand, he went forth, marshal- 
 ling the whole Tartar army upon the plain. Then the 
 Persians, noting this move of the enemy, also formed into 
 battle array opposite, bright in burnished steel and splen- 
 did in rank upon rank of brave warriors. 
 
 And presently, all being in readiness, Piran-Wisa ad- 
 vanced unto the front, while the herald blew a blast upon 
 his trumpet to make known that he had something to 
 say. Then silence, deep and thrilling, reigned in both 
 great armies as Piran, in ringing tones, offered Sohrab's 
 challenge. 
 
 And when the Tartar host heard called the name of 
 their champion, behold, they rent the air with their shouts, 
 cheering long and loud for Sohrab. No Persian, they felt 
 sure, could match their gallant young leader, who now, in 
 all the pride of his youth and strength, advanced and stood 
 by Piran- Wisa's side. 
 
 But alas! unexpected was this call unto the Persians, 
 and as a consequence deep silence reigned within the lines 
 of Iran. For so great was the fear of Sohrab that no man 
 dared take up the challenge. After the first shock, how- 
 ever, from mouth to mouth there was breathed the one 
 word: Rustem! Rustem! So quickly Kaikous sent a mes- 
 senger unto the Great Pehliva, saying:
 
 234 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 "O Mighty One! Come quickly, for behold, the faces 
 of my warriors grow pale before this young Tartar, and 
 only thy sword can cause the sun to weep." 
 
 Now when Gudarz, the messenger, entered the tent of 
 Rustem, the hero rose and greeted him joyfully, both 
 hands outstretched in welcome. "These eyes could see no 
 better sight," he cried; and added quickly, "What 
 news?" 
 
 Then Gudarz delivered his message, hearing which, 
 Rustem frowned, for he remembered the bravery of the 
 Shahs of Old, and the cowardice of Kaikous made him 
 sick with shame. Nevertheless, he said nothing, being too 
 angry for words. Whereupon, Gudarz continued: 
 
 "Truly, this young hero is marvellous! and this time, 
 Kaikous is not to be condemned for his terror. For, as 
 I live, the Champion existeth not who can match Sohrab 
 save only Rustem the Mighty, unto whom all eyes turn." 
 
 But Rustem, who was once more angered at Kaikous, 
 replied bitterly unto Gudarz: 
 
 "If the Shah himself feareth to meet this young lion, 
 let him send forth any one of the young striplings whom 
 he, in these days, delighteth to honor. When other Shahs 
 have called me, it hath been sometimes unto battle and 
 sometimes unto the banquet, but behold, Kaikous never 
 calleth me except to fight for him. Therefore, I say, let one 
 of the King's favorites meet Sohrab to-day; I will fight him 
 to-morrow." 
 
 Gudarz, however, would not listen unto Rustem when 
 he spoke thus of delay, but urged him even as he had upon 
 another great occasion, saying unto him: 
 
 "Take heed, O Mighty One, lest men say that thou 
 fearest to peril thy fame with younger men!"
 
 SOHRAB AGAINST RUSTEM 235 
 
 Then Rustem, frowning with displeasure, consented to 
 meet the Champion, but only upon condition that he fight 
 unknown and in plain arms. So, his consent being won, 
 the hero was allowed neither to linger nor to waste time 
 in words; for quickly the nobles buckled upon him his 
 armor, threw his leopard-skin around him, saddled Ra- 
 kush and made him ready for the strife. Now when he ap- 
 peared among the Persians they greeted him with mighty 
 shouts of pride and joy, causing the Tartars to wonder 
 much as to the identity of this stalwart Champion fighting 
 in plain armor and giving no name. 
 
 But behold! the combatants being now ready, at a 
 signal the Persian and the Tartar hosts formed themselves 
 into two long lines, down which the two great Champions 
 advanced to meet each other. 
 
 Now as Rustem moved forward, once more he eyed 
 with wonder the slender youth who dared thus to defy all 
 the most valiant chiefs of the army. Who could he be? 
 Where was he reared? What was there about him so 
 strangely familiar? As he gazed, therefore, suddenly a 
 great pity filled his soul that this noble-spirited youth, so 
 full of life and manly beauty, must shortly be lying upon 
 the sand, his life-blood paying the penalty for his temerity. 
 Verily, never had Rustem, the fierce warrior, felt moved 
 like this before, and so he spake gently unto his adversary, 
 saying: 
 
 "O Young Man, the air of heaven is soft and warm, but 
 the grave is damp and cold. Wherefore, then, wilt thou 
 rush upon death? Truly pity filleth my soul at the thought, 
 and I would not take from thee the boon of life. Yet if we 
 combat together, surely wilt thou fall by my hands, for 
 behold! I am vast and clad in iron, and tried, and none
 
 236 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 have been able to withstand my power neither man, nor 
 Deev, nor dragon. Desist, therefore, from this perilous 
 enterprise, and come over unto Iran. Then shalt thou be 
 as a son unto me, and fight beneath my banner while I live, 
 winning both honor and fame." 
 
 So spake Rustem, and Sohrab, listening unto his voice, 
 and gazing upon his mighty form, planted like a great 
 tower upon the plain, felt his heart go out unto him 
 strangely. And, a sudden hope filling his soul, eagerly he 
 ran forward, knelt before the hero, and gazing up at him 
 wistfully, said: 
 
 "O Glory of the World, verily my heart leapeth forth to 
 greet thee as unto a loved kinsman! Tell unto me, there- 
 fore, thy name, for it seemeth unto me that thou must be 
 Rustem, the mighty son of White-haired Zal. For surely 
 unto none other is it given to be so gloriously perfect as 
 thou!" 
 
 But Rustem, misunderstanding Sohrab's ardor, replied 
 coldly unto him, saying: 
 
 "Rash Boy! Men look upon Rustem's face and flee. 
 And well I know that if that mighty hero stood here to- 
 day, then would there be no further talk of fighting. But, 
 unfortunately for thy pride, thou hast now to do with no 
 noble Pehliva, but with a comman man, possessing neither 
 throne, nor palace, nor crown." 
 
 Now Rustem spake thus sternly unto the youth that he 
 might be afraid when he beheld his prowess, and think 
 that still greater might was hidden in the camp of the 
 Persians. 
 
 But Sohrab, when he heard the words of Rustem, was 
 sad, and his hopes, that had risen so high as he beheld his 
 mighty antagonist, were shattered. Yea, and the day that
 
 SOHRAB AGAINST RUSTEM 237 
 
 had looked so bright was made dark unto his eyes. How- 
 beit, hiding his disappointment, with flashing eyes he 
 replied unto Rustem: 
 
 "Fierce Warrior! Thinkest thou to terrify me by thy 
 proud words? If so, verily thou errest. Now it is true 
 that thou art more vast and tried than I, but unto whom 
 will be the victory only the event will teach us in its hour. 
 Yet in one thing, I give thee right: Did Rustem stand 
 where thou art standing now, then, indeed, would there be 
 no combat here to-day. But come! Let us not parley 
 words." 
 
 So the two Champions chose a narrow place, marked 
 out the lists, and mounted upon their powerful steeds, 
 ready for the combat. Now they began the attack by 
 hurling their javelins; and when they were blunted against 
 the steel bucklers they drew their long Indian swords and 
 fell to work again. And behold, when their swords were 
 broken, then they used their clubs. Terrible blows they 
 dealt each other with these implements of war and great 
 was the skill and agility with which they fought, calling 
 forth many a shout of admiration from the breathlessly- 
 watching armies. 
 
 Nevertheless, they seemed to be about equally matched 
 in wariness, skill, and strength. For, though Rustem's 
 eye shot fire as he raised high his spear and hurled it down 
 with swift, unerring aim, quick as a flash Sohrab sprang 
 to one side, and the spear buried itself deep in the sand, 
 doing naught of harm. In return for this, however, Soh- 
 rab struck full upon Rustem's shield, so that the iron rang 
 and rang again. Then Rustem, furious, seized his gigantic 
 club, which no one but himself could wield, and with one 
 mighty stroke would have felled Sohrab to the earth, had
 
 238 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 he not again been too quick for him in springing aside. 
 But alas! the club came thundering down with such pro- 
 digious force that it caused Rustem himself to fall for- 
 ward and loose his hold upon it. And behold! in an in- 
 stant, Sohrab could have pierced the fallen hero where he 
 lay. But instead he drew back, without even unsheath- 
 ing his sword, saying unto his unknown foe: 
 
 "O Mighty One! Thou sayest thou art not Rustem. 
 (Veil, be it so! But who art thou, then, that thou canst so 
 touch my soul ? I pray thee, let the fight end here, and let 
 there be peace twixt thee and me." 
 
 But Rustem, trembling with rage and fury, would not 
 hearken unto the words of Sohrab; rather, they increased 
 his wrath and shame. For it was, indeed, bitter for the old 
 Champion to think that he owed his life unto this slight, 
 sunny youth. So, again seizing his spear, with taunting, 
 bitter words he rushed upon Sohrab, attacking him with 
 renewed vigor. Then Sohrab saw that this fight must be 
 to the death, and he, too, allowed the lust of conquest to 
 take full possession of his soul. 
 
 Falling to again, therefore, behold, the heroes fought 
 until their spears were shivered, and their swords hacked 
 like unto saws, and all their weapons were bent and broken. 
 Even then, however, they did not desist, but wrestled with 
 each other until the sweat and blood ran down from their 
 bodies and their throats were parched and dry like unto 
 parchment. But at last so weary were they that neither 
 the warriors nor their horses could move more, yet to 
 neither was given the victory. So, with mail shattered and 
 torn, and with bruised and wounded bodies, the exhausted 
 heroes stayed them awhile to rest. Then Rustem said 
 unto himself:
 
 They drew their long Indian swords and fell to work again.
 
 SOHRAB AGAINST RUSTEM 239 
 
 "Verily, never in all my long life of battle have I seen 
 man or demon with such strength and activity as is pos- 
 sessed by this redoubtable Sohrab! Why, even my great 
 battle with the White Deev was but as child's play unto 
 this, and though never yet have I been conquered, alas, 
 now my heart faileth me before this youth without a 
 name!" 
 
 But Sohrab, when he had rested for a few minutes, 
 thus gaily addressed his antagonist: 
 
 "Ho, Angry One! when thou art rested, come and try 
 if thou canst fight with bow and arrow." 
 
 So presently the Champions fell to again, fighting with 
 arrows; but still one could not surpass the other, though 
 they rained from their bows like hail. Then, in despera- 
 tion, Rustem seized Sohrab by the belt, hoping to drag 
 him from his saddle, as he had done unto many a hero in 
 battle. But alas! it availed him naught. For as soon 
 could a mountain be moved from its base as Sohrab from 
 his saddle. And neither could Sohrab lift his antagonist, 
 though mightily he strove to perform this feat of strength. 
 
 So, being thus unsuccessful both with arrows and in wrest- 
 ling, once more the champions betook themselves to clubs, 
 and after a time Sohrab succeeded in dealing Rustem 
 a mighty blow that bruised his shoulder. Now so great 
 was the agony that Rustem writhed under it, though he 
 was strong enough to stifle any cry of pain. Nevertheless, 
 Sohrab saw that he had struck a telling blow, and, smiling, 
 he taunted the wounded one, saying: 
 
 "O Smitten Lion! Truly thou art brave, but how 
 canst thou hope to stand against the blows of the strong ? 
 But alas! it is thy age that disableth thee. Go, therefore, 
 and measure thy strength with thy equals, for verily it is
 
 240 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 folly for the aged to try to match themselves with the 
 young and strong." 
 
 Now so furious was Rustem at the taunts of Sohrab 
 that, in his frenzy, he turned suddenly upon the army of 
 the Tartars, charging its ranks even as a tiger rusheth upon 
 his prey. And behold! when Sohrab saw this, he in his 
 turn, fell upon the Persians, scattering them like a flock 
 of sheep before him. Whereupon, Rustem, beholding the 
 flight of his countrymen, turned quickly from pursuing the 
 Tartars, crying fiercely unto Sohrab: 
 
 " O Man of Blood ! Why hast thou fallen upon the Per- 
 sians like a wolf upon the fold?" 
 
 Turning in astonishment, therefore, at this most sur- 
 prising question, Sohrab said: 
 
 "Thou Mad Elephant! Didst not thou, thyself, first 
 charge the Tartar host, though they had not joined in 
 battle? Wherefore, then, reproach me?" 
 
 Now Sohrab was still gay and unruffled, and Rustem's 
 heart sank as he beheld how fresh and full of vigor was 
 this laughing stripling, for all the hard day's fight. So he 
 said: 
 
 " Behold! night descendeth upon the plain. It is too 
 late, therefore, to renew the combat to-day. If thou art 
 still for war, however, we will fight again to-morrow, and 
 God shall decide who is the better man." 
 
 So, by mutual consent, the heroes now separated, each 
 riding back to his own army, where they were received 
 with shouts of admiration, which rang and rang again. 
 But, strange to say, it was Sohrab's gay farewell that rang 
 longest in Rustem's ears, for his soul was filled with won- 
 der and admiration at the lightness and strength of this 
 mavellous youth. Seeking Kaikous, therefore, who was
 
 SOHRAB AGAINST RUSTEM 241 
 
 all unnerved by the day's conflict, in reply to his eager 
 questions Rustem said: 
 
 " O Lord of the World, truly my heart misgiveth me, for 
 never during my long life have I witnessed such over- 
 whelming valor as hath been exhibited this day by yon 
 laughing boy, whose body, I should say, was formed of 
 iron, were it not for his remarkable lightness. For behold! 
 I have fought him with sword, and spear, and arrow, and 
 mace not only once, but again and again and yet re- 
 maineth he alive and merry. In the warrior's art he ap- 
 peareth to be my superior, and Ormuzd alone knoweth 
 what will be the outcome of the conflict to-morrow. May 
 he grant unto his servant sufficient strength and courage 
 for the hour!" 
 
 Now after his conference with the Shah, Rustem re- 
 turned unto his tent, where he held serious converse with 
 Zuara, his young brother, saying unto him : 
 
 "O my brother! Behold, it hath been given unto me 
 to fight this day with a champion, the power of whose arm 
 is prodigious! I say unto thee, therefore, that should 
 anything untoward happen upon the morrow when the 
 conflict is renewed, verily it will fall unto thee to see that 
 my army is returned in safety unto Zabulistan. And 
 thou must also console my mother in her sorrow, bid- 
 ding her not to bind her heart forever unto the dead, 
 since her son hath no cause to complain of fate. And 
 say unto Zal, my silver-crowned father, that since old 
 and young must die, what mattereth it if it be written 
 in the stars that only another sun shall shine for Rus- 
 tem, since he hath lived long and fought gloriously for 
 Iran!" 
 
 Meanwhile, in the camp of the Tartars, Sohrab, also,
 
 242 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 lauded the might of his unknown antagonist, saying unto 
 Human: 
 
 "Alas, Brave Human! Though I understand it not, 
 truly my heart is strangely drawn unto the mighty warrior 
 with whom I have fought this day. I seem to see in him, 
 too, all the signs by which my mother told me I was to 
 recognize my father, and my heart is filled with misgivings. 
 Verily, I must not fight against my father!" 
 
 But Human, following the directions of the King, re- 
 plied unto Sohrab: 
 
 "O Glory of the World! Naught but the longings of 
 thine own heart give credence unto thy words. Now oft 
 have I looked upon the face of Rustem in battle, and mine 
 eyes have beheld his deeds of valor, but alas! this man in 
 nowise resembleth him, save in bulk alone. Neither is his 
 horse the famous Rakush; nor is his manner of wielding 
 his club the same. In fostering this thought, thy imagina- 
 tion carrieth thee away." 
 
 Now though Sohrab suspected not the plot which Afra- 
 siab had formed for his destruction, yet was he not wholly 
 satisfied with Human's words. Howbeit, as he could 
 not refute them, he held his peace. And that night, also, 
 feasted he gaily with his chiefs. 
 
 Nevertheless, when the harbinger of a new day had light- 
 ened the sky and cleared away the shadows, behold, Sohrab 
 donned his cuirass and his helmet and, arming himself, 
 mounted his horse and rode into the space between the 
 two armies. Then Rustem, beholding his antagonist, also 
 rode out from among the Persians. 
 
 So once more the champions met, and behold, as 
 Sohrab greeted Rustem his mouth was full of smiles, for 
 how could it be otherwise when his heart was as full of
 
 SOHRAB AGAINST RUSTEM 243 
 
 sunshine as the new Eastern day with light? Gaily, 
 therefore, he said unto the Pehliva: 
 
 "Ah, let us not fight to-day, Old Dragon! for as soon 
 would I combat with my own father as with thee. Rather, 
 let us sit together upon the ground, and thou shalt relate 
 unto me thy deeds of valor. For verily my soul delighteth 
 in heroic tales as my mother could say unto thee and 
 thy life hath been full of them, I know. Yea, if I mistake 
 not, even the great Rustem, thy countryman, canst thou 
 rival in thy thrilling adventures and conquests, and much 
 I should like to hear them. As for combat, there are 
 plenty of other brave men with whom thou canst do battle, 
 but with me, I pray thee, make a covenant of friendship, 
 for my heart sayeth unto me that we were not meant to be 
 foes. 
 
 But Rustem, who still thought that Sohrab spake in 
 guile, replied unto him: 
 
 "O Hero of Tender Age! Behold, we are met here to 
 fight, and not to blow forth empty wind upon the air. 
 Save thy words of lure, therefore, for " other brave men," if 
 perchance thou livest to meet them in battle; for verily 
 my ears are sealed against them. As for me, I am an old 
 man, and thou art young, but forget not that it is the 
 Master of the World who holdeth the balance in his 
 hands." 
 
 Then Sohrab, rising lightly unto his feet, said: 
 
 "Old Champion, I see I have spoken in vain, and it 
 grieveth me. Now I would have had thee die upon thy 
 bed, when thy time should come, but behold! thou art 
 brave enough to prefer a hero's death. Well, so be it! at 
 least thou shalt die gloriously, after the fight of thy life 
 and what can even the beloved of Ormuzd ask more?"
 
 244 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 So once more the two champions prepared for combat. 
 And this time we are informed the place of contest was in 
 the centre of a lonely, treeless plain, through which coursed 
 a deep, winding river. Yea, and gloomy gray mountains 
 skirted the distant horizon, so that, in spite of the brilliant 
 Eastern sunshine, it was a scene of dreariness and mystic 
 solitude. For, to prevent the two armies from falling upon 
 each other in the excitement of the conflict, the chiefs had 
 removed them to a distance of several miles from the scene 
 of battle, so that the two champions were the only living 
 figures upon the plain. 
 
 Now as the combat was to be renewed upon foot, the 
 two heroes fastened their steeds unto the rocks, and then, 
 clad in complete mail, they approached each other stealth- 
 ily, and in diminishing circles, each watching for the 
 chance to pounce like a lion upon his foe. And behold! 
 when the two champions met, so terrific was the crash of 
 their encounter that it was heard, like thunder, from end 
 to end of the standing hosts. And then, so terrible was the 
 fight that even the sun refused to shine upon so unnatural 
 a conflict; and the heavens, too, grew dark and lowering, 
 as though in sore displeasure; and the wind rose, moaning 
 and sweeping the plain in anger. 
 
 But still the heroes fought on unconscious of the frown 
 of nature from morning until noonday. Yea, and from 
 noonday until it was time for the shadows to lengthen upon 
 the plain. Yet unto neither was given the advantage. 
 
 Presently, however, Sohrab's shield was almost cloven 
 by a terrific stroke from Rustem's sword. The iron plating 
 flew, but, fortunately, the good steel yet resisted. Then 
 Sohrab, with his sword, smote off the proudly-waving crest 
 of Rustem's helm that plume which never yet had bowed
 
 SOHRAB AGAINST RUSTEM 245 
 
 unto the dust; seeing which, Rustem clenched his teeth 
 and still they fought on! 
 
 And now the gloom grew blacker, angry storm clouds 
 rumbling overhead; but the fierce combatants heard it not. 
 Then, quite suddenly, Rakush the intelligent put forth 
 a fearful cry a cry so unearthly, so full of woe, that a 
 shiver ran through all the Persian lines. But it troubled 
 not the combatants, for, unconscious of it, still they fought 
 on! 
 
 Howbeit, presently leaping like a lion, Sohrab seized Rus- 
 tem by the girdle, lifted him from the ground, and hurled 
 him down, his face and mouth buried deep in the dust. 
 Then he couched upon him yea, even as a beast of the 
 jungle coucheth upon its prey! Yea, and he drew his 
 sword, thinking to sever his enemy's head even as was 
 the Oriental custom. But at thft crisis, Rustem, gifted 
 with the wisdom and cunning of long experience, realizing 
 his peril, opened his mouth and said unto Sohrab: 
 
 "Stay, thou Wild Elephant! Knowest thou not the 
 customs of chivalrous warfare? Now it is written in the 
 laws of honor that he who overthroweth a brave man for 
 the first time shall not destroy him, but wait until the 
 second throw when usage entitleth the victor honorably 
 to take the life of the vanquished. Behold! this is our 
 custom though it appeareth not to be thine." 
 
 Alas! Sohrab, who was as generous of heart as he was 
 brave, hearing the words of Rustem, immediately re- 
 moved his grasp from the Hero, and permitting him to rise, 
 agreed to a short truce. 
 
 As for Rustem, scarcely believing himself alive after 
 such a narrow escape, gratefully he returned thanks unto 
 Ormuzd, looking upon it as nothing short of a miracle.
 
 246 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Then, having bathed his limbs, covered with dust and 
 blood, in the river, he readjusted his torn armor, and sat 
 him down to rest, wondering how this desperate duel 
 would finally end. 
 
 But no such misgivings troubled Sohrab as he rested. 
 Nor was he alone; for Human, beholding the truce, came 
 out unto the Hero to ask of the adventures of the day. 
 When Sohrab related unto him of the fight, however, and 
 of how he had spared Rustem, Human reproached him 
 for his folly, saying: 
 
 "Alas, O Sohrab! The lion whom thou so unwisely 
 released from thy toils hath caught thee in a yet more cun- 
 ning snare. Beware, therefore, when the combat is re- 
 newed, for Fortune rarely giveth us twice the opportunity to 
 overcome our foes. And only think what an enemy is this ! " 
 
 Now Sohrab was abashed when he learned how that 
 Rustem had duped him. But, hiding his chagrin, he said 
 lightly unto Human: 
 
 "Brave Human, be not troubled, for in an hour we 
 meet again in battle, and though twice I have shown mercy 
 unto this old warrior, a third time shall it not happen, for 
 now all the demands of honor have been met." 
 
 Now while Sohrab and the Tartar chief thus spake of 
 Rustem, behold, the Hero himself had gone aside, and kneel- 
 ing beside the running brook, he prayed unto Ormuzd, 
 entreating that such strength be granted unto him that 
 victory should crown his final efforts. Yea, and the All- 
 Merciful One heard the cry of his troubled child, granting 
 unto him such increased strength that lo! the rock whereon 
 he knelt gave way beneath him, because it had not power 
 to bear his weight. Then Rustem, feeling that too much 
 strength might prove his undoing, prayed yet again asking
 
 SOHRAB AGAINST RUSTEM 247 
 
 that part thereof be taken away. And again Ormuzd 
 listened unto his voice. 
 
 So, rested and reinspired, when the hour was ended, 
 once more the champions turned them unto the place of 
 combat, determined to bring the awful struggle to a close 
 ere another night set in. Now Rustem's heart, in spite of 
 his increased strength, was full of care; but Sohrab came 
 forth like a giant refreshed. Running at Rustem like a 
 mad elephant, therefore, he shouted in a voice of thunder: 
 
 "Ho, Wily One! Prepare to meet thy end. For this 
 time thy words of guile shall avail thee naught." 
 
 Now Rustem, when he saw the rage of the hitherto 
 laughing young stripling, learned at last to know fear, and 
 in his heart he quickly prayed unto Ormuzd, asking that 
 the strength withdrawn be restored unto him. Then, im- 
 bued with all his new-found might, Rustem raised high 
 his head, his eyes glaring with the wild light of battle, his 
 sword brandished on high. So for a second he stood, after 
 which, with a terrible roar, he advanced upon Sohrab, 
 instinctively shouting his old, thunderous battle-cry: 
 "Rustem! Rustem!" 
 
 Alas for Sohrab! Stopped midway in his charge by the 
 sound of that much-loved name, for one fateful second, he 
 gazed, bewildered, then instinctively he recoiled, dropping 
 his shield, thus leaving himself uncovered. Quick as a 
 flash, therefore, Rustem drew his blade, and drove it with 
 mighty force through the breast of the youthful hero who, 
 staggering back, sank heavily to the ground. And now, 
 the awful din of arms being hushed, behold, the sun shone 
 forth once more from between the parted thunder-clouds, 
 revealing a fierce warrior standing triumphant over his 
 fallen foe!
 
 248 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 And alas that it must be said! but as Rustem gazed 
 upon the prostrate young hero, not one drop of pity filled 
 his heart; for the black shadow of defeat and humiliation 
 yet hovered too near unto him to allow aught but bitter- 
 ness and anger to rule his soul. Wrathfully, therefore, he 
 said unto Sohrab: 
 
 "Foolish boy! In thy pride thou thoughtest to slay a 
 Persian hero this day and boast thy trophy in Afrasiab's 
 land. Now here thou liest, slain by an unknown man." 
 
 Now Rustem spake thus because, having been so nearly 
 o'ercome by this valorous youth, after all his proud years 
 of triumph, in his bitter mortification he fain would have 
 deprived him of the satisfaction of knowing by whose hand 
 he had fallen. Alas! a small feeling was this to find its 
 way into the heart of so great a hero, and bitterly was 
 Rustem to repent it. 
 
 For, though wounded unto death, behold, Sohrab was 
 still unconquered. Looking up fearlessly into the eyes of 
 his foe, therefore, he said proudly: 
 
 "Vain boaster! Vaunt not thy mighty prowess, for not 
 thy puny strength hath slain me. Nay; Rustem slays me! 
 For that loved name it was unnerved my arm, and so thy 
 boasted spear pierced an unarmed foe. But hear me now, 
 fierce man, and tremble. For behold ! Rustem, my father, 
 whom I seek through all the world, will surely avenge my 
 death though I, alas, shall never see him now ! When he 
 learneth of my doom, however, beware! For if thou 
 shouldst become a fish and lose thyself in the depths of the 
 sea, or a star to hide thyself in the highest heaven, verily 
 my father would draw thee forth from thy hiding-place to 
 wreak vengeance upon thy head. Ah, how his heart will 
 be filled with wrath and sorrow when it shall be told unto
 
 SOHRAB AGAINST RUSTEM 249 
 
 him that Sohrab, his son, perished in the quest after his 
 face!" 
 
 Now Rustem listened unto the words of Sohrab coldly, 
 gazing upon him with scornful, unbelieving eyes. And he 
 said: 
 
 "O vanquished youth! Verily, thou wanderest in thy 
 talk. The mighty Rustem never had a son. Now of this 
 I am sure, for am I not a Persian?" 
 
 But Sohrab answered still proudly, though his voice 
 had grown faint and hoarse. And he said: 
 
 "Stubborn Crocodile ! The son of Rustem am I, and 
 none other, and when one day the news of my death shall 
 reach him, it will pierce him like a stab. And alas, my 
 poor mother! what will be her grief when she shall learn 
 that never again shall Sohrab return unto his native land! 
 For well she knoweth that her son sped not for empty 
 glory forth from far Samengan, but to seek his father, lest 
 he perish with longing after him. And now it is all in 
 vain!" 
 
 Now, though still unbelieving, Rustem could not but 
 be touched by Sohrab' s grief. For, as he gazed at the 
 youthful hero, so full of strength and manly beauty, slain, 
 alas, by his hand in the morning of life, he could not but 
 regret this waste of precious life. So, very gently he spake 
 unto Sohrab. And he said: 
 
 " O Valiant One! Well might Rustem be proud of such 
 a son. Nevertheless, men have told thee false. For well 
 I know that the Great Pehliva never had but one child 
 and that a girl, who dwelleth afar with her mother, and 
 dreameth not of war and its cruelties." 
 
 Alas! the anguish of Sohrab's wound was growing great, 
 so that he longed to pull out the sword and end his pain.
 
 250 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 But Rustem's unbelief angered him, and he resolved first 
 to convince his stubborn foe. So he said wrathfully: 
 
 "Thou Great Persian Ox! Who are thou that thou 
 darest to deny my words? Knowest thou not that truth 
 sitteth upon the lips of dying men ? I tell thee that bound 
 upon this arm I bear the amulet of the house of Zal, which 
 Rustem gave my mother. Men may have told thee false, 
 but surely my mother knoweth whereof she speaketh, and 
 the story had I from her own lips." 
 
 Alas for the Great Rustem! When he heard these 
 words he was shaken with dismay. Nevertheless, he said 
 quietly unto Sohrab: 
 
 "Bare thy arm, Stripling, for if thou canst show this 
 token, that were proof, indeed, that thou art Rustem's 
 son." 
 
 So, with trembling fingers, Sohrab bared his shoulder, 
 and there upon his arm Rustem beheld the amulet which 
 he had given unto Tamineh so long ago. Now as he gazed, 
 lo, there broke from the heart of the Hero a terrible cry of 
 anguish, after which, suddenly, the earth became dark 
 unto his eyes, and he fell in a swoon beside his valiant son. 
 
 And behold! hearing this groan of horrible heart-break, 
 Sohrab knew at last that the unknown warrior was none 
 other than his long-sought father, Rustem the Mighty. 
 So, though fierce was the pain of his wound, Sohrab man- 
 aged finally to reach the place where Rustem lay, pillow- 
 ing his head upon his knee. Yea, and he bathed his face 
 with tears, whispering unto him fond words of endearment, 
 trying thus to coax him back to life. 
 
 But alas! When Rustem opened his eyes once more, it 
 was upon a world of woe and anguish. In his agony of 
 spirit, therefore, he rent his clothes, and tore his hair, and
 
 SOHRAB AGAINST RUSTEM 251 
 
 beat upon his breast, moaning and crying in his terrible 
 sorrow : 
 
 "O my son whom I have slain! My son so young and 
 brave and beautiful! Would that my name had been 
 struck from the lists of men ere I had done this cruel deed. 
 But behold! one grave shall suffice for father and son, for 
 no longer will I cumber the earth." 
 
 Now so speaking, Rustem clutched his sword, and 
 would have slain himself had not Sohrab stayed his hand, 
 saying: 
 
 "Father, forbear! For truly, not thou, but Fate is 
 responsible for this woful happening. Ah, how our hearts 
 cried out one unto the other! and how we should have 
 joyed together! But alas! it hath been decreed other- 
 wise by Him who changeth not. Weep not, therefore, and 
 do thyself no harm, for what is written in the stars, shall 
 it not come to pass? And listen! In spite of all, a great 
 joy hath come unto Sohrab for doth he not behold thy 
 face? O my father, so brave and splendid, how I have 
 longed to see thee! Come, sit beside me on the sand, there- 
 fore, and hold me fast. Yea, take my head between thy 
 hands, and kiss me on the cheek, murmuring, just once, 
 the tender words: 'My son! My valiant son!' Quick! 
 for my life is ebbing fast." 
 
 Then Rustem, weeping, cast his arms about his son, 
 murmuring unto him broken words of praise and anguish. 
 And Sohrab was content, for had he not his heart's desire? 
 So, still he lay, and naught disturbed the oppressive silence 
 save only Rustem's heart-breaking cries of woe. 
 
 But behold! The father's sad lament reached and 
 caused distress unto other ears than those of quiet Soh- 
 rab. For Rakush, hearing his master's plaintive voice,
 
 252 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 whinnied back unto him distressfully, knowing not what 
 to think. Then, as Rustem came not unto him, presently, 
 after many brave tugs, he tore up the rock unto which he 
 was fastened, and hastened, as fast as his burden would 
 allow, unto his master's side. But alas! in his terrible 
 grief, stricken Rustem had only words of chiding for his 
 devoted steed, saying unto him: 
 
 "O Rakush! Rakush! Verily, thy feet should have 
 rotted in thy joints before ever they bare thy master to 
 this field." 
 
 Now at this outburst, Sohrab raised his head, gazing 
 with bright eyes at the great charger, whose joys and sor- 
 rows were so closely bound up with those of his master. 
 And much he wondered to see the big, warm tears roll 
 down from the soft, compassionate eyes of drooping Ra- 
 kush. Smiling gently, therefore, he said unto him: 
 
 "So thou art really Rakush! Ah, how oft have I heard 
 my mother tell of thee, thou faithful, loving steed! And 
 how I envy thee! For thou hast been where I shall never 
 go even unto far-off Seistan, my father's sunny home. 
 There White-haired Zal himself hath stroked thy arching 
 neck, and given thee food, and bidden thee bear thy mas- 
 ter well. But alas! Sohrab will never see his grandsire's 
 charming home, nor hear his voice in greeting." 
 
 Thus spake the dying Sohrab, and Rustem, hearing his 
 sorrowful plaint, brake forth afresh in woe, refusing to be 
 comforted. And he cried: 
 
 " Oh, that I were dead, and the waves of yon dark river 
 rolling peacefully over me! For never shall I know hap- 
 piness more in the world." 
 
 But again Sohrab spake words of comfort unto his 
 father, bidding him live for Iran thus reaping in his old
 
 SOHRAB AGAINST RUSTEM 253 
 
 age a second glory of great deeds. Yea, and he also prayed 
 Rustem to ensure that his followers be allowed to cross 
 the Oxus back in peace, and that brave Hujir be granted 
 his liberty. And he said: 
 
 "As for me, O my father, carry me back with thee unto 
 Seistan, and bury me with the heroes of my house, for I 
 shall sleep more peacefully there." 
 
 So Rustem, stifling his tears, promised that Sohrab's 
 every wish should be fulfilled. And he said: 
 ' "O my glorious son! Never shalt thou be forgotten. 
 For behold! I will build thee a stately tomb, with a tall 
 pillar rising unto the skies. And so imposing shall it be 
 that all men shall see it from afar, and point to it as Valiant 
 Sohrab's tomb. Yea, and all thy brave deeds shall be 
 recorded there, cut so deep in the marble that not even 
 Time shall be able to erase them. So shalt thou live for- 
 ever, thy glory rivalling that of all the heroes of Iran. For, 
 generous hast thou been, as well as mighty and valiant!"* 
 
 Now hearing these wonderful words, Sohrab smiled 
 radiantly upon his father, caressing his mighty hand. 
 Then sinking back into his arms, he murmured : 
 
 " Ah, the world is so beautiful ! So beautiful ! And I am 
 young to die. Nevertheless, I am content. For, O my 
 father! that was a glorious fight. . . . And I am not 
 ashamed. Only, my poor young mother!" 
 
 So, with his mother's name upon his lips, Brave Sohrab 
 sighed gently, his head drooped, and then, white and mo- 
 tionless, the fair young body lay forever quiet in his father's 
 arms. But behold, the smile upon his lips still spake of 
 content, for it said that the beautiful spirit had soared once 
 more unto the sunny Gardens of the Blessed. 
 
 But alas! In departing, Sohrab took all the sunshine of
 
 254 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 the world with him. For now night came down, heavy 
 and dark, upon the plain, and a chill fog rose up from the 
 rushing river. By and by, however, the moon came out, 
 shining solitary through the mist, and its rays fell softly 
 upon Sohrab, lying with radiant, upturned face, so still 
 upon the sand. But alas! The Queen of the Night could 
 not lighten the dark figure that with horseman's cloak 
 drawn low over bowed head sat silent and immovable 
 by the side of the sleeping youth. Nay; not even Rakush 
 could rouse his master now, though he caressed and whin- 
 nied and coaxed for long hours. 
 
 Alas! so it was that the warriors, sent out by the two 
 great chiefs, found the morning's gay champions. But so 
 great was their awe that none dared draw near to question. 
 So, silently they rode back, and gave the news unto their 
 leaders. But not even the Shah dared disturb the Great 
 Pehliva in his grief, when it was learned that Rustem had 
 slain his son. In the morning, however, the gentle hands 
 of many brave warriors lifted the sleeping Sohrab and 
 bare him in a litter, sorrowfully unto the Persian camp, 
 amid such wailing as the earth ne'er heard before. For 
 the mighty hosts of both great armies mourned for the 
 brave young Hero gone. 
 
 Yea, and after this, Rustem, having built a great fire, 
 flung into it his tent of emerald and his trappings of Roum, 
 his saddle and his leopard-skin, his armor well tried in 
 battle, and all the appurtenances of his throne. Now 
 thus was the pride of the mighty warrior laid low. Yea; 
 and without regret saw he his heart's treasures burn, for 
 his soul was sick of war. And he cried: 
 
 "O Sohrab! Sohrab! Not even for thee will I fight 
 more. For what availeth glory unto me now ?"
 
 SOHRAB AGAINST RUSTEM 255 
 
 And having thus sacrificed his pride, behold, Rustem 
 commanded that Sohrab be swathed in rich brocades of 
 gold, worthy his fair young body; and when they had 
 thus enfolded him, he made ready his army to return unto 
 Seistan. But for one night, Brave Sohrab lay in state, 
 watched over by his own gallant chiefs, who had feasted 
 with him so merrily in his tent, and who now, alas, mourned 
 for him with a bitterness that filled the night with woe. 
 
 When morning dawned, however, the sorrowful pro- 
 cession set forth unto Seistan. Now all the nobles of Iran 
 marched before the bier, their heads covered with ashes 
 and their garments rent and tattered. And behold! Rus- 
 tem heaped black earth upon his head, and tore his hair, 
 and wrung his hands; but his cries could not be heard for 
 the mighty wailing of the army. And not only this, but lo! 
 the drums of the war-elephants were also shattered, and 
 the cymbals broken, and the tails of the horses torn to the 
 roots, for thus did the Persians mourn their mighty dead. 
 
 Now when the mournful train drew near unto Seistan, 
 Zal marvelled to see the host returning thus in sorrow. 
 For, as he beheld Rustem at their head, he knew that the 
 wailing was not for him, and he could think of no other 
 worthy such martial honors. When they drew near, how- 
 ever, Rustem led him unto the bier, and showed unto him 
 the youthful Sohrab, so like in feature and might unto 
 Saum, the son of Neriman. Then he told unto him all 
 that had come to pass, and behold ! Zal, too, tore his white 
 hair and wept at this dire misfortune and loss that had 
 come unto his house, and for brave, laughing Sohrab gone. 
 
 And lo! the days of mourning being ended, the Mighty 
 Ones built for the sleeping hero a tomb like unto a horse's 
 hoof; and therein they laid him to rest, in a chamber of
 
 256 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 gold, perfumed with amber. Yea, and they covered him 
 with soft brocades, and placed his arms beside him, so that 
 right royally he took his rest. And when it was done, be- 
 hold, the house of Rustem grew like unto a grave, and its 
 courts were filled with the voice of sorrow. So they 
 mourned for Sohrab in the home of his fathers, and it 
 seemed as if joy could never again take up her abode in 
 the anguish-smitten heart of Rustem. 
 
 But alas! not alone in the home of his fathers was Sohrab 
 mourned. There at least his passing left no gap. But in 
 far Samengan, how different ! For, though so brave about 
 letting her nestling fly forth, well Tamineh knew that until 
 he winged his glad flight back unto the home nest there 
 would be no more sunshine in her life. Now gladly would 
 she have laid herself down and slept, even as the Princess 
 of old, until the glad -day when her brave young Prince 
 should, by his kiss, call her back once more unto the joy of 
 life. But behold! even slumber was denied her. 
 
 So, night after night, too restless and anxious to sleep, 
 Tamineh sat upon her balcony, gazing down the moon- 
 lit road by which one day her brave young warrior 
 must return. For at first she dreamed not of ill. But 
 alas! one night as she gazed with longing that would not 
 be stilled, suddenly she fell to shivering. For behold! no 
 longer did she see the long dusty road, but in its stead 
 there flowed a great silent river, which shone in the moon- 
 light like molten silver. And alas! upon its surface floated 
 Sohrab, a radiant smile upon his lips, and in his hands a 
 bunch of blood-red flowers, which silently he offered her. 
 
 Now Tamineh knew that she had but dreamed, and yet 
 a vague foreboding took possession of her heart, causing 
 her more anxiously still, from this time forth, to watch for
 
 SOHRAB AGAINST RUSTEM 257 
 
 her boy's return. And alas! one night as she sat soothed 
 and entranced by the magic beauty of the moonlit world, 
 suddenly she saw loom up from out the shadows, upon the 
 white gleaming road, a great riderless horse, led by a man 
 upon horseback, whose figure seemed strangely familiar, 
 seeing which, Tamineh thought that again she dreamed. 
 But alas ! this time she dreamed not. For slowly the rider- 
 less horse, with shorn tail and saddle reversed, advanced 
 unto the palace gates, and then there floated up unto 
 the waiting mother a terrible cry, which was taken up 
 and echoed through every corner of the palace, and it 
 ran: 
 
 "Sohrab is dead! Sohrab is dead! The brave young 
 Prince will return no more unto his native land." 
 
 And now, indeed, was there grief and lamentation 
 throughout the Court. For not only did the nobles and 
 warriors wail and throw dust upon their heads, but the 
 women also tore their long white veils, and wrung their 
 hands as they clustered around the bereaved Tamineh, 
 who at the first sight of the face of Piran-Wisa, before ever 
 his sad errand was told, knew what had befallen, and with 
 a terrible cry had swooned at the feet of her maidens. 
 
 And alas! long Tamineh lay as one dead, but, when 
 consciousness finally returned, from the lips of aged Piran 
 she heard the whole sad story of her boy's untimely death. 
 And behold! as the white-haired general recounted how 
 Sohrab had borne himself in that last mighty conflict, the 
 mother's eyes flashed and dilated, while the soul looking 
 out from behind them seemed to cry aloud with pride, 
 and joy, and woe, and despair, in turn. To be slain by 
 Rustem, and slain in equal combat, was a hero's death, 
 truly. But ah, the woe of it!
 
 258 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Yea, the woe of it ! For all Turan mourned for the child 
 of prowess that was fallen in his bloom; but never was there 
 grief like unto that of Sohrab's mother. Night and day she 
 grieved for her son, her only comfort being the horse and 
 cloak which once had been his. Weeping, she would kiss 
 the horse's mane and cling about his neck, while at night 
 she held his cloak in her arms, pressing its empty folds unto 
 her bosom. So she mourned, neither eating nor sleeping 
 till her love for her dead son drew her spirit like a strong 
 cord away from the weary body away from the sunless 
 earth which no longer held her heart's dearest. 
 
 But behold! Tamineh's mourning lasted but the accus- 
 tomed time, for, seven days after Piran-Wisa's return with 
 the riderless horse, she also floated away upon the silent 
 river, and the beautiful smile upon her lips, as she lay, 
 surrounded by her weeping maidens, said plainly that 
 Rustem's Bright Singing-bird had flown also unto the 
 Gardens of Paradise she and her brave nestling happy 
 forever in the smile of Ormuzd the Blessed.
 
 SIAWUSH THE PERSIAN SIR 
 GALAHAD 
 
 BEHOLD! it is recorded that upon a certain day, 
 while the great Shah, Kaikous, was still seated upon 
 the throne of light, Tus, Gew, Gudarz, and other 
 brave Pehliva of Iran departed from the stately court upon 
 a hunting excursion. Now it was in all a goodly com- 
 pany, for the warriors were accompanied by numerous 
 retainers and falconers, and also by leopards such as are 
 trained to hunt the gazelle and the wild ass of the desert. 
 
 So they went forth, and after a merry day's hunting, at 
 evening they came unto a vast wood, reaching many 
 leagues. And behold! as the huntsmen entered its dark 
 recesses, what was their surprise to discover there a maiden 
 of marvellous beauty, her hair and neck spangled with 
 costly jewels. And, strange as it may seem, with the ex- 
 ception of the horse which nibbled the grass near by, this 
 beautiful maiden was entirely alone in the green solitude. 
 
 Now much the huntsman wondered at this most unusual 
 sight, and Tus, who first discovered the maiden, advancing 
 courteously, said: " O Maiden Fair, by the sun, and moon, 
 and all the silvery stars, I swear that 
 
 "Never was seen so sweet a flower, 
 In garden, vale, or fairy bower; 
 The moon is on thy lovely face, 
 Thy cypress-form is full of grace; 
 But why, with charms so soft and meek, 
 Dost thou the lonely forest seek?" 
 259
 
 260 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Then the Princess for she was a princess of the house 
 of Feridoun told unto the Pehliva how that she had fled 
 from her home to escape the wrath of her father who was 
 angry with her because she had refused to wed Poshang, 
 the ugly, bad-tempered old ruler of Turan. And she said : 
 "Alas! my father is quick 
 
 "But when his angry mood is o'er, 
 He'll love his daughter as before; 
 And send his horsemen far and near, 
 To take me to my mother dear. 
 Therefore, I would not further stray, 
 But here, without a murmur, stay." 
 
 Now the maiden was so beautiful that the impressionable 
 hearts of both Tus and Gew warmed toward her, each 
 desiring her for his wife. And alas! so great was their 
 ardor, that almost the two heroes came to blows, in their 
 hot discussion as to the possession of the Princess. How- 
 ever, misfortune was finally averted by wise old Gudarz, 
 who persuaded the rivals to refer the matter unto the King. 
 
 So behold! they led the Peri-faced maiden before Kai- 
 kous who, when he gazed upon her blooming cheeks, her 
 smiling lips, and fascinating mien, smiled, and bit his lip, 
 saying unto Tus and Gew: 
 
 "O my Pehliva, I perceive that ye have brought back 
 from the hunt but a single gazelle one, however, which, 
 unless I mistake me, belongeth unto a King's garden. As 
 Queen of the moon-faced beauties of my palace, therefore, 
 shall she reign, for I perceive she is worthy to recline upon 
 cushions of silver broidered with gold." 
 
 Now, this unlooked-for decision of the King was as the 
 essence of wormwood unto Tus and Gew. However, the 
 Lord of the World sweetened the bitter cup by presenting
 
 At evening they came unto a vast wood, reaching many leagues.
 
 SIAWUSH THE PERSIAN SIR GALAHAD 261 
 
 unto each brave warrior a diadem, and ten superb horses. 
 But upon the Princess he showered rubies and pearls, and 
 in his heart she reigned as Queen of Queens. 
 
 And behold ! in the course of time there came to take up 
 his abode in the King's palace a splendid son, tall and fair 
 and strong of limb. And the name that was given unto 
 him was Siawush. 
 
 Now Kaikous rejoiced greatly in this son of his race, and 
 offered grateful thanks unto Ormuzd the Blessed. But he 
 was grieved, also, because of the message of the stars con- 
 cerning him. For alas! the astrologers foretold for the 
 infant a career of great vicissitude, ending in sorrow. 
 Neither would his virtues avail him aught, for these, above 
 all, would bring destruction upon him. 
 
 But Kaikous, who was of a sanguine disposition, soon 
 allowed hope to delude him into forgetting the inevitable, 
 and so he thought of Siawush only as a child of promise; 
 while unto his beautiful young mother he was the very joy 
 of life. 
 
 Yea, and also unto another brave heart did Siawush 
 cause joy. For behold! when the news that a son had 
 been born unto the Shah spread unto far-away Seistan, 
 Rustem the Mighty, aroused him from his sorrow for Soh- 
 rab, and going up unto the Court, he asked for the babe 
 that he might rear it for the glory of Iran. And Kaikous 
 suffered it, feeling that a great honor had been done unto 
 the child. So joyously Rustem bare Siawush back unto 
 his kingdom. 
 
 And fortunately for Iran, as time passed by, so absorbed 
 became the Great Pehliva in this child of his care, that once 
 more he experienced the joys of living. For, anxious that 
 justice should be done unto the surprising virtues of Sia-
 
 262 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 wush, Rustem himself taught his charge horsemanship and 
 archery; the use of arms, and how to hunt with the falcon 
 and the leopard; how to conduct himself at a banquet, and 
 in fact, all the manners, duties and accomplishments of 
 Kings, and the hardy chivalry of the age. His progress, 
 too, in the attainment of every species of knowledge and 
 science was surprising, for in this his soul delighted. So, 
 as the years passed by, this King's Son grew to be a youth 
 of such noble proportions, possessing a face so radiant with 
 winsomeness and intelligence that verily you would have 
 said that the world held not his like. 
 
 Now when Siawush had become skilled and strong so 
 that he could easily ensnare a lion or a tiger, behold, one 
 day he came unto Rustem bearing high his head. And 
 he said: 
 
 "O Glorious Pehliva! single-handed have I this day 
 ensnared and slain a mighty king of the forest. Is it not 
 time, therefore, that we go up unto the Shah, my father, 
 that he may perceive what manner of man thou hast made 
 of me ? Now truly I love Seistan, and thee, and thy dear 
 father the White-haired Zal. But now I am no longer 
 a child, and it appeareth unto me that out in the world 
 there must be work for me to do." 
 
 Then Rustem smiled, for the lad's words pleased him 
 well. And, as his wishes accorded with his own plans for 
 the Prince, almost at once they marched with a mighty 
 host unto Iran. Now when they were come unto the 
 Court, a royal welcome was accorded them, and so pleased 
 was Kaikous with his son that he rained upon Rustem 
 jewels, and gold, and precious things past the telling, and 
 all the land rejoiced and gloried in Siawush, the noble 
 heir unto the throne. Yea, and to celebrate his return,
 
 SIAWUSH THE PERSIAN SIR GALAHAD 263 
 
 there was given a banquet such as the world hath not seen 
 the like, and behold ! none were toasted save Siawush alone. 
 
 But unto the Prince, his return home brought no joy so 
 great as that of being reunited with the beautiful young 
 mother whom he not only resembled but also adored. But 
 alas! his happiness was of short duration. For, in the 
 midst of the festivities which celebrated his home-coming, 
 the fair young Queen fell suddenly ill and died. 
 
 Alas! no words can describe the sorrow of the noble 
 young Prince for his mother. For, unto the impressionable 
 lad, who had lived his life thus far principally as a warrior 
 among men, the gentle presence of this lovely spirit exer- 
 cised a wonderful charm. So, quickly had mother and son 
 become inseparable, and this congenial companionship 
 did much, though unconsciously, to develop that strength 
 and beauty of character which was the Queen's most 
 precious legacy unto her son, and which causes his name 
 still to be loved and revered by all the Children of Or- 
 muzd. 
 
 But not long was Siawush allowed to indulge his grief, 
 for after the days of mourning were over, for seven years 
 longer was his education continued, under the tutorship of 
 the wisest men in the land. Howbeit, in the eighth year, 
 after that Kaikous had proved his spirit, he gave unto his 
 son a throne and a crown. So all was well, and men forgot 
 the evil message of the stars concerning Siawush. But alas ! 
 the day of ill fortune was now not far distant from the 
 noble son of Kaikous. 
 
 For behold! Sudaveh, the wife of the Shah, having no 
 son of her own, became jealous of Siawush, the noble heir 
 to the throne. And, finding that she could not by wile lure 
 him into the paths of evil and destruction, lo, she hated
 
 264 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 him though she tried to win his liking. But Siawush 
 would not make friends with Sudaveh because he perceived 
 that her thoughts were evil, and because enshrined in his 
 heart was the memory of his own fair mother who had 
 taught him to value honor, and purity, and truth above all 
 things in the world. 
 
 Seeing, therefore, that she could neither win Siawush 
 unto herself, nor yet make him love the wrong, behold, 
 Sudaveh was very wroth, and unscrupulously she plotted 
 his ruin. At first she complained unto the King of 
 Siawush, slandering his fair fame, thus trying to prejudice 
 him against his son. Then she caused the most evil reports 
 to be circulated throughout the land damaging to the 
 honor of the Prince. And finally, when the time was ripe, 
 this wicked woman devised a plot against Siawush so deep 
 and cunning that it was impossible for the King to decide 
 as to the guilt or innocence of his son. In his perplexity, 
 therefore, after consulting his Mubids, Kaikous decided 
 to put Siawush to the ordeal of fire, in order to test his 
 innocence. 
 
 So now it came to pass that the King caused drome- 
 daries to be sent forth, even unto the borders of the land, to 
 bring cords and cords of wood from the forests. And be- 
 hold! when it was brought, there was reared a mighty 
 heap of logs, so that the eye could perceive it at a distance 
 of two farsangs, and it was piled so that a narrow path 
 ran through its midst. And this being accomplished, the 
 Shah next commanded that naphtha be poured upon the 
 wood and that it be lighted. And alas! so great was the 
 pyre in width and height that two hundred men were 
 needed to kindle it, and lo! the flames and smoke over- 
 spread all the heavens, so that men shuddered with fear
 
 SIAWUSH THE PERSIAN SIR GALAHAD 265 
 
 when they beheld the tongues of fire; and so great was the 
 heat thereof that it was felt in the far corners of the land. 
 
 And presently, the preparations being all completed, 
 Kaikous commanded Siawush, his son, that he ride into 
 the midst of the burning pyres. So, attired in his golden 
 helmet and white robe, and mounted upon a coal-black 
 charger, Siawush advanced unto Kaikous, saluting him. 
 Then fearlessly he rode forward, commending his soul 
 unto the Almighty. Now as he entered upon the fiery path, 
 a great cry of sorrow arose from all the people, for they 
 loved their brave young Prince, and they dreamed not that 
 any man could come forth alive from such a fiery furnace. 
 Therefore they murmured against Kaikous, as did all his 
 nobles, for their hearts were filled with wrath against the 
 King for permitting this wicked deed. So, for long min- 
 utes, naught was heard but the angry murmur of the peo- 
 ple and the fierce cackle of the hungry flames. 
 
 But, though all of Iran grieved, one there was of the 
 King's own household who exulted in this terrible scene. 
 For, when the wicked Sudaveh saw from her windows the 
 fierce flames that struggled to mount unto heaven, she 
 came forth upon the roof of her house. And alas! so given 
 over unto evil was she, that when she beheld Siawush leap 
 so bravely into the fiery depths, she danced and clapped 
 her hands, praying unto the Wicked One, and whispering 
 fierce incantations and charms that should cause destruc- 
 tion unto the Hero. 
 
 But behold! with soul uplifted unto Ormuzd, un- 
 daunted, Siawush rode boldly through the fiery flames, 
 his white robes and ebon steed being plainly visible unto 
 all. Yea, fearlessly he rode, hasting not at all, but pressing 
 steadily forward, until he was come unto the end of the
 
 266 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 pathway. And having come forth, lo, there was not singed 
 so much as a hair of his head, neither had the smoke 
 blackened his garments. 
 
 Then, realizing that it had been vouchsafed unto him 
 to come through the test safely, involuntarily Siawush 
 raised his eyes unto the starry sky in thanksgiving unto 
 Ormuzd the Blessed. And lo! floating above the great 
 burning pyres, which were now throwing out a tremend- 
 ous heat, he beheld two white-robed figures. And lo, one 
 was Serosch, the Angel of Pity, and the other his fair young 
 mother. Now beholding this vision, yearningly the young 
 Prince stretched forth his arms, for suddenly the earth 
 had grown hateful unto him. But even as he gazed, the 
 figures vanished, and the world seemed chill and cold in 
 spite of the blazing fire. 
 
 The heart of Siawush was soon warmed, however, for 
 when the people beheld that their noble young Prince was 
 come forth alive, they rent the air with their shouts of joy. 
 And Kaikous, seeing that the fire had not touched his son, 
 knew indeed that Siawush was pure of heart. So he raised 
 him from the ground, placing him beside him upon the 
 throne, and asking forgiveness for his evil doubts. Then 
 in his joy Kaikous feasted Siawush for three days. On 
 the fourth day, however, the King mounted upon the 
 throne of light, commanding that Sudaveh, his much-loved 
 wife, be brought before him. And behold! when she was 
 come into his presence, Kaikous reproached her for her 
 evil deeds, bidding her make ready to depart the world, 
 since death was to be the penalty of her misdeeds. 
 
 But Sudaveh, who knew her power over the King, pleaded 
 eloquently for her life, asserting that Siawush had escaped, 
 not because of his innocence, but by the power of magic.
 
 SIAWUSH THE PERSIAN SIR GALAHAD 267 
 
 Nevertheless, the King, hardening his heart, gave orders 
 that she be led forth unto death; and all the nobles approved 
 the decision, for they knew that the woman was powerful 
 for evil. But now Siawush, being chivalrous and generous 
 of heart, pleaded for Sudaveh's life, for he knew that her 
 death would be a great sorrow unto the King. So, the boon 
 being granted, once more this wicked woman was in a 
 position to work mischief, and this she did right speedily. 
 
 For lo, it is chronicled that about this time Afrasiab again 
 invaded Persia with a mighty host, thinking to gain pos- 
 session of the land. Whereupon, Kaikous, greatly angered 
 because the Tartar had broken his covenant, quickly made 
 ready his army to oppose him. Then Siawush, hearing that 
 the King himself expected to lead forth the men of Iran, 
 having sought audience with his father, asked it as his 
 right that he be permitted to lead forth the host. 
 
 So, permission being granted, Siawush set about pre- 
 paring himself and his men for the coming campaign. 
 But, as he was inexperienced in war, and his foe was wily 
 and powerful, swift messengers were sent unto Rustem, 
 bidding him go forth to battle with his charge, to guard 
 and aid him with his experience. And Rustem, whose heart 
 leaped once more at the thought of battle, answering, said: 
 
 " O King of Kings! Verily thy noble son Siawush is unto 
 me the light of my eyes and the joy of my soul, for it seem- 
 eth unto me that in him Sohrab yet liveth. Therefore will 
 I go forth once more unto battle." 
 
 So the trumpets of war were sounded, and the two 
 Mighty Ones led forth the host to meet the enemy. And 
 behold! when the two armies encountered each other upon 
 the field of battle, Siawush fought so bravely that even 
 Rustem was amazed, for his had seemed to be the gentler
 
 268 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 and nobler virtues. Yea, and inspired by their noble 
 young leader, so valiantly did the men of Iran fight, that 
 after three fiercely-contested battles, the Persians finally 
 succeeded in shutting up the enemy in Balkh, the capital 
 of Afrasiab. 
 
 Now when the news of this calamity was carried unto 
 the King of the Tartars, he was seized with the utmost ter- 
 ror, which was increased by a frightful dream which vis- 
 ited his slumbers. Yea, so terrible was it, that Gersiwaz, 
 the King's brother, found the brave Afrasiab lying upon 
 the floor of his chamber, roaring in agony of spirit, and 
 shouting like a man bereft of reason. And alas! even 
 when he finally recovered his wits, still did he continue to 
 tremble with terror and fright, for he feared that his hour 
 was come. Nor did the Mubids give him comfort, for they 
 revealed unto the King that Siawush would bring destruc- 
 tion upon Turan, hearing which, Afrasiab said unto 
 Gersiwaz: 
 
 "O my brother! Never shall I recover from the horror 
 of my dream. But surely if I cease from warring against 
 Siawush, disaster will be avoided. It behooveth me, there- 
 fore, to send unto this powerful young Prince, silver, and 
 jewels, and rich gifts, that thus we may bind up with gold 
 the eye of war." 
 
 So the King bade his brother take from the royal treas- 
 ury, gold and jewels of price to bear unto the camp of Sia- 
 wush, together with a message, saying: 
 
 "O Prince of a Noble House! Verily, since the days of 
 Selim and Tus, when Irij was slain unjustly, hath the 
 world been disturbed by our wars. Now, once for all, let 
 us forget these things, that peace may reign once more in 
 the world."
 
 SIAWUSH THE PERSIAN SIR GALAHAD 269 
 
 Behold, upon the receipt of this message, a secret council 
 was held as to the answer that should be given, for Rustem 
 trusted not the words of Afrasiab. After long deliberation, 
 therefore, Siawush replied unto the messenger: 
 
 "O Prince of the Land of Turan! Behold, we have 
 pondered thy message well, and have decided to grant unto 
 Afrasiab his desire. Yet, since it behooveth us to know 
 that poison be not hidden under the words of thy brother, 
 we demand: First, one hundred distinguished heroes, 
 allied unto Afrasiab by blood, that we may guard them as a 
 pledge of the royal words; and second, the restoration of all 
 the provinces which the Turanians have taken from Iran." 
 
 Alas! though Afrasiab was loath to send the hostages, 
 yet dared he not refuse, fearing that in that case the 
 evil foretold would surely fall upon him. So choosing out 
 from among the army the required number of his kinsmen, 
 he sent them unto Siawush. And the negotiations being 
 thus concluded, Rustem hastened to bear the tidings unto 
 Kaikous. 
 
 But behold! when the King of Kings learned that a 
 treaty of peace had been concluded, he was angry, for 
 already had rumor informed him of Afrasiab's dream, and 
 of the interpretation put upon it, by the astrologers. In 
 his wrath, therefore, he declared that Siawush had be- 
 haved like an infant, and he also heaped reproaches upon 
 Rustem, whose counsels, he said, were those of an old man 
 who had lost his courage. And finally he commanded 
 Rustem that he return right speedily unto Balkh, bearing 
 unto Siawush the message that he should destroy the host- 
 ages of Turan utterly; that he should again fall upon 
 Afrasiab; nor cease from fighting until he had wiped from 
 the earth both the King and his army.
 
 270 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Now unto these foolish words, Rustem replied: 
 
 " O King of Iran! Beware how thou sowest the seeds of 
 evil, lest they bring forth fruit bitter unto thy taste. For, 
 verily I say unto thee that Siawush will not break his oath 
 unto Afrasiab; neither will he destroy the men of Turan 
 delivered into his hands for so is he not made! Nay, 
 sooner would he die a thousand deaths of torture than so 
 dishonor his manhood." 
 
 But alas! This noble tribute unto his son only fanned 
 the fierce flame of anger that burned in the heart of Kai- 
 kous. So he upbraided Rustem yet more, saying unto him 
 that but for his evil counsel the young Prince would not 
 have swerved from the path of victory. Yea, and he 
 taunted Rustem for his loss of vigor, bidding him go back 
 unto Seistan, that refuge for old men, since Tus the 
 Valiant should go forth as Pehliva in his stead. 
 
 Now at these unjust reproaches, Rustem' s anger burst 
 forth, so that once more he threw into the teeth of the Shah 
 his deeds of folly, telling him not- to send for him when 
 again he put his hand into the lion's mouth. And so say- 
 ing, he turned his back upon the Court, thinking never to 
 visit it again. 
 
 So thus it came to pass that Tus went forth unto the 
 army in place of Rustem, and behold! he carried with 
 him strict orders unto Siawush that the hostages should 
 be bound and sent unto Kaikous for execution. But Sia- 
 wush, being a Prince of the highest purity and honor, could 
 not be a party unto any such disgraceful deed. For he 
 said: 
 
 "How, alas, can I appear before Ormuzd the Blessed if 
 I depart from mine oath ? even if it be at the command of 
 my father who is the Lord of the World."
 
 SIAWUSH THE PERSIAN SIR GALAHAD 271 
 
 Yet well Siawush knew that if he disobeyed the royal 
 mandate of his father it was well-nigh certain that his life 
 would pay the penalty; for he needed not to be told whose 
 tongue it was that had poisoned the King's ear and insti- 
 gated him in his evil course. After much thought, there- 
 fore, the Prince finally decided that he himself would re- 
 turn the hostages safe unto Afrasiab, and then abandon 
 his country and the prospects of a throne, since only thus 
 could he preserve his honor, and prevent his father from 
 becoming a murderer. 
 
 So, having reached this decision, Siawush sent Zengueh 
 unto Afrasiab with the hostages and all the gold and jew- 
 els that had been sent unto him, together with a letter 
 wherein was written how that discord had sprouted out of 
 their peace, and how that he was resolved to remain true 
 unto their treaty, in spite of his father's commands to the 
 contrary. And finally he petitioned that Afrasiab would 
 allow him to pass through his dominions that he might 
 hide himself wheresoever God desired. For he said: 
 
 "Verily, I shall seek out a spot far distant where my 
 name shall be lost unto Kaikous, and where I may not 
 hear of his woful deeds." 
 
 Now when Afraisab received this letter he was amazed, 
 for such nobility of soul was unknown unto the wily Tar- 
 tar. But he was also troubled in his spirit, for he knew 
 not what to do. Therefore, he called unto him his great 
 general, aged Piran-Wisa, taking counsel how he should 
 act. And Piran said: 
 
 "O Mighty King! Truly there is but one course open 
 unto thee. Now, I am an old man, and have drunk deep 
 at the fountain of life, but I say unto thee that never yet 
 have I witnessed such honor and nobility in a Prince,
 
 272 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Wherefore, I counsel thee, receive him within thy courts, 
 and give unto him thy daughter in marriage, and let him 
 be unto thee as a son. For, verily when Kaikous is gathered 
 unto his fathers, then will Siawush mount unto the throne 
 of Iran, and thus may the old hate be quenched in love." 
 
 So spake good, old Piran, and Afrasiab, knowing that 
 wisdom lurked in his words, at once sent unto Siawush, 
 offering him a home in his land. And he said: 
 
 "O noble Prince! Since I perceive that the windows of 
 thy soul are ever open unto the sun, if thou comest to dwell 
 among us never will I demand of thee aught that is evil; 
 neither shall suspicion against thee ever enter my breast. 
 Come, then, and if thy choice be retirement and tran- 
 quillity, thou shalt have allotted unto thee a peaceful and 
 independent province." 
 
 Now Siawush, when he read Afrasiab's letter, was re- 
 lieved, and yet was he also troubled. For his heart was 
 sore because that he was forced to make a friend of the 
 foe of his country. But alas! he saw no way by which it 
 could be altered. 
 
 So, after despatching a touching letter unto his father, 
 Siawush set out with his cortege, and rode until he reached 
 the frontier. Now there he found chieftains and warriors 
 and servants ready to escort him; and when he was well 
 over the boundary, the great Piran-Wisa himself came 
 forth to greet him. And lo! there followed after him a 
 train of white elephants, richly caparisoned, and laden with 
 gifts, which the great general poured before Siawush to 
 give him welcome. Yea; and every town upon the road 
 to the capital was decorated, and the people hailed Sia- 
 wush as if he were their own Prince returned unto them 
 victorious.
 
 SIAWUSH THE PERSIAN SIR GALAHAD 273 
 
 And behold! when they were finally come unto the capi- 
 tal, Afrasiab himself stepped down from off his throne to 
 give welcome unto Siawush, and much he marvelled at the 
 beauty and strength of the Prince, his heart going out unto 
 him in real admiration and love. So, embracing him, and 
 calling down blessings upon his head, Afrasiab seated him 
 at his side upon the throne. Then, turning unto Piran- 
 Wisa, he said: 
 
 "Truly Kaikous is a man devoid of sense, else never 
 would he suffer a son like unto this to depart from out his 
 sight." 
 
 Now Afrasiab could not cease from gazing upon Sia- 
 wush, so truly noble and winning was he, and in his de- 
 light he showered upon him gold and jewels and precious 
 treasure past the counting. And he gave unto him, too, 
 a beautiful palace, and horses and servants such as only 
 a Prince could have. And not only this, but he also pre- 
 pared for his guest a royal feast which lasted many days. 
 And lo! Siawush was exalted above even the nobles of the 
 land. And in the great tournament which ended the wel- 
 coming festivities, in all the games of skill Siawush showed 
 a prowess that was great beyond all the warriors of Turan. 
 Yet were they not jealous, but only admiring. 
 
 But though Siawush won admiration and love from all 
 sources, unto Afrasiab, even in this short time, he had be- 
 come the light of his eyes and the joy of his soul. So the 
 Prince abode in the court of the King many days, for in 
 gladness or sorrow, in gayety or sadness, the infatuated 
 monarch would have none other about him. And in this 
 wise there rolled twelve moons over their heads. Then 
 Piran-Wisa said unto Siawush: 
 
 "O noble Prince! Behold, thy home is now in Turan,
 
 274 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 and if Afrasiab be made now thy father in truth as he is 
 really in affection, then can no hurt come unto thee. Ask 
 of him, therefore, the hand of his daughter in marriage, for 
 thus canst thou secure thyself, and if peradventure, a son 
 be born unto thee, then will he bind up forever the enmity 
 between the two lands." 
 
 So Siawush asked the hand of Ferangis of her father, 
 and Afrasiab gave it unto him with great joy. Now he 
 also prepared a mighty feast for the bridal, pouring upon 
 his new son gifts past the telling. Yea, and he also be- 
 stowed upon him a kingdom and a throne. And alas! when 
 at last the King suffered his favorite to go forth unto his 
 realm, the sunshine of the Court seemed to go with him, so 
 gray were the days unto Afrasiab. 
 
 But Siawush was happy in his new life, for though so 
 gallant and brave when occasion demanded, yet at heart 
 was he not really a warrior, but one of the heroes of prog- 
 ress, as he now proceeded to show. For behold! in the 
 midst of his province he builded himself a city, making of 
 it a place of beauty such as the world hath not seen. 
 
 Now it was builded upon a mountain, and was sur- 
 rounded by scenery of exquisite richness and variety. The 
 trees were thick, and ever fresh and green; birds warbled 
 upon every spray; and transparent rivulets murmured 
 through the meadows; while the air was neither oppres- 
 sively hot in summer nor cold in winter, for every breeze 
 was laden with invigorating freshness and with perfume 
 such as could only have been wafted from the fair Gar- 
 dens of Paradise. Now it was in the midst of all this nat- 
 ural beauty that the followers of Siawush builded them 
 homes, while he erected for himself a glorious palace, and 
 garden temples, in which he had painted portraits of all the
 
 SIAWUSH THE PERSIAN SIR GALAHAD 275 
 
 heroes and kings of his age. Yea, and he caused to be 
 constructed a great open space wherein men might rejoice 
 in the game of ball. 
 
 And Siawush was glad in his city, as were all those 
 around him, and the earth was happier for his presence. 
 Yea, and not a cloud was there in the heaven of his life. 
 But when the gallant young Prince, happy in his lovely 
 young wife and his beautiful home, inquired of the astrolo- 
 gers whether this city was destined to add to his happiness, 
 they replied that it would bring unto him ill fortune and 
 sorrow. Now Siawush was saddened by this reply, but 
 as time passed by and no evil befell, like a wise man 
 he put away the thought and rejoiced in the time that 
 was. 
 
 But alas! Not long was Siawush to rejoice in a happy 
 present; and behold! his evil nemesis was Gersiwaz, the 
 King's brother, who was jealous of the love which Afra- 
 siab bare unto the Prince, and of the power and glory that 
 were his. So pondering in his heart how he might destroy 
 this mote in his sunshine, one day Gersiwaz presented him- 
 self before Afrasiab, praying the King that he would suffer 
 him to go forth and visit the city that Siawush had builded, 
 whereof the mouths of men ran over in praises. And 
 Afrasiab granted his request, bidding him bear gifts and 
 words of love unto Siawush his son. 
 
 So Gersiwaz sped him forth, and Siawush, who sus- 
 pected no evil, .received him graciously, feasting him many 
 days in his palace. ' And in order that due honor should 
 be paid unto the brother of the King, a series of athletic 
 games were arranged for. But alas! the amazing strength 
 and skill displayed by Siawush on these occasions, together 
 with the splendor by which he was surrounded, fanned
 
 276 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 into a devouring flame the smouldering envy and hate of 
 the King's brother. 
 
 Upon his return to the Court, therefore, Gersiwaz insidi- 
 ously poisoned the mind of Afrasiab by false tales, in which 
 he actually accused Siawush of plotting to bring a Persian 
 army into Turan. Yea, and he reminded the King of his 
 dream, thus working upon his fear. And alas! though at 
 first receiving these stories with hesitation, Afrasiab finally 
 became furious against his gentle guest, proceeding against 
 him with an army. 
 
 Now a terrible dream had forewarned Siawush that his 
 doom was at hand. Nevertheless, he entertained not the 
 slightest thought of trying to resist the King. When in- 
 formed of his approach, therefore, after bidding a touch- 
 ing farewell unto his lovely young wife Ferangis, Siawush 
 went forth to welcome Afrasiab unto the cool bowers of 
 his charming city. 
 
 But alas! So infuriated had Afrasiab become by the in- 
 sinuations of his brother, that without waiting to confer 
 and learn the truth, also without warning, he hurled his 
 army upon the escort of Siawush, and all were cut to 
 pieces. But not even then did Siawush deign to defend 
 himself. For had he not taken oath never to raise his 
 sword against Afrasiab or Turan ? Conscious of his inno- 
 cence, therefore, he preferred to die rather than give color 
 unto the slander of his enemies by raising his hand against 
 his royal host and the father of his bride. 
 
 Seized by a thousand cruel hands, therefore, the noble 
 Prince was bound and thrown into a dungeon of his own 
 palace. Then, by Afrasiab's orders, he was dragged from 
 thence by the hair of his head unto a desert place, where 
 the sword of Gersiwaz was planted in his breast. And
 
 SIAWUSH THE PERSIAN SIR GALAHAD 277 
 
 alas! quickly then the executioner severed the royal head, 
 taking care that the blood stain not the earth, lest it cry 
 aloud for vengeance, for so had commanded fear-stricken 
 Afrasiab. 
 
 But alas! in spite of the care taken, a drop of blood es- 
 caped the golden bowl and was spilt upon the ground. 
 And lo! from the spot, as though by magic, there sprouted 
 and sprang up a wondrous tree, whose bright red berries 
 each appeared like unto a miniature sword. Now all were 
 amazed and affrighted when they beheld this wonder, 
 and quickly they hastened from the spot. For they 
 feared the vengeance of Heaven, knowing their deed to be 
 evil. 
 
 Now when the news of this atrocious deed was spread 
 abroad, behold, a mighty clamor arose in the house of Sia- 
 wush, the cries of Ferangis piercing even unto the ears of 
 Afrasiab in his far-away pavilion. Then the King, angry 
 that his child should sorrow thus for her lord, commanded 
 that she, too, be slain. 
 
 And alas! this certainly would have happened but for 
 the timely intervention of good old Piran-Wisa, who, hear- 
 ing of the tragic end of Siawush, and of the fate that 
 awaited Ferangis, quickly saddled his swiftest steed with 
 his own hands, and dashed madly over hill and valley, 
 pausing neither to eat nor sleep until he drew rein before 
 the pavilion of King Afrasiab. 
 
 Then with noble courage the old man strode into the 
 presence of the cruel King, and, upbraiding him for his per- 
 fidy, foretold a certain retribution when Kaikous and Rus- 
 tem should learn of the treatment awarded unto the pure 
 and high-minded Siawush. Yea, and he pleaded in lofty 
 terms also for the life of Ferangis, saying:
 
 278 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 "O thou who art more heartless than the fierce beasts 
 of prey, wouldst thou really lift up thine hand against 
 thine own offspring? Hast thou not done enough that is 
 evil ? Shed not, therefore, the blood of yet another inno- 
 cent, for truly the day will come when thou shalt pay with 
 thine own heart's blood. Now, if Ferangis be hateful unto 
 thee because of Siawush, I pray thee confide her unto me, 
 that she may be unto me a daughter in my house, and I 
 will guard her well from sorrow." 
 
 Now hearing these words of warning, Afrasiab was filled 
 with remorse for his evil deed. So, releasing his daughter 
 from her chains, he gave her into the care of Piran, who 
 bore her unto his home beyond the mountains. 
 
 Then Afrasiab returned speedily unto the Court, for the 
 city of Siawush, in spite of its entrancing beauty, had be- 
 come hateful unto him. And behold! from this time forth, 
 a great fear gnawed persistently at his vitals, allowing him 
 neither rest nor sleep, and ever before him he saw the pure 
 face of the cruelly murdered Siawush. 
 
 So lived and died this noble Prince of the land of Iran 
 whose tragic fate yet moveth the Children of Ormuzd 
 to tears, even unto this day. But of the vengeance that 
 was accorded him you must hear in another story.
 
 RUSTEM THE AVENGER 
 
 LO, in the Book of the Shahs it is written, that when 
 the tidings of the cruel death of Siawush pierced 
 unto the land of Iran, behold, throughout the 
 length and breadth of the King's dominions there was 
 raised unto heaven such a mighty wailing that even the 
 nightingale in the cypress was silent of her song, and the 
 leaves of the pomegranate-trees in the forest were withered 
 for sorrow. 
 
 As for the mighty Rustem, when he learned of the 
 tragic fate of the Prince so dear unto him, he was bowed 
 to the earth with agony, so that for seven days he stirred 
 not from the ground, neither would have aught of food or 
 comfort. But on the eighth day he roused himself from 
 the earth, causing the trumpets of brass to be sounded in 
 the air. And behold! when he had assembled all his 
 brave warriors, he marched with them unto Iran, where, 
 appearing before the Shah, he demanded audience. 
 
 Now when Rustem was come into the presence-cham- 
 ber, he beheld the King of Kings seated upon his throne, 
 and lo ! he was clothed in dust from his head unto his feet, 
 because of his grief. Yea; and all the heroes that stood 
 about the throne were clad in garbs of woe, bearing dust 
 upon their heads instead of helmets. But Rustem was not 
 moved by the grief of the Shah, for he remembered but too 
 well who had driven Siawush forth unto his doom. So 
 pitilessly he said unto Kaikous: 
 279
 
 280 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 "O King of Evil Nature! Verily it must be bitter unto 
 thee to know that with thine own hand thou hast felled the 
 noble young cypress of thy house, which might have grown 
 and cast a glorious shadow over Iran. Alas for Siawush, 
 so noble and yet so treacherously slain! But dearly shall 
 his murderers pay; and lo! vengeance beginneth at the 
 King's palace. Nay, tremble not, for, being the King, 
 thou art safe from my sword. But as for that wicked sor- 
 ceress who poisoned thy mind with her charms, now she 
 must die; and verily all Iran will glory in her death. 
 And now hear me, O King, and ye heroes of Iran, for I 
 swear unto thee that henceforth I will know neither rest 
 nor joy until the atrocious death of Siawush be fully 
 avenged. Let his murderers beware, therefore, for be- 
 hold! Rustem is upon their track." 
 
 Now having thus unveiled his heart, Rustem strode dis- 
 dainfully from out the presence of the King, hastening at 
 once unto the palace of Sudaveh, who had given over Sia- 
 wush unto death. And behold! the Hero found this 
 charming sorceress sitting upon a golden throne, in a 
 bower that rivalled paradise in beauty, with a coronet 
 upon her head and her hair floating around her in long 
 musky ringlets. 
 
 But as Rustem beheld all this luxury and splendor, and 
 thought of Siawush abandoned unto the foes of his land, 
 because of this wicked woman, all compunction left him. 
 Tearing her from her gorgeous throne, therefore, quickly 
 did he rid the world of this source of evil; nor did he feel 
 pity or regret when he saw her dead at his feet. For he 
 remembered how Siawush had pleaded for her life and 
 how his generosity and nobility had been rewarded. 
 
 And behold! having thus purged the earth of a part of
 
 RUSTEM THE AVENGER 281 
 
 its wickedness, Rustem strode forth into the pure air of 
 heaven, fearing naught. For though well he knew that the 
 heart of Kaikous would be torn with anguish when he 
 learned of the death of Sudaveh, yet would he not dare to 
 oppose himself unto his great Pehliva in his wrath. 
 
 So, the hand of vengeance being stretched forth, Rustem 
 now directed his course toward Turan, saying unto his 
 heroes: 
 
 "Verily, this accursed land shall tremble before my mace 
 as the earth upon the day of judgment, and Afrasiab, the 
 black-hearted, shall cry for the rocks to hide him from my 
 anger, which burneth ever fiercer." 
 
 Thus spake Rustem, and paused not in his forced march 
 until he was come face to face with the forces of Afrasiab. 
 Now the King having learned that a great army was com- 
 ing out of Iran to avenge the death of Siawush, had sent 
 forth Sarkha, the best-beloved, and the bravest of his sons, 
 to oppose the invaders, begging him, however, to have a 
 care that Rustem, the son of Zal, put not his life in danger. 
 
 Now when the two armies beheld one another, lo, their 
 hate burst forth, and the battle raged sore. And alas for 
 Afrasiab! for in the midst of the conflict Sarkha fell into 
 the hands of Rustem, who spared him not, but delivered 
 him over unto the same death as that of Siawush, knowing 
 that thus would the heart of Afrasiab be torn with anguish. 
 
 And now the frenzied King of Turan, having received 
 the golden dish containing the blood of his son, and beheld 
 his severed head suspended from the gates of his palace, 
 hastened himself to resist the conquering career of the 
 enemy. And behold! this new force having come nigh 
 unto Rustem, it came to pass that Pilsam, that was brother 
 unto Piran-Wisa, a warrior valiant and true, begged per-
 
 282 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 mission to oppose his single arm against the Mighty Rus- 
 tem. To which Afrasiab said: 
 
 " O Valiant One, subdue Rustem, and thy reward shall 
 be my daughter and half my kingdom." 
 
 So, though Piran tried to dissuade Pilsam from the un- 
 equal contest, yet went he forth and summoned Rustem to 
 fight. But behold! hearing the call, Gew accepted the 
 challenge himself, Rustem being at a distance. Then long 
 they fought, but so superior was the activity and skill of 
 the Tartar that almost Gew was thrown from his horse. 
 Luckily, however, Feramurz saw him at the perilous mo- 
 ment, and darting forward, with one stroke of his sword 
 he shattered Pilsam's javelin to pieces. So now Pilsam 
 and Feramurz fought together with such desperation that 
 presently both Heroes were exhausted. But at this mo- 
 ment Rustem, perceiving the combat, pushed Rakush 
 forward, calling aloud unto Pilsam: 
 
 "Ho, Puny Tartar! I am told that thou desirest to try 
 thy strength with Rustem. Behold! he hath come in 
 answer to thy call." 
 
 Now when Pilsam gazed upon the mighty warrior, 
 wrapped about with anger, he was afraid. Nevertheless, 
 he proceeded to encounter him, striking with all his might 
 at the head of the champion. But though the sword of the 
 Hero was broken by the blow, not a hair of Rustem's head 
 was disordered. Waiting not for a renewal of the attack, 
 however, Rustem now fell upon the Tartar with fury, 
 lifting him lightly and easily from the saddle. Then tak- 
 ing him by the girdle, he flung him, as a thing contempti- 
 ble, into the Tartar camp, shouting in a voice of thunder: 
 
 "Ho, black-hearted King! Here cometh thy glorious 
 conqueror. Pray, wrap him in robes of gold, for I fear
 
 RUSTEM THE AVENGER 283 
 
 that my mace hath made him blue. And give unto him 
 now thy daughter and thy treasure, thy kingdom and 
 thy soldiers, for is he not, indeed, a bright jewel in thy 
 crown of sovereignty ? And hath he not added lustre unto 
 Turan, the land of mighty heroes ? 
 
 So spake Rustem in his anger, and so terrible was he 
 that suddenly the courage of the Tartars all departed from 
 out them. Neither could Afrasiab incite them to fresh 
 endeavor, though he strove mightily; for lo! the fear of 
 Rustem the Avenger had taken full possession of their 
 hearts. 
 
 Then Afrasiab, shamed by Rustem's taunts, himself 
 appeared in arms against the champion, and fiercely they 
 fought for hours. Finally, however, Rustem struck the 
 head of Afrasiab's horse which, floundering, fell, over- 
 turning his rider. Then, quick as a flash, the great Per- 
 sian sprang to seize his royal prize and wreak a perfect 
 vengeance. But alas! the Tartar, Human, rushed be- 
 tween and saved his master, who, vaulting upon another 
 horse, fled, murmuring unto himself: 
 
 "Alas! alas! The good fortune which hitherto hath 
 watched over me is asleep." 
 
 Now thus it was that Afrasiab' became a wrteched wan- 
 derer upon the face of the earth. For behold! not only 
 did Rustem utterly demolish his capital, but he paused not 
 in his work of destruction until the whole land was laid 
 waste. And yet was the vengeance of Siawush not com- 
 plete.
 
 HOW GEW HELPED A HERO-PRINCE 
 UNTO A THRONE 
 
 BEHOLD! it is chronicled that after the death of 
 Siawush there was born unto Ferangis, in the 
 house of Piran-Wisa, a son so attractive of mien 
 that already in his cradle he was like unto a King. 
 
 Now evil counsellors bade Afrasiab destroy this Prince, 
 who, according to the astrologers, was destined to bring 
 destruction upon Turan. But the King, whose heart had 
 been softened by his sorrow for Siawush and by the elo- 
 quent pleading of Piran-Wisa for the life of the child, shut 
 his ears unto them, saying: 
 
 "Verily, I repent me of my evil deed unto Siawush, and 
 though it be written that much evil shall come unto me 
 from this offspring of his race, yet will I not again stain 
 my hands with the blood of any of his house. Let the 
 babe live, therefore, but let him be brought up among 
 shepherds in the mountains, far from the haunts of men, 
 and let his birth be hidden from him, that he may never 
 seek to avenge the cruel death of his sire. So may all yet 
 be well." 
 
 So, rejoicing that the Prince was to be spared, quickly 
 Piran hastened to hide him in the mountains, before Afra- 
 siab should repent him of his clemency, for well he knew 
 the King's fickleness of humor. Now the old man gave the 
 little Prince unto shepherds of the flock, bound unto him 
 by ties of gratitude, saying: 
 
 284
 
 HOW GEW HELPED A HERO-PRINCE 285 
 
 "O Men of Peace! Behold, I give unto you a glorious 
 charge, and I say unto you, guard this child even as your 
 own souls, letting neither rain nor dust come nigh unto 
 him, for verily he is precious in the sight of Ormuzd the 
 Blessed." 
 
 Thus it came to pass that no man knew of the where- 
 abouts of the young Prince nay, not even Ferangis, his 
 mother, for thus only could he be safe from Afrasiab. 
 But alas ! the thought of his charge caused Piran many an 
 anxious hour, for greatly he feared that strife and disaster 
 would come unto Turan through him, yet on account of 
 the promise of protection given unto Siawush, his friend, 
 whom he had led to put his trust in Afrasiab, he felt 
 bound in honor to preserve the child at any cost. 
 
 Now when some time had passed, the shepherds came 
 unto their patron, the great Piran- Wisa, saying: 
 
 "Verily, Sire, no longer can we restrain the bold young 
 eagle that thou hast placed in our mountain eyrie, for be- 
 hold! he ever seeketh to fly unto the sun." 
 
 So, hearing this report, Piran returned with the shep- 
 herds to visit KaiKhosrau, for so was the young Prince 
 named. And lo ! when he looked upon him, beholding his 
 beauty, and strength, and winsomeness, his heart went 
 out to him as unto a son, and he pressed him unto his 
 bosom with tenderness. Then was KaiKhosrau sur- 
 prised, and he said unto the white-haired, stately old 
 warrior: 
 
 "O Stately Poplar, that bearest high thy head! Art thou 
 not ashamed to press unto thee the son of a shepherd?" 
 
 Then Piran, who was carried out of himself by the 
 wondrous promise of the boy, stopping not to ponder his 
 words, cried out in admiration:
 
 286 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 " O Heir of Kings! Would that thy father could see thee 
 now! How his heart would rejoice in a son so truly royal!" 
 
 Thus spake Piran in his admiration, and having be- 
 trayed in part the secret, he now related unto KaiKhosrau 
 the story of Siawush his sire, and, having done so, he bare 
 him back with him unto his mother. Then was the Prince 
 clad in robes befitting his station, and from this time forth 
 he was reared in the bosom of Piran, and of Ferangis, his 
 mother, the days rolling above their heads in happiness 
 and peace. 
 
 But alas! so could it not ever be, for again was Afrasiab 
 having bad dreams. So shortly it came to pass that a mes- 
 senger was sent in great haste to summon Piran-Wisa unto 
 the Court. Then Afrasiab said: 
 
 " O venerable Chieftain, I have called thee into my 
 presence because of the disquiet of my heart on account of 
 KaiKhosrau, the child of Siawush. For lo! in my dreams 
 I have beheld that he will do much evil unto Turan, on 
 account of which, I repent me of my weakness which kept 
 him alive. Bring him before me, therefore, that I may 
 avert by his death the avalanche of calamity which threat- 
 eneth." 
 
 Now when Piran heard these words he was filled with 
 dismay. But, smiling, he said unto Afrasiab: 
 
 "O Mighty King! Verily it grieveth me that thou 
 shouldst have been caused one minute's pain on account 
 of this Prince, who, though blessed with a face like unto 
 that of a Peri, yet carrieth upon his shoulders a head ill- 
 fitted to bear a crown, since it is empty of reason. Commit, 
 therefore, no violence, but suffer that this innocent one, 
 devoid of wit, continue to dwell harmlessly among the 
 flocks."
 
 HOW GEW HELPED A HERO-PRINCE 287 
 
 So spake the great Piran, and Afrasiab felt the burden 
 of his heart lighten as he listened unto these reassuring 
 words. Yet he said : 
 
 "O Venerable One! Truly thy words are as a comfort- 
 ing shadow in the burning desert. Nevertheless, I say 
 unto thee, bring this KaiKhosrau before me that I may 
 behold with my own eyes his simplicity." 
 
 And behold! Piran assented unto the King's request, 
 for he dared not do otherwise. So, returning unto his 
 house, he sought out the young Prince, instructing him 
 how he should act. Then, arrayed in princely garb, Kai- 
 Khosrau was conducted unto the Court, mounted upon 
 a goodly charger, and surrounded by his retinue. 
 
 Now all the people shouted with delight when they be- 
 held the beauty and kingly mien of the young Prince, even 
 Afrasiab being struck with wonder, as he gazed at his 
 limbs of power. Yea, so fearful was he that he found it 
 hard, indeed, to remember the promise he had given unto 
 Piran that no hair of the boy's head should be harmed. 
 But relief was at hand. For when the King began to ques- 
 tion, so well did KaiKhosrau act his part, that once again 
 was he reassured. Now Afrasiab said: 
 
 "Young Shepherd! How knowest thou the day from 
 the night? What doest thou with thy flocks? And how 
 countest thou thy sheep and thy goats?" 
 
 Then KaiKhosrau, smiling simply into the face of the 
 King, replied: 
 
 "The forests are void of game, and I have neither bow 
 nor arrows. But behold my sunny crown and my golden 
 girdle! only, they are not for thee!" 
 
 Now the King smiled at this reply, and once more he 
 questioned, this time as to the milk given by the flocks.
 
 288 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 But KaiKhosrau, shaking his head sadly, replied: 
 
 "The tiger-cats are black black as thy beard! and 
 verily they are not good for playmates, for they have 
 prickly paws." 
 
 Then Afrasiab put yet a third question, saying: 
 
 "O noble youth! What is the name of thy father?" 
 
 But KaiKhosrau, frowning, said: 
 
 "The dog ventureth not to bark when a lion threateneth. 
 But alas! there are no lions now." 
 
 Then Afrasiab, questioning yet again, said: 
 
 "O Valorous Youth, desirest thou not to go forth unto 
 the land of Iran that thou mayest be avenged of thy 
 foes?" 
 
 But KaiKhosrau, winking drolly at the King, replied: 
 
 "When the leopard danceth, then a strange piper play- 
 eth the tune: 'Ha! Ha! Ho! Ho! Prince KaiKhosrau 
 hath no foe.'" 
 
 Thus spake the cunning Prince, and Afrasiab, satisfied 
 with his answers, questioned him no more, but said unto 
 Piran-Wisa: 
 
 "O Mighty One! Restore this boy unto his mother, 
 and let him be reared with kindness in the city that Sia- 
 wush hath builded, for I perceive that from him can no 
 harm alight upon Turan." 
 
 So, permission being given, quickly Piran hastened to 
 remove KaiKhosrau from the Court, thanking God for the 
 danger safely passed through. And behold! in the city of 
 Siawush, Ferangis spake often unto her son of his noble 
 sire, and of the heroes of Iran, his father's land; so that 
 finally his heart burned, not only with the desire for the 
 vengeance due unto Siawush from his son, but also that he 
 might perform deeds worthy his glorious ancestry.
 
 HOW GEW HELPED A HERO-PRINCE 289 
 
 So the days and the moons rolled by until the army of 
 Rustem invaded Turan. Then, by the advice of Piran- 
 Wisa, the young Prince and his mother were led forth and 
 securely hidden in the land of far Cathay, where they 
 remained for seven long years, while Turan was given over 
 unto the ravages of its foes. But behold! in the eighth 
 year Rustem and his heroes were summoned by the Shah 
 to return unto Iran, thus giving unto that cunning fox, 
 Afrasiab, a chance to creep forth from his hiding-place. 
 
 Now the King wept sore when he beheld the havoc 
 wrought upon Turan by Rustem and his heroes, and, 
 gathering together a mighty army, he fell upon Iran with 
 such fury that none could stand before him. Yea, so 
 bitter was his hate that he suffered not repose to seal his 
 eyelids until he had shattered the Persian host and scathed 
 the land with fire and sword. For alas! good fortune now 
 turned her face away from Iran; neither would Rustem 
 come forth unto her aid, since Kaikous the foolish had 
 again aroused his anger. 
 
 But behold! at this crisis, it came to pass that Gudarz, 
 who was descended from Kavah the smith, dreamed a 
 dream. Now in this vision he beheld a cloud of rainbow 
 hues, and seated upon it was Serosch the Blessed. And 
 lo! the Angel of Pity said unto Gudarz: 
 
 " O Hero of Iran, unto thy house is it granted, even as 
 unto Kavah of old, to deliver thy land from anguish and 
 from the tyranny of Afrasiab the Turk, wherefore, open 
 thine ears unto my words. For lo! it hath been made 
 known unto me by Ormuzd the Omnipotent that there 
 abideth in Turan a son sprung from the loins of Siawush, 
 who is brave and worthy the throne of light, and from 
 whom alone can come deliverance unto Iran. Suffer,
 
 290 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 therefore, that Gew, thy brave son, go forth to search for 
 KaiKhosrau, bidding that he remain glued unto his sad- 
 dle until he shall have found this youth. For such is the 
 will of Him who changeth not, even Ormuzd the God of 
 the Persians." 
 
 Now when Gudarz awoke he thanked God for his 
 dream, touching the ground with his beard. Then, 
 quickly calling unto him his valiant son, he related unto 
 him his dream, bidding him go forth even as commanded 
 by the guardian of the children of Ormuzd: 
 
 Then Gew, when he heard the words of his father, re- 
 plied unto him: 
 
 "O Glorious Sire! Verily my heart leapeth forth unto 
 this adventure, even as a flame darteth hungrily unto the 
 sun. Give me, therefore, thy blessing, and lo! I will de- 
 part this very hour." 
 
 But Gudarz, smiling at the ardor of his son, said: 
 
 "What about thy companions, O Impetuous One?" 
 
 To which Gew replied: 
 
 "My horse and my cord, O my father, will suffice unto 
 me for company. For behold! if I lead out a host unto 
 Turan, men will ask who I am, and why I have come 
 forth, while if I go alone, these doubts will surely slumber." 
 
 Then Gudarz, well pleased at the discretion of valiant 
 Gew, said: 
 
 "Go, my son, and may all the hosts of Heaven accom- 
 pany thee, strengthening thine arm and directing thy 
 way." 
 
 So Gew set forth, but no easy task was his, as he soon 
 found. For, though he wandered through the length and 
 breadth of Turan, he could learn naught of KaiKhosrau. 
 Now seven years rolled thus above the head of Gew, until
 
 HOW GEW HELPED A HERO-PRINCE 291 
 
 he grew lean and sorrowful; yea, even like unto a man 
 distraught. For lo, in all this time, naught had he for a 
 house save only his saddle; for food and clothing but the 
 flesh and skin of the wild ass; and in place of wine, naught 
 but bad water had he to drink. So finally the Hero began 
 to lose heart, fearing that his father's dream had been sent 
 unto him by a wicked Deev. 
 
 But arriving one day in a desert, the Valiant One hap- 
 pened to fall in with several persons who, upon being 
 questioned, said that they had been sent by Piran-Wisa in 
 search of the great Shah Kaikous. Now Gew doubted 
 their story, and so took care to ascertain from them the 
 direction in which they were travelling, passing himself 
 off unto them as a huntsman, interested only in the amuse- 
 ment of snaring the wild ass. 
 
 Now during the night the parties separated, Gew pro- 
 ceeding like lightning upon the route described by the 
 strangers. And behold! as morning dawned, he entered a 
 forest, in the midst of which he suddenly beheld a foun- 
 tain, and seated beside it a youth like unto a royal cy- 
 press. Now the Glorious One held in his hand a cup, and 
 upon his head was a golden crown; noting which, Gew 
 said unto himself: 
 
 "Verily my search is ended, for in this youth surely I 
 behold the face of noble Siawush." 
 
 Great was his surprise, however, when, as he advanced, 
 the stripling, greeting him, said: 
 
 "Ho, Valiant Gew! Truly thou art a joy unto my eyes, 
 since thou art come hither at the behest of God." 
 
 Then Gew, falling at the feet of KaiKhosrau, said: 
 
 "O Hope of Iran! at last, after seven long years of 
 search, do I find thee. But pray, reveal unto me how thou
 
 292 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 knewest my face and mission, for behold! I am lost in 
 amazement." 
 
 Then, smiling, KaiKhosrau replied unto Gew: 
 
 "O Son of Gudarz! Verily all the great warriors and 
 heroes of Iran are well known unto me, for oft have I gazed 
 upon the portraits of Rustem and Tus and Gudarz yea, 
 and of Valiant Gew, in my father's gallery, while from 
 my mother's lips have I heard again and again of all the 
 glorious deeds wrought by the Pehliva of the Shahs. And 
 alas! before he entered upon death his cruel death! my 
 father foretold unto Ferangis, my mother, how that in due 
 time the mighty Gew would come forth from Iran to lead 
 me unto the throne." 
 
 Then Gew, delighted with the fire of the youth, and 
 being thus assured of his identity, fell down upon the 
 ground and did homage before him. But KaiKhosrau 
 quickly raised and embraced him, asking a thousand 
 questions of Iran and its heroes. 
 
 But Gew, knowing the need of haste, quickly mounted 
 the young Prince upon his charger, while he walked before 
 him; and so they journeyed until they came unto the city 
 of Siawush, and behold Ferangis received them joyfully, 
 her quick' spirit divining that the prophecy of her lord had 
 come to pass. But she also counselled haste, for she said: 
 
 "Verily, Afrasiab will be as a raging crocodile when he 
 learneth of thy coming. Let us flee quickly, therefore, be- 
 fore he heareth of thy mission. And now give heed unto 
 my words. Lo ! upon the crest of yonder mountain, whose 
 head riseth unto the clouds, there smileth in the sunshine 
 a meadow green as paradise, and browsing upon it are the 
 flocks of Siawush. Now in their midst, my son, roameth 
 Beezah, thy father's steed of battle. Go forth, therefore,
 
 Seated beside it a youth like unto a royal cypress.
 
 HOW GEW HELPED A HERO-PRINCE 293 
 
 and when thou hast come nigh unto him, whisper thy 
 father's name unto his ear, for so will he suffer thee to 
 mount him. And, seated upon his back, thou shalt escape 
 from the slayers of thy father." 
 
 So, following the directions of Ferangis, quickly Gew 
 and KaiKhosrau hastened unto the meadow, where they 
 found the steed of Siawush towering like a king above his 
 fellows. And lo! when Beezah beheld his master's sad- 
 dle, and the leopard-skin that he had worn, he whinnied 
 mournfully, his bright eyes softening with sudden dew. 
 Unresisting, he suffered KaiKhosrau to mount him, and 
 behold! when they were come again unto Ferangis, she 
 chose from among her treasures the armor of Siawush, in 
 which to gird her son, while she herself donned a suit of 
 mail like unto a warrior. Now, thus equipped, they 
 mounted their chargers and set forth. And none too soon, 
 for almost at once their flight was discovered. 
 
 Then, when the messengers sent for KaiKhosrau re- 
 ported unto Piran-Wisa that the youth had been carried 
 off by a Persian horseman, behold, he was filled with dis- 
 may, saying unto himself: 
 
 "Alas! now will be accomplished the fears of Afrasiab, 
 and mine honor will be tarnished in his eyes." 
 
 So quickly he commanded Kelbad and three hundred 
 valiant warriors that they pursue KaiKhosrau, bind him, 
 and bring him back in chains. And behold! so rapid were 
 the movements of Kelbad that he overtook the fugitives 
 in the vicinity of Bulgaria. 
 
 Now as the great chieftain and his party came in sight, 
 Ferangis and her son slept for weariness by the roadside. 
 But Gew, perceiving an armed force evidently in pursuit of 
 his party, nastily donned his armor, mounted Beezah, and
 
 294 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 advanced single-handed to the charge, attacking the 
 horsemen furiously with sword and mace. For, having 
 heard the prophecy which declared that KaiKhosrau was 
 destined to become the great King of Kings, he braved 
 the direst peril with confidence and the certainty of suc- 
 cess. And it was this feeling, no doubt, that enabled Gew 
 to perform such prodigies of valor. For, in a very short 
 time it came to pass that Kelbad and his three hun- 
 dred were utterly routed. Then this marvellous victory 
 achieved, quickly Gew returned unto the halting-place, 
 where, awakening his companions, he urged them to 
 haste. 
 
 But alas for the defeated three hundred! For their re- 
 turn excited the greatest indignation in the breast of 
 Piran-Wisa, who said angrily: 
 
 "What! Three hundred soldiers to fly from the valor 
 of one man! Why, had Gew possessed the might and 
 activity of Rustem himself, such a defeat could scarcely 
 have happened. Truly such faint-heartedness maketh my 
 soul sick with shame." 
 
 So saying, Piran and the thousand brave warriors under 
 his command started at once to overtake the fugitives, and 
 so swift was their march that they soon overtook the Valiant 
 Gew and his little party. And now KaiKhosrau insisted 
 upon being allowed to act his part, instead of remaining 
 ignominiously idle; but Gew, determined to preserve the 
 Prince from all risk, even at the peril of his own life, re- 
 plied unto him: 
 
 "Nay! Nay! Thou art our Prince, and therefore thy 
 life is too precious to be risked. As for me, if I fall, what 
 mattereth it? My father loveth me well, it is true, but 
 hath he not seventy-and-eight other sons like unto me?
 
 HOW GEW HELPED A HERO-PRINCE 295 
 
 Get thee upon yonder high eminence, therefore, and wit- 
 ness how one man shall put a thousand to flight. 
 
 So, though reluctantly, the Prince did as Gew desired, 
 and presently he heard the mighty son of Gudarz challenge 
 Piran to single combat. Now the contest that followed 
 was terrible, for though the Tartar general was old, he was 
 both experienced and skilful. Therefore, wrapped about 
 with his anger, and the fear of Afrasiab, he was no mean 
 antagonist. But verily not even Rustem himself could 
 have stood against Gew upon this eventful day, for, realiz- 
 ing that his opportunity had come, he, too, meant to have 
 his name writ large on the page of his country's story. So 
 presently, after much courage and persistency, it came to 
 pass that the Hero caught Piran in the meshes of his cord, 
 and brought him bound unto KaiKhosrau, in spite of the 
 shower of arrows that rained upon him like hail from the 
 bows of Piran's brave warriors. 
 
 And behold! this deed of prowess accomplished, back 
 again sped triumphant Gew to fight against the Tartar 
 braves. Yea, and so great was his prowess that soon the 
 plain was covered with the vanquished dead, while living 
 warriors, dismayed at the sight of such mighty valor, igno- 
 miniously fled in all directions, as though pursued by 
 Rustem, or the Great White Deev. So, the enemy being 
 put to flight, once more Gew returned unto his compan- 
 ions. But great was his surprise to behold Piran-Wisa 
 still alive. In explanation, however, Ferangis, whose eyes 
 were full of tears, said: 
 
 "O Mighty Gew, marvel not that the sword of Siawush 
 refuseth to take the life of this good old man, whose ten- 
 derness hath ever been an asylum unto our sorrows. Again 
 and again hath he saved the life of the Prince, as well as
 
 296 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 my own, and had he been ever at Afrasiab's right hand, 
 then verily would Siawush still be in the land of the living, 
 for Piran was ever his friend. And lo! now is the time 
 come for us to remember the benefits that we have re- 
 ceived at his hands." 
 
 But Gew, filled with consternation, replied unto the 
 pleadings of Ferangis: 
 
 "O Queen of the World, I pray thee speak not thus. 
 For alas! I have sworn a great oath that I would crimson 
 the earth with Piran's blood, and how can I depart from 
 my vow?" 
 
 Now hearing this, Ferangis was very sorrowful, but 
 KaiKhosrau said: 
 
 "O Hero like unto a mountain lion, verily thou shalt 
 not break thy oath; neither shalt thou slay this good old 
 man. I say unto thee, therefore, pierce with thy dagger 
 the lobes of Piran's ears, and let the blood stain the earth. 
 Thus may thy oath and my clemency both be satisfied." 
 
 So Gew did as KaiKhosrau desired, and lo ! when he had 
 crimsoned the earth with Piran's blood, they mounted him 
 upon his charger, and, after binding him thereon, they caused 
 him to swear unto them that none other than Gulshehr, his 
 wife, should release him from his bonds. And Piran sware 
 it, for he had not hoped to escape from the terrible Gew. 
 
 But behold! while these things were happening unto 
 Piran, Afrasiab, growing impatient as he heard not of the 
 capture of the Prince, set forth himself at the head of a 
 great army that he might lend his assistance. But alas 1 
 when he learned that the armies had been beaten at the 
 hands of one man, his cheeks grew pale with fear. Nev- 
 ertheless, he pressed on, but only to be met in a short time 
 by Piran, his Pehliva, tied helpless upon his charger.
 
 HOW GEW HELPED A HERO-PRINCE 297 
 
 Now at this sight the King's anger passed all bounds. 
 Reviling the old man, therefore, he commanded him that 
 he depart from out his presence forever. Then, urging 
 rapidly forward his army, he sware a great oath that he 
 himself would destroy this Gew, and utterly lay low the 
 head of KaiKhosrau and of Ferangis, his mother. And 
 that the fugitives might not escape him, at once he sent in- 
 structions unto all the ferrymen of the Jihun that they 
 allow not the three travellers to pass over the river, as he 
 himself was in pursuit of them. But alas! even this 
 thoughtfulness availed him naught, for ere they came nigh 
 unto the fleeing ones, behold, they were already come unto 
 the banks of the river. 
 
 And lo! on the brink of the rushing stream their glad 
 eyes perceived a boat lying ready, with a ferryman slum- 
 bering beside it. Now quickly Gew aroused the sleeping 
 one, asking that he bear them across the river. But the 
 man, having received the King's instructions, parleyed with 
 Gew, saying: 
 
 "Ho, Imperious One! Thy business demandeth haste? 
 Well, then, give unto me thy coat of mail, thy black 
 horse, yon woman, or the crown of gold worn by the young 
 warrior, as my fee, and quickly shalt thou be borne across." 
 
 But Gew, angry at the effrontery of the boatmen, also 
 suspecting his intentions, whispered unto the Prince: 
 
 " Behold, yonder cloud of dust seemeth to speak of pur- 
 suers and to warn against delay; also, I trust not this fer- 
 ryman. Now when Kavah, my brave ancestor, rescued 
 the glorious Feridoun, he passed over the stream in his 
 armor without hurt. Why should not we, then, in a cause 
 of equal glory, do the same?" 
 
 But alas! the river was swollen by the rains, its current
 
 298 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 being swift and treacherous. Nevertheless, the young 
 Prince, confiding in the protection of the Almighty, fear- 
 lessly urged his foaming steed into the boiling surges. 
 And behold! Ferangis followed with equal intrepidity, 
 while after her came Gew the bold. Now the passage was 
 rough and perilous, but nevertheless, after a hard fight, 
 they all succeeded in gaining the opposite shore, much to 
 the amazement of the ferryman, who had thought, as a 
 matter of course, that they would all be drowned. Feeling 
 the soil of Iran beneath their feet, however, KaiKhosrau, 
 dismounting, kissed the earth in gratitude and joy, giving 
 thanks unto Ormuzd for allowing him to escape in safety 
 unto his father's land. 
 
 Yet scarce had they escaped. For behold! even as they 
 touched the shore, Afrasiab and his army were come unto 
 the river. Now great was the mortification of the King 
 when he beheld the fugitives beyond his reach. Neverthe- 
 less, his wonder was equal to his disappointment; nor 
 could he withhold his admiration as he gazed, saying: 
 
 "What spirits must they have to brave 
 The terrors of that boiling wave 
 With steed and harness, riding o'er 
 The billows to the farther shore. 
 It was a cheering sight, they say, 
 To see how well they kept their way, 
 How Ferangis impelled her horse 
 Across that awful torrent's course, 
 Guiding him with heroic hand, 
 To reach unhurt the friendly stand." 
 
 Howbeit, when Afrasiab recovered from his astonish- 
 ment, in his anger and chagrin, he ordered the ferrymen 
 to get ready their boats to pass him over the river; but
 
 HOW GEW HELPED A HERO-PRINCE 299 
 
 Human finally dissuaded him from this foolish measure. 
 So, devoured with wrath and fear, Afrasiab retraced his 
 steps unto his capital, knowing that now his dream would 
 surely be fulfilled. 
 
 As for Valiant Gew, at once he sent swift messengers 
 unto the Court to bear unto the Shah the news of the com- 
 ing of the Prince. Whereupon, Kaikous rejoiced exceed- 
 ingly, sending forth an honorary deputation to escort his 
 grandson into his presence. Now the city was decked to 
 give him welcome, and all the nobles received him joyfully 
 as the heir unto the throne all excepting Tus, the son of 
 King Nuder, who gave his fealty unto Friburz, the son of 
 Kaikous. Nor was his opposition passive. For, when 
 invitations were issued unto a banquet in honor of Kai- 
 Khosrau, at which all the great heroes and leaders were 
 expected publicly to declare their loyalty unto the new 
 Prince, Tus refused to go. However, his refusal was not 
 accepted, Gew being deputed to repeat the invitation. But 
 alas! unto all Gew's arguments, Tus stubbornly replied: 
 
 "Verily, unto Friburz shall I pay homage, and unto 
 none other." 
 
 Now when Gew reported unto Gudarz, his father, what 
 had occurred, the old man was aroused to great wrath. 
 Rising up, therefore, at once he took twelve thousand men, 
 and his seventy-eight kinsmen, together with Gew, and 
 proceeded unto the palace of Tus to bring him to reason. 
 So, almost was there civil war in Persia; but finally Tus, 
 who disliked the thought of such a calamity, sent an envoy 
 unto Gudarz, suggesting that the matter be referred unto 
 the King. So one wise in speech appeared before Kaikous, 
 begging that he would settle the strife among the nobles. 
 For he said:
 
 300 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 "Alas, O King! If we are divided among ourselves, 
 surely we shall fall a prey unto Afrasiab. Let the Shah, 
 therefore, bind up this quarrel which already is serious, 
 and let us once more have peace." 
 
 Then Kaikous, realizing the seriousness of the matter, 
 said gravely unto the envoy: 
 
 "Verily, ye ask of me that which is hard, for both my 
 sons are dear unto me. Nevertheless, I will bethink me of 
 a means to quiet this discussion and restore peace." 
 
 Now Kaikous pondered deeply over this troublesome 
 question, but finally, calling his nobles together, he said: 
 
 "O Heroes of Iran, give heed unto my words, for verily 
 I have thought of a plan which shall settle this strife. 
 Behold! upon the borders of my dominion there is a 
 demon-fortress which no hero hath yet conquered. Let 
 KaiKhosrau and Friburz go forth, therefore, and let them 
 take with them an army, and lo! I will bestow the crown 
 and treasure upon the Prince at whose hands the castle 
 shall be subdued." 
 
 Thus spake Kaikous, and the plan being agreed upon, 
 Friburz begged of his father that he be sent forth first upon 
 the expedition. So, permission being given, gaily he and 
 Tus set out, promising to return triumphant within a few 
 days. 
 
 But alas! when the army reached the demon fort, lo! 
 the ground seemed all in flames one universal fire raging 
 round and round, while the withering wind which blew 
 from thence was like unto the scorching breath of red-hot 
 furnaces. And behold! though they searched and searched, 
 these warriors brave could find neither gate nor door of 
 entrance, though many a valiant one perished in the 
 search, consumed to ashes by the awful heat, which seemed
 
 HOW GEW HELPED A HERO-PRINCE 301 
 
 to be the poisoned breath of raging demons. So at length, 
 after a fruitless week, Friburz and Tus returned, worn out, 
 scorched, and half-dead with watching, care, and toil 
 and still the fortress stood. 
 
 So, it- being now KaiKhosrau's turn, bravely he set forth 
 with Gew and Gudarz, his faithful friends, and when he 
 saw the blazing fort, reddening all the earth and sky, full 
 well he knew that this could only be the work of sorcery. 
 And so, since in a heavenly dream he had been taught how 
 to destroy the charms of fell magicians, he wrote a letter, 
 amber-perfumed, in which he named the name of God. 
 Then piously he bound it unto his javelin's point, and when 
 he was come nigh unto the demon fort, behold, Gew the 
 Valiant, flung it far beyond the walls within the magic 
 citadel. 
 
 And lo! the missile safely lodged, a noise like thunder 
 rent the air, and all the world grew dark, as when the sun 
 hath gone to rest. Yea, and long it so remained, but 
 when at last once more the light appeared, behold, the 
 magic tower had vanished from the earth. 
 
 Now thus it was that KaiKhosrau vanquished the de- 
 mons, and thus it was also that at last he came into his own. 
 For, shortly after this wondrous victory, the coronation 
 ceremony took place with great pomp and splendor, Kai- 
 Khosrau the Prince becoming KaiKhosrau the Shah, of 
 whom the poet says: 
 
 "Justice he spread with equal hand, 
 Rooting oppression from the land; 
 And every desert, wood, and wild, 
 With early cultivation smiled; 
 And every plain with verdure clad, 
 And every Persian heart was glad."
 
 LATER FEATS OF RUSTEM 
 
 NOW in the Book of the Kings it is written that when 
 KaiKhosrau ascended the throne, Kaikous re- 
 quired him to swear a great oath that the waters 
 of forgetfulness should never quench the flame of vengeance 
 in his heart until Afrasiab, the murderer of Siawush, be 
 utterly destroyed. 
 
 So, when he was well settled upon his throne, KaiKhosrau 
 sent forth a great army under the leadership of Tus to 
 begin his work of vengeance. But alas! Tus, though 
 brave, was hot-headed and touchy; yea, and disobedient, 
 thereby bringing unto death Firoud, the valiant half- 
 brother of KaiKhosrau. When brought face to face with 
 the enemy, however, he and his men fought bravely, but 
 all to no purpose. 
 
 For lo! Afrasiab had sent Baru, a magician perfect in 
 his art, upon the neighboring mountains to involve them 
 in darkness, and to produce, by his conjuring, fearful 
 downfalls of snow and hail. Accordingly, when Tus and 
 his army advanced, they were deluged by a fearful down- 
 pour of rain and sleet, so that not even the fierce conflict 
 with Piran's brave warriors warmed their blood, which 
 seemed frozen in their veins. So the army of Iran suffered 
 a great defeat, and so terrible was their suffering from the 
 mighty cold, that the living envied their dead comrades. 
 
 Now in this extremity Tus and Gudarz prayed earnestly 
 unto Ormuzd, when lo! the Angel Serosch appeared unto 
 302
 
 LATER FEATS OF RUSTEM 303 
 
 them, pointing unto the mountain from whence the tem- 
 pest descended. Quickly, then, brave Gudarz galloped 
 unto the summit, where he discovered the magician deeply 
 engaged in incantation and witchcraft. Hesitating not, 
 therefore, he hastily drew his sword and cut off the 
 wizard's arms. Then suddenly a great whirlwind arose, 
 sweeping away the darkness that prevailed, and then noth- 
 ing remained of the snow, the hail, or the cold. And now, 
 the armies being upon a more equal footing, behold, the 
 heroes of Iran fought so valiantly that soon they won a 
 glorious victory. 
 
 Then Tus was glad, and to celebrate the victory he 
 made a great feast, darkening the heads of his warriors 
 with wine. But presently when the revelry was at its 
 height, and when Gudarz alone was master of his fate, 
 behold, Afrasiab was upon them, and then fearful was 
 the slaughter and utter the defeat of Iran. And thus 
 ended the campaign of Tus, for when KaiKhosrau learned 
 of his folly he bade Friburz, the son of Kaikous, take unto 
 him the flag of Kavah, and the golden boots, and lead the 
 army in place of Tus. 
 
 So Friburz, after he had reorganized and reinforced 
 the army, once again offered battle unto Piran-Wisa, and 
 there was waged a conflict such as the sun hath ne'er 
 looked upon. But alas! the heroes of Iran were utterly 
 routed; and as the handful of survivors appeared before 
 the Shah, lo, they carried their hands crossed upon their 
 breasts, and they were humble as slaves. Then was Kai- 
 Khossau sick with shame when he beheld this sorry lot of 
 heroes, and in his sore displeasure he withdrew from his 
 courts, letting not the light of his countenance shine upon 
 his people.
 
 304 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 So, in their sorrow and desperation, once more the no- 
 bles hastened unto Seistan, beseeching Rustem to come 
 unto their aid. And the Mighty One, tarrying not for 
 rest, quickly came forth, mustering and putting the army 
 into battle order. And behold! when again the two op- 
 posing forces were met in conflict, the day belonged unto 
 Iran. 
 
 Then Afrasiab, hearing of the arrival of Rustem, imme- 
 diately called unto his aid three distinguished champions: 
 Shinkul, Khakan, and Kamus. Now all these warriors 
 had wondrous records Kamus particularly: 
 
 "For when he frowned, the air grew freezing cold; 
 And when he smiled, the genial spring smiled down 
 Roses and hyacinths, and all was brightness!" 
 
 Now upon the arrival of the three champions, it was to 
 the great Kamus that Piran first paid his respects, describ- 
 ing unto him, in glowing colors, the strength and prowess 
 of Rustem. But Kamus, in nowise disturbed, replied 
 coolly unto Piran: 
 
 "Is praise like this to Rustem due? 
 
 And what if all thou sayest be true ? 
 
 Are his large limbs of iron made? 
 
 Will they resist my trenchant blade? 
 
 His head may now his shoulders grace, 
 
 But will it long retain its place? 
 Let me but meet him in the fight, 
 
 And thou shalt see Kamus's might ! " 
 
 But alas! when Kamus the confident challenged Rus- 
 tem, quickly the Hero despatched him. Yea, and not only 
 him, but Shinkul and Khakan as well. Then was Afra- 
 siab terrified, and quickly he sent Piran- Wisa forth to sue
 
 ly engaged in incantation and witchcraft.
 
 LATER FEATS OF RUSTEM 305 
 
 for peace. And Rustem spake graciously unto the old 
 general, giving unto him greeting from KaiKhosrau, and 
 lauding him for his good deeds unto Siawush, and unto 
 Sohrab, his son. And he said: 
 
 "O Grand Old Hero, truly thou art worthy a better 
 master than black-hearted Afrasiab. Come over unto 
 Iran, therefore, and thou shalt have honor, and happiness, 
 and riches while thou livest, for nightly KaiKhosrau and 
 his mother behold thy face in their dreams, and much 
 they long to see thee." 
 
 But Piran, with tears in his eyes, said unto Rustem: 
 
 "O Hero of Heroes! For five hundred years have I 
 served Turan, my native land, and though my heart goeth 
 out unto KaiKhosrau, my son, yet can I not prove unfaith- 
 ful unto those who rely upon my good faith. So did not 
 brave Siawush; and Turan, too, hath her heroes, O Mighty 
 One, even as Iran the land of light." 
 
 Now Rustem's heart went out in admiration unto this 
 splendid old hero, and he said: 
 
 "O noble Pehliva! verily I give thee honor for thy 
 loyalty and faith, even while I grieve that Iran cannot pos- 
 sess thee. As for the terms of peace, KaiKhosrau de- 
 sireth naught but that the murderers of Siawush be 
 delivered into his hands." 
 
 Then Piran said sadly unto Rustem: 
 
 "O gracious Pehliva, that which thou asketh, verily it 
 can never be. For the slayers of Siawush are near kins- 
 folk unto Afrasiab, who will never give them up." 
 
 So, as naught could be done, the Heroes parted sadly, 
 but in friendship, even though they knew that battle must 
 rage between them. And behold! once more the opposing 
 forces were drawn up for conflict.
 
 306 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 "Now 'twas mid -day when the strife began, 
 With steed to steed and man to man; 
 And clouds of dust that rolled on high, 
 Threw darkness o'er the earth and sky. 
 Each soldier on the other rushed, 
 And every blade with crimson blushed, 
 And valiant hearts were trod upon, 
 
 Like sand beneath the horse's feet. 
 And when the warrior's life was gone, 
 
 His mail became his winding sheet." 
 
 And alas! for forty days the battle raged thus, until the 
 plains were so strewn with the bodies of the slain that an 
 ant could not have found a road to pass between them. 
 Now blood flowed upon all sides, and heads without 
 bodies, and bodies without heads, covered the ground. 
 For neither the claws of the leopard nor the trunk of the 
 elephant, neither the high mountains nor the waters of 
 the earth, could prevail against Rustem when he fought 
 at the head of his hosts. 
 
 Now he slew the mightiest of the Tartars, and only 
 good old Piran was he mindful to spare; yea, and when 
 the remnant of the host finally fled before his wrath, he 
 pursued them even unto the mountains, where Afrasiab 
 and his kinsfolk, in their terror, had hidden themselves, 
 and he destroyed his courts utterly with fire, after which 
 he turned him back unto Iran. Then the heart of KaiKhos- 
 rau rejoiced like unto a paradise, and for a month Rustem 
 abode in his presence, feasted and lauded continually, after 
 which he returned once more unto Seistan. 
 
 "And now we come to Akwan Dew, 
 Whom Rustem next in combat slew." 
 
 For it is related that one day shortly after Rustem' s 
 return unto Seistan, as KaiKhosrau was sitting in his
 
 LATER FEATS OF RUSTEM 307 
 
 beautiful garden abounding in roses and the balmy luxu- 
 riance of spring, surrounded by his heroes, and enjoying 
 the pleasures of the banquet, lo, a shepherd came unto the 
 Court demanding audience, and when it was granted he 
 said: 
 
 "O King of Kings! Behold, a wild ass is broken in 
 among my horses, and he doeth great mischief, for his 
 ferocity is that of a lion or a demon. Send forth, there- 
 fore, I entreat thee, one of thy heroes that he may slay 
 him, else am I ruined." 
 
 Now the Shah knew right well that this was no wild ass, 
 but the evil Deev, Akwan Dew, who had taken upon him 
 this disguise. And knowing that none but Rustem would 
 be equal to this adventure, a swift messenger was at once 
 sent unto Seistan to summon him forth. And the Mighty 
 One obeyed the voice of the Shah, for he was weary of 
 inactivity, and this promised to be an exciting adventure. 
 
 So presently, guided by the shepherds, Rustem set 
 forth, but it was not until the fourth day of his search that 
 he fell in with the Deev. Now being anxious to take this 
 wicked one alive in order to send him as a trophy unto 
 KaiKhosrau, the Hero tried to throw his cord about him. 
 But behold! in a moment the wild ass vanished under his 
 hand. Whereupon, Rustem knew that it was really 
 Akwan Dew with whom he had to deal, and that he must 
 fight against the powers of magic. Yet was he not dis- 
 mayed. 
 
 And now, the wild ass again appearing, lo, Rustem pur- 
 sued him with his drawn sword. When he would have 
 run him through, however, behold! the weapon cut naught 
 but the empty air, for again the Deev had vanished under 
 his hands. Then, disappointed with his sword, the Hero
 
 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 tried both spear and arrow, but still to no purpose, for 
 again and yet again the wicked one escaped his blows by 
 vanishing. And alas! thus for three days and nights Rus- 
 tem fought, as it were, against a shadow. Wearied at 
 last, with his fruitless exertions, however, presently he 
 dismounted, and leading Rakush unto a green spot near 
 a limpid fountain, he allowed him to graze, while he 
 himself went to sleep. 
 
 But lo ! when the Deev saw that Rustem slept, he rushed 
 toward him like a whirlwind, and, rapidly digging up the 
 ground on every side, took up the plot of ground and the 
 Champion together, placed them upon his head, and de- 
 liberately walked away with them. Howbeit, at this 
 critical moment Rakush, beholding the peril of his master, 
 neighed loudly, thus awaking Rustem. And lo! when the 
 Hero saw what had befallen, he feared his hour was come, 
 yet he did not despair. The Deev, however, seeing that 
 his captive was awake, said unto him: 
 
 "Warrior ! now no longer free ! 
 Tell me what thy wish may be; 
 Shall I plunge thee in the sea, 
 
 Or leave thee on the mountain drear, 
 
 None to give thee succor near? 
 Tell thy wish to me!" 
 
 Now Rustem, knowing that the Deevs act ever by the 
 rule of contraries, and realizing that if thrown into the sea 
 his chance for escape would be better, quickly said unto 
 the Deev: 
 
 "O, plunge me not in the roaring sea, 
 The maw of a fish is no home for me; 
 But cast me forth on the mountain; there 
 Is the lion's haunt and the tiger's lair;
 
 LATER FEATS OF RUSTEM 309 
 
 And for them I shall be a morsel of food, 
 They will eat my flesh and drink my blood; 
 But my bones will be left to show the place 
 Where this form was devoured by the feline race; 
 Yes, something will then remain of me, 
 Whilst nothing escapes from the roaring sea!" 
 
 Thus spake Rustem in his guile, and well for him was 
 it that his mind was so fertile in invention. For behold! 
 the wicked Akwan Dew, having learned the particular de- 
 sire of the Hero, quickly raised him up with his hands and 
 flung him from his lofty height headlong into the deep 
 and roaring ocean, at a spot where hungry crocodiles would 
 devour him. 
 
 And alas! scarcely had the Champion touched the water, 
 when one of these horrible creatures speedily darted upon 
 him with the eager intention of devouring him alive. But 
 in the twinkling of an eye Rustem drew his sword and 
 severed the monster's head. Then quickly another came, 
 and was put to death in the same manner, and the water 
 was crimsoned with blood. And while the Hero fought 
 the crocodiles with his right hand, with his left he swam 
 toward the shore, and though long was the struggle and 
 sore, yet finally, when night was fallen, he at last suc- 
 ceeded in putting his foot upon the dry land. Then, when 
 he had given thanks unto Ormuzd, and rested him, he 
 returned unto the spot by the fountain. 
 
 But here a most unpleasant surprise awaited him, for 
 Rakush, his steed, was not there. Then fear fell upon 
 Rustem, and eagerly he wandered about seeking his 
 matchless charger; but in vain, until at last, coming unto 
 a green meadow, he spied him among the horses of Afra- 
 siab. For alas ! while the Champion was fighting the croco-
 
 310 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 diles and the mighty surges of the ocean, the keepers had 
 succeeded in ensnaring Rakush. 
 
 When the mighty war-horse heard the soft whistle of 
 his master, however, he neighed joyously, and brake from 
 the keepers, running with swift foot unto Rustem, rub- 
 bing his nose gently against his shoulder, as if to make sure 
 it was really he. But no sooner had the Hero mounted, than 
 horse and rider of one accord made a swift dash for the 
 keepers, right speedily running them down, and despatch- 
 ing them. Then Rustem took the herds, together with 
 four white elephants, unto himself. 
 
 But presently, as the Hero tarried in the midst of the 
 herds, Afrasiab whose heart yearned to look upon his 
 favorite steeds, came forth from his hiding-place, dream- 
 ing not that his enemy was near. When he beheld Rus- 
 tem, therefore, he was dismayed, for he thought that the 
 Champion had discovered his hiding-place and was come 
 forth to take him. So, quickly he offered battle unto the 
 Pehliva, supported by those who were with him. But 
 alas for Afrasiab! for again Rustem fought with such 
 might that he quickly overcame the whole force, slaying 
 sixty with his sword and forty with his mace. Then the 
 King, terrified, fled swiftly and silently away unto a new 
 hiding-place, lamenting anew his bitter fate. 
 
 Now Rustem longed to pursue Afrasiab, but at this mo- 
 ment Akwan Dew came forth once more, thinking that 
 after such a strenuous fight the Hero would fall an easy 
 prey into his hands. But Rustem, springing quickly upon 
 him, struck such a mighty blow with his sword that lo! the 
 Deev's head rolled off, before that he could vanish by 
 magic, as before. Then triumphantly Rustem returned 
 unto the Court, bearing with him, as trophies of his advent-
 
 LATER FEATS OF RUSTEM 311 
 
 ure, Afrasiab's favorite steeds, and the hideous head of 
 the wicked Akwan Dew, who would trouble the world no 
 more with his wickedness and tricks of sorcery. 
 
 So ended Rustem's adventure with the Deev, but behold! 
 another was soon to follow, and this was nothing less than 
 his conflict with the Champion Barzu. Yea, and almost 
 was this the Hero's last combat so mighty was the prowess 
 of this giant, especially trained by Afrasiab to cause the 
 world to become dark unto Rustem. 
 
 Now when KaiKhosrau learned that Afrasiab had put 
 into the field against him ten thousand experienced horse- 
 men, under Barzu, his mighty champion, he was amazed; 
 for he had not dreamed that so soon after his overwhelm- 
 ing defeat he could place another large army in commis- 
 sion. However, he ordered Tus and Friburz, with twelve 
 thousand horsemen, to go forth at once, while he prepared 
 to follow later with a still larger force. Yea, and he sent 
 for Rustem also, for this time he hoped to exterminate 
 utterly, not only Afrasiab, but all his kin. 
 
 But alas! before KaiKhosrau arrived at the front Barzu 
 and Tus had engaged in a terrible battle, which resulted 
 in a glorious victory for the men of Turan. Yea, and 
 worse! for so terrible was the might of Barzu, that in the 
 end, all the Persians fled, leaving Tus and Friburz to fall 
 into the hands of the Tartars. Quickly, however, Rustem 
 hastened to the rescue of the two heroes, taking with him 
 Gustahem, the brother of Tus. 
 
 Now the two warriors stole softly into the enemy's camp, 
 and by chance they came unto the tent of the King, wherein 
 they found what they sought. For behold! Afrasiab was 
 seated upon his throne, with Barzu upon his right hand, 
 and Piran-Wisa upon his left, while Tus and Friburz stood
 
 312 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 in chains before them. And, listening, the two warriors 
 heard the King say unto the captive Princes: 
 
 "Sleep well, O Persian Dogs! for to-morrow shall ye 
 behold the sun rise for the last time, since ye are sen- 
 tenced to die the death of Siawush." 
 
 Thus spake black-hearted Afrasiab, and departed, 
 leaving the prisoners in the hands of the guards. Then 
 Rustem, requesting Gustahem to follow cautiously, drew 
 near and waited until the watchmen were off their guard. 
 Then silently they overpowered and killed them, stealing 
 softly away with their prisoners, without being discovered, 
 and behold! great was the rejoicing when they were come 
 safely unto the Persian camp. 
 
 But alas! when Afrasiab learned that Rustem had stolen 
 into his camp and liberated the prisoners, he fairly writhed 
 with anger and mortification. And at once he sent forth 
 Barzu to challenge Rustem to single combat. 
 
 So the Champion of the World went forth, and behold, 
 Barzu was his equal in size, and apparently also in strength 
 and skill. For though they fought long, first with one 
 weapon, then with another, Rustem prevailed not. Then 
 they tried wrestling, and terrible were the wrenches and 
 grasps they gave and received, but Barzu, noting that this 
 also was vain, once more grasped his mace, and, raising it 
 high, struck Rustem such a blow upon the head that the 
 Champion thought a whole mountain had fallen upon 
 him. But, though one arm was completely disabled, no 
 sign thereof did Rustem give to the great amazement 
 of Barzu, who cried: 
 
 "Truly, thou art a most surprising warrior, and seem- 
 ingly invulnerable. Now if I had struck such a blow upon 
 a mountain, quickly would it have been broken into a
 
 LATER FEATS OF RUSTEM 313 
 
 thousand fragments; and yet upon thee it seemeth no 
 more than the prick of a flea." 
 
 Yea, and he said unto himself, shaking his head 
 thoughtfully: 
 
 "Heaven forbid that I should ever receive so bewilder- 
 ing a blow upon my own head!" 
 
 But Rustem, having successfully concealed the anguish 
 of his wound, now artfully suggested that, as it was late, 
 perhaps it would be better to finish the combat on the fol- 
 lowing day, to which Barzu readily agreed, as he, too, 
 was exhausted by the long struggle. So the two champions 
 retired, and Rustem, showing his lacerated arm unto the 
 Shah, said: 
 
 "O Glorious One! Behold, I have escaped from yon 
 raging dragon, but I bring back with me the marks of his 
 teeth. And now, alas! who will finish the struggle on the 
 morrow?" 
 
 But behold! though Rustem spent a night of pain and 
 grief, morning brought unto him glad news, for Feramurz, 
 his glorious son, arrived unexpectedly in camp. 
 
 So, a few hours later, when both armies were drawn up, 
 and Barzu, like a mad elephant, rode forward to resume 
 the combat, he was met, apparently, by his old antagonist. 
 For lo! Rustem had attired Feramurz in his own armor, 
 supplied him with his own weapons, and mounted him 
 upon Rakush, telling him to represent himself unto Barzu 
 as the warrior who had engaged him the day before. 
 
 Now as Feramurz rode forward he shot an arrow at 
 Barzu, crying: 
 
 "O Youthful Giant! Behold thine adversary come 
 forth once more to try thy strength. Advance, therefore, 
 and beware!"
 
 314 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 But Barzu, amazed at such lightness of spirit, cried: 
 
 "O Mighty One! Why this hilarity? ' Art thou, then, so 
 reckless of thy life?" 
 
 And Feramurz, laughing, said: 
 
 "Knowest thou not, O Sober One, that the field of fight 
 is, unto the warrior, the mansion of pleasure ? Wherefore, 
 then, should I not be gay?" 
 
 But Barzu, who began to suspect that he had to do 
 with a new antagonist, said tauntingly: 
 
 "O Light O' Heart! Is the champion whom I encoun- 
 tered yesterday perhaps wounded or dead, that thou hast 
 attired thyself in his mail and mounted his charger?" 
 
 Now to this challenge Feramurz replied still gayly: 
 
 "Perhaps thou hast lost thy wits, O Giant, since thou 
 knowest not thy adversary. Now almost I extinguished 
 thee yesterday, and to-day I mean to finish thee; so once 
 more I say unto thee, beware!" 
 
 Thus saying, Feramurz rushed valiantly upon his ad- 
 versary, struck him blow upon blow with his battle-axe, 
 and drawing his noose from the saddle-strap, with the 
 quickness of lightning he secured his prize. Then might 
 he speedily have put an end to Barzu' s existence, but he 
 preferred taking him alive to exhibit unto the army. 
 
 But not without a struggle was Feramurz to carry off 
 his prize, for Afrasiab, seeing the perilous condition of his 
 Champion, quickly pressed forward his whole army to the 
 rescue. But KaiKhosrau and Rustem, equally on the alert, 
 quickly supported Feramurz Rustem throwing another 
 noose around the already captured Barzu, to prevent the 
 possibility of his escape. And now, so great was the grief 
 of Afrasiab for the loss of Ba'rzu, that he immediately re- 
 treated across the Jihun, quitting Persia with all his troops.
 
 LATER FEATS OF RUSTEM . 315 
 
 As for Barzu, beholding in the youthful giant great pos- 
 sibilities, Rustem begged KaiKhossau that his life might 
 be spared, and carried him back with him unto Seistan. 
 Yea, and here he assisted Rustem greatly in his next ad- 
 venture, which was with Susen, a wicked sorceress, as you 
 shall hear. 
 
 For behold! shortly after his return unto Seistan, Rus- 
 tem invited unto his courts a large number of the most 
 celebrated heroes of the kingdom, since he proposed to give 
 a most magnificent banquet. But alas that it must be 
 recorded! before the feast had even begun, some of the 
 heroes fell out as even heroes will and dire were the 
 consequences. 
 
 For you must know that among the honored guests were 
 Tus and Gudarz, who were ever hostile unto each other, 
 and, sad to relate, shortly after their arrival at Seistan, as 
 usual, a dispute took place between them this time it 
 being a question of precedence. As a consequence, there- 
 fore, Tus, who ever boasted of his ancestry, reviled Gu- 
 darz in his anger, saying unto the old warrior: 
 
 " Old Man! How canst thou put thyself upon a footing 
 with me? For verily I am the son of Nuder, and the 
 grandson of Feridoun, whilst thou art but the son of 
 Kavah the smith." 
 
 Now this naturally angered Gudarz, who replied unto 
 Tus: 
 
 "Vain Boaster, though thy ancestors were wise and 
 mighty, greatly I fear that their robe of merit reacheth not 
 unto thee. As for the ancestry of Gudarz, hear me this 
 once, then put a chain upon the door of thy lips forever. 
 For think you I need blush to be the kinsman of the glori- 
 ous Kavah? Verily, nay; rather, I glory in him. For
 
 316 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 was he not the man who, when the world could boast of 
 little valor, tore wrathfully up the infamous name-roll of 
 Zohak, giving unto the Persians freedom from the fangs 
 of the devouring serpents ? Was it not he, I say, who raised 
 the first banner, proclaiming aloud freedom for Iran? 
 Verily unto Kavah the empire oweth its greatest blessing, 
 so well may Gudarz glory to be his son!" 
 
 Unto this, however, Tus, beside himself with wrath, 
 rejoined: 
 
 "Old Man, thine arrow may pierce an anvil, but mine 
 can pierce the heart of the Kaf mountain!" 
 
 But Gudarz, smiling, softly said: 
 
 "Verily, if words were deeds, then would the Mighty 
 Tus rival his glorious ancestors!" 
 
 And alas! this so aroused the anger of Tus, that swiftly 
 he drew forth his dagger to punish the offender. But 
 Rehham interfered in behalf of Gudarz, which so in- 
 creased the rage of Tus that in high dudgeon the Hero re j 
 tired from the company and set out upon his return unto 
 Iran. 
 
 Now Rustem was not present when the dispute took 
 place, but when he heard of it he was displeased 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 honored. And he said: 
 
 "Verily a guest should be held as sacred as a king, and 
 it is ever the custom of heroes to treat a guest as the king 
 of the feast." 
 
 And having thus spoken, Rustem requested Gudarz to 
 go after Tus, and by fair words and proper excuses bring 
 him back unto the festal board. So Gudarz departed, but 
 scarcely was he gone when Gew rose up and said :
 
 LATER FEATS OF RUSTEM 317 
 
 "Tus, in his anger is little better than a madman, and 
 my father also hath a hasty temper where he is concerned. 
 I should like, therefore, O Mighty One, to follow after 
 them to prevent further disagreement." 
 
 So, consent being given by Rustem, behold, Gew went 
 forth taking with him Byzun, who was also anxious to go. 
 But when the three heroes had departed, lo, Rustem be- 
 came apprehensive, so he sent Feramurz forth also to pre- 
 serve the peace. Then finally Zal, fearing that Tus might 
 not be easily prevailed upon to return, either by Gudarz, 
 Gew, Byzun, or Feramurz, resolved to go forth himself to 
 soothe the temper so unwisely ruffled at the banquet. 
 
 Now it happened that Tus was obliged, on his return 
 journey, to pass by the abode of Susen the sorceress. And 
 alas! though he suspected it not, this was a trap which 
 Afrasiab had set to ensnare the heroes of Iran particu- 
 larly Rustem, whom the King greatly desired to secure, 
 and whom the sorceress had promised to destroy, together 
 with his whole family. For she said unto the King: 
 
 "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!" 
 
 So, the snare being set, lo, as Tus approached this en- 
 chanted abode, he beheld cooks and confectioners on all 
 sides, preparing many and rare dishes of food, together 
 with every species of sweetmeat. And alas! disappointed 
 of Rustem's banquet, also hungry and curious, Tus dis- 
 mounted and, leaving his horse with an attendant, entered
 
 318 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 the great dining-hall, where he was met by the charming 
 sorceress herself, who, escorting him unto a table bounte- 
 ously supplied with charmed viands, and goblets of rich 
 wine, spake unto him gay words, waiting upon him with 
 her own fair hands. 
 
 But behold! after Tus had eaten a few mouthfuls, he 
 began to feel very strange, and presently, his armor burst- 
 ing asunder, he gazed in horror at himself, for he perceived 
 sharp quills sticking out from his body in all directions, 
 and happening to glance in a mirror, he beheld, not Tus, 
 the descendant of Kings, but a great, ugly wild boar. 
 And lo ! as he would have cried out in his dismay, he could 
 do naught but grunt. Then the enchantress, laughing 
 wickedly, drove him out into a yard, from which there was 
 no escape, and prepared for her next victim. 
 
 And as it happened unto Tus, so chanced it with all the 
 heroes sent after him, save only White-haired Zal him 
 could they not entice, for he would neither enter the en- 
 chanted dwelling, nor taste of the charmed food and wine. 
 For lo! Serosch the Blessed had whispered into his ear 
 that the howling wild boars in the yard were the heroes 
 who had preceded him. 
 
 And when Zal realized what had befallen, quickly he 
 sent word unto Rustem. Then, single-handed, he attacked 
 the sorceress, who, perceiving that she was discovered, 
 quickly fled into the strong-room of the palace, securely 
 bolting the door. But tirelessly Zal battered the iron until 
 it could resist his blows no more, whereupon, out rushed 
 a mighty Deev, who at once began a furious battle with 
 Zal, in which he was nearly victorious. But fortunately 
 Feramurz, who had been delayed by the way, now came 
 up, and bidding the venerable Zal stand aside, he took his
 
 LATER FEATS OF RUSTEM 319 
 
 place, fighting fiercely with the wicked one until Rustem 
 and Barzu arrived upon the scene. 
 
 And behold! learning what had happened, Rustem was 
 struck with horror, for seldom was an enchanter so bold 
 as to change the form of his victim. Leaving giant Barzu 
 to combat with the Deev, therefore, in spite of the forces of 
 magic that opposed him, Rustem succeeded in piercing 
 unto the innermost hiding-place of the sorceress, and 
 though again and again she changed her shape in her 
 efforts to escape, he dragged her pitilessly forth into the 
 yard where the heroes, in the shape of wild boars, were 
 making the night hideous with their howls and growls. 
 And here the Champion said unto his victim: 
 
 " O Wicked One, quickly restore these heroes unto their 
 proper shape, else shall my life-destroying sword quickly 
 make an end of thee, even as happened unto Akwan Dew." 
 
 Now the sorceress, beholding herself in the power of 
 Deev-destroying Rustem, quickly restored the heroes unto 
 themselves. But alas for Susen! for so thankful were 
 her victims to escape from her power, that instinctively 
 they exclaimed with one accord: "Thank God!" at which 
 the wicked sorceress at once vanished from both sight and 
 hearing. 
 
 Then quickly Rustem returned unto Barzu, but he also 
 had vanquished his foe, though the Deev had evaded the 
 stroke of his sword many times by vanishing. So, the 
 wicked ones being both destroyed, Rustem set fire unto the 
 enchanted mansion, after which the heroes all rode back 
 unto Seistan, where they feasted gaily for a whole week. 
 
 And behold! from this time forth, Tus and Gudarz dis- 
 puted no more, for when they were tempted, they quickly 
 remembered those dreadful hours spent as snapping,
 
 320 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 snarling beasts, and so they refrained, realizing that such 
 conduct was unworthy of heroes. 
 
 After this it came to pass that yet again Afrasiab raised a 
 mighty army to go forth in vengeance against Iran, and be- 
 hold ! this time their progress was stayed by Gudarz the wise, 
 who, at the head of the heroes of Iran, disputed their ad- 
 vance. Now the contest waged was long and bitter, and the 
 slaughter fearful, for not only did the two great hosts fight 
 en masse, but after this, lo, the flower of the armies met, 
 one couple after the other, in single combat. And alas! in 
 this mighty hero-contest, brave Piran-Wisa met a glorious 
 death. 
 
 Then, in his anger and despair at brave Piran's loss, 
 Afrasiab sent forth his dearly-loved son Scheideh, bid- 
 ding him challenge the Shah of Iran to combat and utterly 
 to lay him low. But behold! Rustem answered the sum- 
 mons, and soon the son of the King lay lifeless upon the 
 plain. Yea, and now the Champion routed the army of 
 Turan utterly, and once more the King was forced to be- 
 come a wanderer, together with his few remaining kins- 
 folk. 
 
 But not long did Afrasiab escape the hands of justice. 
 For presently Hum, a hermit of the race of Feridoun, 
 discovered and brought the wretched monarch unto Kai- 
 Khosrau, who caused both the King and wicked Gersiwaz 
 to perish even as they had caused death to come upon 
 Siawush the Prince. 
 
 And now a strange thing happened in Iran. For Kai- 
 Khosrau, fearing to become uplifted in pride like unto 
 Jemshed, because that all the people loved and praised 
 him, determined, after much prayer unto Ormuzd, to quit 
 the world before this evil should come to pass. And alas!
 
 LATER FEATS OF RUSTEM 321 
 
 though Zal and Rustem came purposely up from Seistan 
 to try to influence KaiKhosrau against this strange deter- 
 mination, yet was it vain. 
 
 So, after having appointed Lohurasp as his successor, 
 and arranged all things for his departure, KaiKhosrau got 
 him upon his horse to go forth unto the mountains. And 
 behold ! there went with him Zal and Rustem, Gudarz also, 
 and Gustahem and Gew, Byzun the Valiant, Friburz, the 
 son of Kaikous, and Tus the Pehliva. 
 
 Now these heroes followed after KaiKhosrau from the 
 plain even unto the crest of the mountains, and they ceased 
 not from mourning that which was done of their King, 
 striving to change his purpose. But KaiKhosrau, at peace 
 with himself and the world, gave not ear unto their sup- 
 plications. 
 
 So disconsolately the little company followed the King, 
 who was guided in his path by a flock of wondrous pheas- 
 ants, until they were come unto a place where there 
 seemed to be no farther path. Then KaiKhosrau said unto 
 the heroes: 
 
 "O my Pehliva, here must we part, for almost have I 
 reached the fountain shown unto me by the Angel of God; 
 and from here on I enter upon a path where there is 
 neither herb nor water. Return, therefore, upon the road 
 that ye have come, for lo! my hour is at hand. 
 
 So Zal and Rustem and Gudarz bade KaiKhosrau a ten- 
 der farewell, and with tear-blinded eyes returned unto the 
 plain, lamenting that one upon whom Heaven had bestowed 
 a mind so great, and a heart so brave, could not await his 
 hour in patience. 
 
 But alas! Gew, and Tus, arid Byzun, and Friburz, being 
 unwilling to go back, followed after the King yet another
 
 322 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 day. But so rough was the way that their strength was 
 spent when evening was come. However, KaiKhosrau 
 cheered them, and soon were they come unto the Fountain 
 of Rest. And now, once again, the Shah bade that his 
 heroes leave him, saying: 
 
 "O Valiant Ones! Return quickly upon your path when 
 I am gone, neither linger in this place, though it should 
 rain diamonds and pearls, musk and amber. For pres- 
 ently, out of the mountains a mighty storm will arise, and 
 there will come a fall of snow, which shall prove the 
 winding-sheet of all who linger. Farewell, then, O my 
 Brave Heroes, and forget not to give heed unto my words 
 of warning." 
 
 Now, so speaking, KaiKhosrau stepped into the foun- 
 tain, immediately vanishing. 
 
 "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 KaiKhosrau's grave!" 
 
 And alas for his brave heroes! For in their grief and 
 weariness, heedlessly they laid themselves down by the 
 fountain to sleep, and presently, even as predicted by the 
 vanished King, a mighty wind arose, and the snow fell 
 thick and soft, awakening not the tired ones who slum- 
 bered so fatally beside the Pool of Rest. Yea, and their 
 sleep was long, for when, many days after, Zal and Rustem 
 went forth to seek the missing ones, behold, they found 
 them slumbering still, covered o'er by soft, white blankets 
 of snow. But alas! so complete was the passing of Kai- 
 Khosrau that his body they found not, though they dragged 
 the fatal fountain in their search. Sorrowfully, however,
 
 LATER FEATS OF RUSTEM 323 
 
 they bare the snow-covered heroes back unto the plain, 
 amidst the wailing of the whole army. And well might 
 they weep, for thus perished the flower of the heroes of 
 Iran, and thus also ended the old regime, so glorious in its 
 record of brave deeds.
 
 ISFENDIYAR'S SEVEN LABORS, OR 
 HEFTKHAN 
 
 "Rustem had seven great labors, wondrous power 
 Nerved his strong arm in danger's needful hour; 
 And now Firdusi's legend strains declare 
 The seven great labors of Isfendiyar." 
 
 NOW of all the heroes of Persia, none so nearly ri- 
 valled Rustem as the brave Isfendiyar, son of 
 Gushtasp the Shah. Young, valiant, and pos- 
 sessed of great ability and promise, his father gave unto 
 him the command of his armies, promising unto him the 
 throne of Iran, if he should conquer Arjasp the demon 
 king, who threatened to bring the Persians beneath his 
 yoke. Now thus it is that we hear of Isfendiyar first. 
 And short work, indeed, did he make of his campaign with 
 the Deevs, for though so fierce was the fight that the heroes 
 closed not their eyes in slumber, neither ceased from con- 
 flict for the space of twice seven days, yet in the end did 
 the valor and might of Isfendiyar prevail, and Arjasp was 
 forced to flee before the face of the valorous youth and his 
 brave warriors. 
 
 So, having won this glorious victory, joyously Isfendiyar 
 returned unto his father, craving his blessing. But Gush- 
 tasp said: 
 
 "O my brave son, truly thy deeds have been glorious, 
 but before thou mountest the throne of thy father I must 
 send thee forth yet again, that thou mayest win the whole 
 world unto Zerdusht, the Great Prophet, for so will thy 
 reign be blessed." 
 
 324
 
 ISFENDIYAR'S SEVEN LABORS 325 
 
 So again Isfendiyar went forth as warrior-crusader, and 
 lo! he travelled not only through all the provinces of Per- 
 sia, but even unto foreign lands. And, so successful was 
 he that 
 
 "Where'er he went he was received 
 With welcome, all the world believed, 
 And all with grateful feelings took 
 The Holy Zendavesta-book, 
 Proud their new worship to declare, 
 The worship of Isfendiyar." 
 
 And now, having won the world unto Zerdusht, the 
 young crusader again returned unto his father. But alas! 
 one who hated Isfendiyar because of his valor and tri- 
 umphs had succeeded in poisoning the mind of Gushtasp 
 against his son, telling him that Isfendiyar, being ambitious, 
 was plotting the overthrow of his father. So it came to 
 pass that when the Hero presented himself before his sire, 
 Gushtasp greeted him not, but, turning unto his courtiers, 
 said: 
 
 "O Nobles of Iran! What think you should be done 
 with that son who in the lifetime of his father usurps his 
 authority and meditates his death?" 
 
 Then with one accord the nobles answered, saying: "O 
 Lord of the World, 
 
 "Such a son should either be 
 Broken on the felon-tree, 
 Or in prison bound with chains, 
 Whilst his wicked life remains, 
 Else thyself, thy kingdom, all 
 Will be ruined by his thrall." 
 
 Alas! when Gushtasp heard the words of his nobles, 
 quickly he turned him unto his guards, saying:
 
 326 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 "Verily, Isfendiyar is such a son. Bind him, therefore, 
 and let him be buried from my sight in the deepest dungeon 
 of the palace." 
 
 So, in spite of the remonstrances and pleadings of many 
 who loved and grieved for the injustice done unto their 
 Prince, behold, he was imprisoned in a dreary dungeon, 
 where chains of weight were hung upon him. Yea, and 
 thus was he shut away from the glad sunshine of the world 
 for many long years. And alas! the iron entered into his 
 soul as well as into his body, for he remembered that, 
 though innocent himself, his father had done unto Lohu- 
 rasp, his sire, even as he had accused him; yet was he free 
 and exalted. 
 
 But retribution was at hand. For, when Arjasp, the 
 demon king, learned that Isfendiyar was fettered, and that 
 Gushtasp was given over unto pleasure, behold, he gath- 
 ered together a great army, and in a moment when he 
 knew the kingdom to be unguarded, and unprepared for 
 resistance, suddenly he fell upon Iran's capital, putting to 
 death Lohurasp, the aged Shah, and taking captive the two 
 fair daughters of Gushtasp. Yea, and he also threw fire 
 into the temple of Zerdusht, causing much destruction and 
 loss of life. 
 
 Now at this time Gushtasp was at Seistan, enjoying a 
 hunting trip with Rustem; and thither hastened a messen- 
 ger to inform the Shah of the great disaster that had be- 
 fallen. So quickly Gushtasp called together his army, put- 
 ting himself at its head, but in the first engagement Arjasp 
 routed him utterly. Overwhelmed with dismay, therefore, 
 the Shah quickly called together his counsellors, for he 
 knew not what to do in the sore straits so suddenly come 
 upon him. But neither did his nobles, and for a time their
 
 ISFENDIYAR'S SEVEN LABORS 327 
 
 hearts were filled with despair. Then one, wise above the 
 others, said: 
 
 " O King of Kings! Verily, Isfendiyar alone can deliver 
 Iran from the woe which threateneth. I counsel thee, 
 therefore, release him, for he alone can conquer this 
 Demon King." 
 
 Then Gushtasp, remembering how the Prince had con- 
 quered Arjasp before, took heart, saying: 
 
 "Verily, if Isfendiyar shall succeed in delivering us from 
 this foe, then I call ye all to witness that my oath is given 
 to abandon unto him the throne and crown." 
 
 So right speedily the Shah sent messengers unto Isfendi- 
 yar, that they should unbind his chains, and with them he 
 sent a letter, begging forgiveness for his cruelty, and prom- 
 ising that his enemies should be put to death in his pres- 
 ence; yea, and that surely the crown should be his when 
 he again overcame Arjasp. 
 
 But too long had Isfendiyar languished in prison to be 
 easily moved by his father's tardy, though opportune, 
 repentance. So he said: 
 
 "Wherefore should I weary myself in my father's cause? 
 Verily, I might have rotted in my prison, forgotten of my 
 sire, had not his enemies forced him to remember that 
 perchance the valiant Isfendiyar yet lived." 
 
 Then the nobles, seeing that appeal on his father's 
 account was useless, said unto him: 
 
 "Verily, O Prince, thy father hath treated thee ill, but 
 perhaps thou knowest not that thy two fair sisters are in 
 bonds unto Arjasp ? Surely it behooveth thee to deliver 
 them from their living death!" 
 
 Now when Isfendiyar heard this dire news, at once 
 he sprang to his feet, commanding that his chains be
 
 328 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 struck from off his limbs, and as the men were slow, be- 
 hold, he stretched himself mightily, thus bursting his 
 chains so that they fell clanking at his feet. Then he made 
 haste to go before his father, for he thirsted to be revenged 
 for the indignity done unto his sisters. 
 
 So, peace being made between Isfendiyar and hie sire, 
 soon there rallied about the Prince a great multitude that 
 tarried not, but went forth like a mighty whirlwind. And 
 behold ! so great was their force and fury that naught could 
 stand before them; nay, not even the great Arjasp, who 
 fled before the face of Isfendiyar in terror of his life. For 
 never had he seen such fury in battle, though he had fought 
 with many heroes. 
 
 And behold! the enemy being once more vanquished, 
 Isfendiyar returned unto his father, craving the fulfilment 
 of his vow. But Gushtasp, when he beheld himself freed 
 from danger, repented him of his promise, for he had no 
 desire to give the reins of government unto another. There- 
 fore he spake angrily unto Isfendiyar, saying: 
 
 "Verily, my son, I marvel that while thy sisters languish 
 in the bondage of Arjasp thou canst consider thyself vic- 
 torious! Now it hath been revealed unto me that they are 
 hidden in Arj asp's brazen fortress, and that the great chief 
 and all his demon warriors are gone in behind its walls. 
 I say unto thee, therefore, storm this terrible fortress and 
 deliver thy sisters who pine. Then, when thou returnest 
 them safe unto my arms, by Ormuzd the Blessed, I swear 
 that thy name shall be exalted as Shah throughout the land. 
 
 "'Then go!' the smiling monarch said, 
 Invoking blessings on his head, 
 'And may kind Heaven thy refuge be, 
 Leading thee on to victory.' "
 
 ISFENDIYAR'S SEVEN LABORS 329 
 
 Now as Isfendiyar knew not the way unto the retreat of 
 AT j asp, behold, he called before him Karugsar, a demon 
 champion whom he had conquered and still held captive, 
 saying unto him: 
 
 "O Mighty One, reveal unto me, I pray thee, the road 
 unto the Brazen Fortress, for behold! we go forth pres- 
 ently to conquer the kingdom of Arjasp, and to restore my 
 fair sisters unto liberty." 
 
 Then Karugsar, surprised that any hero should think of 
 entering upon so hazardous an enterprise, replied unto 
 Isfendiyar : 
 
 "O Hero of Heroes! Behold, there are three different 
 routes which lead unto the fortress of brass. One there is 
 that occupieth three months, the way leading through 
 a beautiful country, adorned with cities and gardens and 
 pastures; a second, less attractive, but perfectly safe, em- 
 ploying only two months; and a third, by which the jour- 
 ney may be accomplished in seven days called on this 
 account the Heft-Khan, or seven stages. But, mark you, 
 my Lord! at every stage upon this route some monster 
 or terrible difficulty must be overcome. Yea; and so 
 truly fearful is it that no monarch, even supported 
 by a large army, hath ever yet ventured to proceed by 
 this route, for assuredly any one attempting it would be 
 lost." 
 
 Alas! at this description of the terrors of the Heft-Khan, 
 Isfendiyar became thoughtful, but he said : 
 
 "Verily, no man can die before his time, and I have 
 heard it said that a man of valor should ever choose the 
 shortest' route; therefore, we go by way of the Heft- 
 Khan." 
 
 So spake brave Isfendiyar and having selected a force of
 
 330 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 twelve thousand chosen horsemen, together with an 
 abundance of treasure, behold, he set forth upon the peril- 
 ous way. 
 
 Now the first day passed without danger, and almost 
 Isfendiyar thought that his guide had deceived him as to the 
 perils of the way. But as evening fell, behold, the retinue 
 came unto a forest and a murmuring stream, when sud- 
 denly two enormous wolves appeared and charged the le- 
 gions of Isfendiyar. But soon they were laid low, for, seeing 
 them advance, the whole host poured forth upon them 
 showers of arrows from their bows. And while Isfendiyar 
 attacked one of them, Bashutan, his brother, fell upon the 
 other, so that, what with the arrows and the vigorous 
 attack of the heroes, in a few seconds the two great mon- 
 sters lay lifeless in the dust. 
 
 So, the first stage of the journey successfully passed, 
 blithely Isfendiyar entered upon the second. But again 
 the party travelled peacefully all day, their progress re- 
 maining undisputed until toward sunset, when a lion and 
 a lioness stalked boldly forth, snarling and angry. Now 
 Bashutan would have divided the labor, even as with the 
 wolves, but Isfendiyar, seeing how ferocious were the 
 beasts, preferred to attack them alone. 
 
 Hesitating not, therefore, the hero first sallied forth 
 against the lion, and so watchful and dexterous was he, 
 that with one mighty stroke he put an end to his life. And 
 this done, behold, he approached the lioness, who pounced 
 upon him with great fury because of her mate, and almost 
 you would have said that Isfendiyar's hour was come. 
 But though sore pressed, the hero lost not his coolness, 
 holding his own against the furious beast until an opening 
 was given him, when, rapidly wielding his sword, in a mo-
 
 ISFENDIYAR'S SEVEN LABORS 331 
 
 ment the head of the great lioness went bounding o'er the 
 plain like a ball shot from a racket, and her life of hunting 
 was ended, even as that of her mate. 
 
 But alas! though two stages of the great Heft-Khan 
 were thus successfully passed, Karugsar informed Isfen- 
 diyar that upon the following day he would be called upon 
 to encounter a monstrous dragon, whose roar made the very 
 mountains tremble, and whose hideous jaws shot forth 
 poisonous foam. So, thus warned, after some thinking, 
 Isfendiyar ordered to be constructed a curious apparatus 
 on wheels. Now the hero's invention was something like 
 a carriage, unto which were fastened a large quantity 
 of pointed instruments sharp as razors. And to this ma- 
 chine of death horses were fastened to drag it on the 
 road. 
 
 So the next day the retinue again set forth, and after 
 they had gone some distance Karugsar suddenly exclaimed : 
 
 "Surely I smell the stench of the dragon, for nothing 
 else could so pollute the air!" 
 
 Now hearing this, Isfendiyar dismounted hastily from 
 his charger, ascended into the new machine, and, shutting 
 fast the doors, took his seat and drove off. But alas! when 
 Bashutan and all the warriors saw the intention of the hero, 
 lo, they began to lament and weep, begging him to come 
 out of the machine, and not to rush upon certain death. 
 But Isfendiyar bade them be of good cheer, and, taking up 
 the reins, he drove forward with great velocity until he was 
 come in the vicinity of the awful beast. Then alas! 
 
 "The dragon from a distance heard 
 
 The rumbling of the wain, 
 And sniffing every breeze that stirred 
 Across the neighboring plain,
 
 332 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Smelt something human in his power, 
 A welcome scent to him; 
 
 For he was eager to devour 
 Hot, reeking blood or limb. 
 
 And darkness now is spread around, 
 No pathway can be traced; 
 
 The fiery horses plunge and bound 
 Amid the dismal waste. 
 
 And now the dragon stretches far 
 His cavern throat, and soon 
 
 Licks in the horses and the car, 
 And tries to gulp them down. 
 
 But sword and javelin, sharp and keen, 
 Wound deep each sinewy jaw; 
 
 Midway remains the huge machine, 
 And chokes the monster's maw. 
 
 In agony he breathes, a dire 
 Convulsion fires his blood, 
 
 And struggling, ready to expire, 
 Ejects a poison-flood! 
 
 And then disgorges wain and steed, 
 And swords and javelins bright; 
 
 Then, as the dreadful dragon bleeds, 
 Up starts the warrior-knight, 
 
 And from his place of ambush leaps, 
 And brandishing his blade, 
 
 The weapon in the brain he steeps, 
 And splits the monster's head. 
 
 But the foul venom issuing thence, 
 Is so o'erpowering found, 
 
 Isfendiyar, deprived of sense, 
 Falls staggering to the ground!"
 
 ISFENDIYAR'S SEVEN LABORS 333 
 
 Howbeit, though o'ercome by the horrible stench, Isfen- 
 diyar was soon upon his feet asking Karugsar as to his 
 next adventure, and being informed that upon the following 
 day he would be called upon to combat the powers of 
 magic, he was no whit dismayed. Nay; on the contrary, 
 he set out upon the fourth stage of the Heft-Khan with 
 increased confidence, feeling himself under the protection 
 of the Almighty. 
 
 And behold! upon this day his trial was delayed not 
 long, for in the early morning, as the party refreshed them- 
 selves in a pleasant meadow, a beautiful enchantress ap- 
 peared, representing herself as a king's daughter in great 
 distress on account of a hideous ghoul who had stolen her 
 from her home and now held her in bondage. Now Isfen- 
 diyar feigned sympathy, but when the wicked one drew 
 near, before she could weave her spells about him, lo, the 
 hero threw his cord, quickly snaring her in its meshes. 
 Nor was she permitted to escape, although in her extrem- 
 ity the fair one successively assumed the shape of a cat, 
 a wolf, and a decrepit old man, for, vexed at her efforts to 
 cheat him, the Hero soon made an end of her with his 
 sword. 
 
 But behold! no sooner had this happened than a thick, 
 dark cloud of vapor arose, and when it subsided, lo, there 
 burst forth the black apparition of a demon with flames 
 issuing from his mouth. Now the ghoul was indeed fright- 
 ful, but, nevertheless, Isfendiyar rushed bravely forward, 
 sword in hand, and, though the flames burnt his cloth 
 armor and dress, finally, after a terrible fight, he succeeded 
 in cutting off the threatening monster's head. Then the 
 hero said unto Karugsar: 
 
 "Lo! by the favor of Heaven, both enchantress and
 
 334 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 ghoul are exterminated, as well as the wolves, the lions, and 
 the dragon. Now what awaiteth me next?" 
 
 Then Karugsar, who had been truly amazed at the 
 valor of Isfendiyar, said: 
 
 " O Matchless One, truly thy success hath been marvel- 
 lous, but to-morrow thou wilt be subjected to a test never 
 before experienced by mortal man, for thy antagonist will 
 be a mighty Simurgh. Now if thou overcomest this giant 
 bird, fierce because of her young, thou wilt have performed 
 a feat not dreamed of by even Rustem the Mighty, and thy 
 name will go ringing down the ages as the hero who con- 
 quered a Simurgh. But alas! much I fear that the fifth 
 stage of the Heft-Khan will be thy last." 
 
 But, undismayed, Isfendiyar continued his journey, 
 coming presently unto the mountain where the Simurgh 
 had builded her nest. And here a curious thing hap- 
 pened, for the giant bird, beholding with surprise an im- 
 mense vehicle drawn by two horses approach at a furious 
 rate, immediately descended from the mountain, and en- 
 deavored to take up the whole apparatus in her claws to 
 carry it unto her nest. But alas! the swords and javelins 
 cruelly lacerated both claws and beak, so that after a time 
 the great bird became extremely weakened by the loss of 
 blood. Then Isfendiyar, seizing this favorable moment, 
 sprang out of the carriage, and with his sword cleft the 
 mighty bird in twain. Now never had the Hero beheld a 
 Simurgh, and much he marvelled at the colossal size and 
 wondrous beauty of the giant Bird of God. 
 
 Tarrying not, however, the retinue moved rapidly for- 
 ward, for Karugsar informed them that upon the sixth 
 stage their fight would be with the elements, and they 
 hoped to reach, by hard travel, a place of shelter. And
 
 ISFENDIYAR'S SEVEN LABORS 335 
 
 fortunate was their haste, for as they arrived upon the 
 skirts of a mountain there suddenly swept down upon them 
 a furious storm of wind and heavy snow which covered all 
 the ground; yea, and biting cold, which almost froze the 
 heroes where they stood. Now to escape the wrath of the 
 elements, Isfendiyar and his men took shelter in a huge 
 cavern, and there three lingering days they spent, while 
 the snow still fell, and 'still the chill winds blew, and 
 man and beast grew faint for want of food. 
 
 Then, in their desperation and anguish of suffering, 
 Isfendiyar and his warriors, with heads exposed, prostrated 
 themselves in solemn prayer unto the Almighty. And 
 verily Heaven was kind, for soon the snow and mighty 
 wind entirely ceased, enabling the heroes to leave the caves 
 of the mountain safe and unharmed. But when asked of 
 the final stage of the Heft-Khan, Karugsar said: 
 
 "Alas, O Valorous One! Forty farsangs yet lie be- 
 tween thee and the Brazen Fortress, and every inch of the 
 road is full of peril. 
 
 "Along those plains of burning sand, 
 
 No bird can move, nor ant, nor fly; 
 No water slakes the fiery land, 
 Intensely glows the flaming sky. 
 
 No tiger fierce, nor lion ever 
 
 Could breathe that pestilential air; 
 Even the unsparing vulture never 
 
 Ventures on blood-stained pinions there." 
 
 Now though the picture thus painted was dark, Isfen- 
 diyar determined to press forward. And lo! when they 
 were come unto the place said to be covered with burning 
 sand, they found the ground cool and pleasant unto their
 
 336 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 feet, for the storm in its fury had lessened the burning heat, 
 making the last stage of the Heft-Khan the easiest of all. 
 
 But though the Heft-Khan was now accomplished, 
 there remained yet to be taken the Brazen Fortress. And 
 as no accessible point of attack could be discovered, Isfen- 
 diyar quickly transformed his warlike cavalcade into a 
 caravan of peaceful merchantmen, thus gaining admission 
 into the fort. And being generous of heart, he arranged to 
 give a great banquet unto Arjasp and the demon chiefs, 
 feasting them right merrily. Then, when no man was 
 master of his fate save Isfendiyar alone, suddenly the Per- 
 sians fell upon the Deevs, completely annihilating them. 
 
 And now, this glorious victory achieved, Isfendiyar 
 made haste to return unto Iran, taking with him his sisters 
 and much treasure. And lo! the mouths of all men over- 
 flowed with praise for the brave young hero of the Heft- 
 Khan who once more had saved Iran from her foes.
 
 THE COMBAT OF ISFENDIYAR 
 AGAINST RUSTEM 
 
 BEHOLD! it is recorded that Gushtasp the Shah, 
 after the return of his glorious son Isfendiyar 
 from the triumphs of his great Heft-Khan, instead 
 Jfai resigning unto him the throne, as he had sworn to do, 
 at once sent him forth upon a new adventure, which was 
 nothing less than to slay, or bring unto him in chains, 
 Rustem, the Champion of the World. For he said : 
 
 "Verily, in former days, this Mighty One was obedient 
 unto the Shahs, but now doth he hold himself superior. 
 For did he not decline to come unto my aid against Arjasp?X 
 Go, therefore, and conquer him, be it by strategem or by 
 force, bringing him bound before me. Then shalt thou 
 be Shah of Iran." 
 
 Now Isfendiyar was grieved when he heard these words 
 of his father, and, unchaining the door of his lips, he has- 
 tened to remind his sire of all the hero's glorious deeds. 
 And he said: 
 
 "O my father, I pray thee ask of me anything else 
 than this that I should make war against the King of 
 China, or against any other ruler under the sun; but do 
 not ask me to lay hands upon this grand old champion, 
 who hath been the glory and the defence of Iran for hun- 
 dreds of years. Sooner would I relinquish the glories of 
 
 sovereignty forever." 
 
 337
 
 338 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 But Gushtasp would not give ear unto the words of his 
 son, saying angrily unto him: 
 
 "Verily, thou forgettest that a son oweth ever obedience, 
 without question, unto his father! Go, therefore, and let 
 me not behold thy face until thou presentest this Haughty 
 One before me in chains, for I will that his pride be brought 
 low, that he may recognize that still there is a Shah in 
 Iran." 
 
 Then Isfendiyar, perceiving his father's intention, said 
 unto him coldly: 
 
 "Alas, my father! now truly I perceive that thou send- 
 est me forth in guile. For well thou knowest that no 
 champion in all these long years hath ever been able to 
 stand before the might of Rustem, and so thou thinkest 
 thus to rid thyself of Isfendiyar, and the necessity of 
 abandoning unto him the throne. I say unto thee, 
 therefore, that Isfendiyar desireth it no longer. Never- 
 theless, since he is thy slave, he will go forth at thy bid- 
 ding, and if peradventure he falleth, then truly wilt thou 
 be the murderer of thy son, and his blood will be upon 
 thy head." 
 
 So, though against the wishes of his mother, Isfendiyar 
 placed himself at the head of a mighty host and set forth 
 upon his disagreeable errand. But behold! when they 
 had gone but a little way, the camel upon which the Hero 
 was seated laid him down in the dust, refusing to rise from 
 the ground, though the driver struck him many times. 
 Now as this was regarded by all as an evil omen, lo! the 
 head of the beast was cut off that the evil might fall upon 
 it and not upon his rider. Nevertheless, Isfendiyar was 
 troubled at this misfortune, pondering what the sign 
 might mean.
 
 ISFENDIYAR AGAINST RUSTEM 339 
 
 Now when the cavalcade drew nigh unto Seistan, Isfen- 
 diyar called unto him Bahman, his son, giving unto him 
 a message to carry unto Rustem. And behold, the mes- 
 sage contained none but kind words, for Isfendiyar hoped 
 that thus all might yet be well. So Bahman sped forth, 
 but when he was come unto the courts of Rustem he found 
 only Zal within, for the great Pehliva was absent with his 
 followers upon a hunting trip. Now the aged Prince 
 would have entertained the youth until his son's return, 
 but Bahman declared the need of haste, so without tarry- 
 ing he set forth for Rustem's camp. 
 
 And behold! after a long day's travel, the youth arrived 
 at the halting-place of the hunters of Seistan. Now it was 
 evening as he drew nigh, and at once he perceived about 
 the blazing fire a man, like unto a mountain, roasting a 
 wild ass for his supper. Yea, and about him were many 
 brave heroes all gaily preparing their evening meal. But 
 lo! as he gazed, what was Bahman's astonishment to be- 
 hold that Rustem, of himself, devoured the whole of a wild 
 ass for his meal; nor did this wondrous feat appear to be 
 anything out of the ordinary. 
 
 Then was the youth filled with consternation, for he 
 thought as he gazed upon Rustem, who seemed unto him 
 as a huge mountain of might, that not even Isfendiyar, his 
 gallant father, could stand before such an elephant of war. 
 So, in his fear, Bahman hastily loosened a large rock from 
 the mountain-side and sent it rolling unto the place where 
 Rustem sat, hoping thus to save his father from harm. 
 
 But Rustem, when warned by his followers as to the 
 speeding rock, smiled, and rising leisurely, with his foot 
 he sent it spinning far out upon the plain. Then was 
 Bahman still more amazed, and also affrighted, so that for
 
 340 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 long he dared not come forth from his hiding-place. Yet 
 when his courage finally allowed him to present himself 
 before the Pehliva, Rustem welcomed him warmly. And 
 as he entertained his guest, behold, again he ate as though 
 his day's fast had but now been broken, and once more 
 Bahman marvelled at the might and majesty of the great 
 hero of Seistan. But, the meal being ended, the youth 
 delivered at once his father's message. Then was Rustem 
 filled with wrath and amazement, yet restrained he his 
 anger, replying courteously unto Bahman: 
 
 "O Noble Youth! I pray thee bear greeting unto Isfen- 
 diyar, thy gallant sire, whose glory hath added such lustre 
 unto the crown of Iran, and say unto him that Rustem re- 
 joiceth that at last he is to behold his face. But as for his 
 demand, surely it is the device of the Evil One, and can in 
 nowise come to pass, for no man shall ever behold Rustem 
 in chains. Wherefore, say unto thy glorious sire that the 
 Pehliva of Seistan beg him to honor their house as his 
 guest, and when we shall have feasted together, then will 
 I go forth unto Gushtasp. And his anger, which is unjust, 
 will vanish like unto the morning mist, and all will again 
 be well. 
 
 So Bahman sped back unto his father, and Rustem fol- 
 lowed after to present, in person, his homage unto the 
 Prince. And behold! when he was come near unto the 
 royal camp, the Pehliva dismounted from Rakush, going 
 forward upon foot to pay his respects unto Isfendiyar. 
 For he wished to pay honor unto him, not only as his 
 Prince, but also as the brave hero of the Heft-Khan. 
 Now when the two had embraced, Rustem said: 
 
 "O Valorous Prince, whose wondrous deeds have filled 
 the world with glory, behold, I have a boon to ask at thy
 
 ISFENDIYAR AGAINST RUSTEM 341 
 
 hands, for I desire that thou enter into my house as my 
 honored guest." 
 
 But Isfendiyar, whose eyes could not cease from gazing 
 upon the mighty form of Rustem, nevertheless replied unto 
 him: 
 
 " O Champion of the World! Unfortunately my errand 
 forbiddeth me to eat of thy bread and salt, otherwise 
 my soul would joy in thy hospitality. And alas! though 
 it is grievous unto me, yet must I be faithful unto my 
 mission." 
 
 Then Rustem replied unto Isfendiyar, speaking still 
 more earnestly, and he said: 
 
 "Yet again, O brave Isfendiyar, do I entreat thee to 
 enter into my house in friendship. Then will I do all that 
 thou desirest, except only that I cannot submit unto the 
 chains, for that would be neither fitting nor right as thou 
 well knowest." 
 
 Now unto this Isfendiyar replied: 
 
 "Alas! not only can I not feast with thee, O Mighty 
 One, but, furthermore, if thou wilt not hearken unto my 
 demands, then must I fall upon thee in enmity. But, as 
 my soul goeth out to thee on account of thy deeds of valor, 
 to-day let there be peace between us, and do thou feast 
 with me in my tent." 
 
 So Rustem, hoping that thus unpleasantness might yet 
 be avoided, replied: 
 
 "Gracious Prince, gladly will I come unto thee, but 
 first must I change my robes, for, as thou seest, I am attired 
 for the chase, and not as is fitting unto the guest of a Prince. 
 When thy banquet is ready, therefore, send forth a mes- 
 senger, and I will come unto thee with joy." 
 
 But behold! when Rustem was gone, Isfendiyar pon-
 
 342 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 dered over that which was come to pass, and his heart was 
 full of care. So he said unto his brother: 
 
 "Verily, since the sword must decide our strife, not 
 only have I no place in the house of Rustem, but neither is 
 it fitting that he should enter into mine. Wherefore, I shall 
 not send for him to come unto my feast!" 
 
 But Bashutan, shaking his head sadly, replied unto 
 Isfendiyar: 
 
 "O my brother, truly it seemeth unto me a pity that 
 heroes like unto Rustem and Isfendiyar should meet in 
 enmity. I counsel thee, therefore, to disregard the unjust 
 demands of our father, for much I fear that he seeketh but 
 to ensnare thee." 
 
 Then Isfendiyar was thoughtful, but finally he said: 
 
 "Truly I am not deceived as to the desires of Gushtasp, 
 but if I obey not my father it will be a reproach unto me 
 in this world, and in the next I shall have to render account 
 for it before God, my Maker for so teacheth Zerdusht 
 the Holy One." 
 
 So, though Isfendiyar prepared him a feast, when it was 
 ready he sent not to summon his guest. And behold! 
 when Rustem had waited long, he was angry because the 
 messenger came not. Nevertheless, he tarried not at home, 
 but hastened unto the tent of Isfendiyar to see what had 
 befallen. 
 
 Now when the warriors of the Prince beheld Rustem 
 draw near, lo, they gazed in open-eyed admiration, saying 
 among themselves: 
 
 "Saw you ever such limbs, and such a chest on mor- 
 tal man? Surely Gushtasp is bereft of reason, or never 
 would he send Isfendiyar thus unto his death. But alas ! 
 the old Shah huggeth his throne and his treasure ever
 
 ISFENDIYAR AGAINST RUSTEM 343 
 
 closer as age creepeth on, caring naught for the welfare 
 of Iran." 
 
 But, all unconscious of the admiration and fear he was 
 exciting, Rustem, hot and angry, presented himself before 
 the Prince, saying: 
 
 " O Young Man, thou mayest be a hero, but certainly 
 thou seemest not to be acquainted with the laws of courtesy 
 due unto an invited guest, since thou deemest him not 
 worthy of a messenger. But perhaps thou knowest not 
 that it is Rustem whom thou treatest thus disdainfully ? 
 Rustem, whose glorious deeds have made the throne of 
 Iran to shine as a beacon light unto all the world!" 
 
 Now Isfendiyar, abashed at the anger of the Great Peh- 
 liva, excused himself for his breach of courtesy, saying: 
 
 "O Mighty One, verily I had thought to save thee the 
 long, hot journey hither; but since thou art come, pray 
 enter, and let us drink a cup of wine together." 
 
 Now, thus speaking, behold! Isfendiyar offered unto 
 Rustem a place at his left hand, smiling courteously: 
 
 But Rustem, advancing proudly, said quietly unto 
 Isfendiyar: 
 
 "Not at thy left, O Prince, for never yet hath Rustem 
 sat save at the right hand of the Shahs of Iran." 
 
 Thus spake Rustem, and behold! so majestic was the 
 mien of the old Hero, as he thus calmly asserted his rights, 
 that at once a chair of gold was brought and placed at 
 Isfendiyar's right hand. But, though outwardly calm, the 
 heart of Rustem burned at the dishonor done unto him, 
 and even the wine soothed not his ruffled spirit. Yea, and 
 the unfavorable impression made by the Prince was fur- 
 ther increased by his words. For, after drinking for a 
 few minutes in silence, he said:
 
 344 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 " So thou hast ever sat at the right hand of Kings, Old 
 Warrior! Strange! for surely it hath been said unto me 
 that Rustem is sprung of evil stock. Now, truly, is not 
 Zal, thy father, of demon extraction? And was he not 
 reared by a vile bird that gave unto him garbage for nour- 
 ishment? So, at least, it hath been reported unto me." 
 
 Alas! this was an insult too biting for Rustem to bear 
 with any degree of patience, so, frowning angrily, he said: 
 
 "Thou and I, O Prince, can boast of the same origin, as 
 thou well knowest, since we are both descended from 
 Husheng the Shah. Why, then, use such injurious lan- 
 guage ? Yea, and would it not, perhaps, be becoming for 
 Isfendiyar to remember that but for the honor and fidelity 
 of Rustem and his house unto the Shahs, Isfendiyar of the 
 Heft-Khan would not be numbered among the heroes of 
 Iran? But, after all, what hath he done ? Why! he hath 
 slain Arjasp, one puny King, while over against that is the 
 long record of Rustem's glorious deeds, which need not to 
 be recounted." 
 
 Now Rustem's vehemence and the disdainful tone of his 
 voice made it hard for Isfendiyar to remember the cour- 
 tesy due unto a guest, but, restraining his anger, he said 
 softly unto him: 
 
 " O Modest One! Why dost thou raise thy voice so high 
 and speak so loftily? For, after all, thou wert, and art 
 still, but the slave of the Shah, dependent for thy very 
 breath upon his clemency. And after all, what were thy 
 seven boasted labors to my terrible Heft-Khan ? And who, 
 I ask you, by the power of his sword diffused the bless- 
 ings of the faith of Zerdusht throughout the world ? Verily, 
 Rustem hath performed the duties of a warrior and a ser- 
 vant, but Isfendiyar the holy functions of a sovereign and
 
 ISFENDIYAR AGAINST RUSTEM 345 
 
 a prophet. But now have we boasted enough, for behold, 
 the day is almost ended and I am hungry. Let us eat 
 and drink, therefore, for to-morrow will we meet in enmity 
 upon the field of battle." 
 
 So a great banquet was spread, and the two heroes sat 
 down to feast, Rustem astonishing Isfendiyar greatly, for 
 never had the Prince dreamed that mortal man could eat 
 and drink so much, and he wondered not now that Rus- 
 tem' s might was reckoned equal to that of a hundred strong 
 men. When the time of departure was come, however, 
 once more Rustem begged Isfendiyar to be his guest on 
 the morrow, but again the Prince refused. Then the Hero 
 knew that words were idle, and he was sorrowful in his 
 soul, for within himself he said: 
 
 "Truly the Evil One is in this whole affair, and no good 
 can come of it. Now if I suffer these chains, men will 
 mock that Rustem permitted a boy to bind him, and the 
 dishonor of it can never be wiped out. Yet if I slay this 
 stripling on the morrow, the glory of a lifetime will be tar- 
 nished, for men will say that in his last days Rustem 
 lifted up his hand against one of the royal house." 
 
 Nevertheless, concealing his sorrow and dismay, he 
 replied gaily unto Isfendiyar, saying: 
 
 "So be it then, O Stubborn One! to-morrow will we 
 meet in conflict, since naught else will content thee. And 
 behold! when I shall have lifted thee lightly from off thy 
 saddle, straight will I convey thee unto Silver-crowned 
 Zal, who shall place thee upon the ivory throne, while 
 upon thy head a crown of gold shall glitter. Yea, and 
 when that we have feasted, right loyally our troops shall 
 fight for thee as King, and we will serve thee faithfully as 
 thy Pehliva forever and a day."
 
 346 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 But Isfendiyar, thinking that Rustem mocked, said 
 angrily : 
 
 "Old Man! Verily thou hadst best save thy breath for 
 combat, since to-morrow, by the aid of Zerdusht, will I 
 make the world dark unto thine eyes." 
 
 Then Rustem, laughing, said : 
 
 "O Foolish Youth, when Rustem wieldeth his mace, 
 behold, the world trembleth, and the head of his enemy 
 falls. Consider, therefore, thy course." 
 
 Now when he had thus spoken, Rustem rode forth from 
 out the tents of Isfendiyar, and though his lips smiled, his 
 heart was heavy with foreboding. Nevertheless, when he 
 was come unto his palace, he commanded that his armor 
 and implements of war be brought before him. Then, as 
 he gazed upon them, sighing, he said: 
 
 "O my raiment of battle, verily thou hast rested long, 
 yet once again must I don thee for combat. And alas! 
 I greatly fear me that it is for my last fight." 
 
 But behold! when sunshine once more flooded the 
 world, then the Pehliva threw off his sadness, for he re- 
 solved once more to speak persuasive words unto the 
 Prince. So, having received his father's blessing, he 
 armed himself for battle, and rode forth unto the^ents of 
 Isfendiyar, and lo! when he was come near, he shouted 
 gaily: 
 
 "Ho, Brave Isfendiyar! Why sleepest thou when the 
 hero with whom thou wouldst try thy strength hath come 
 forth to meet thee?" 
 
 Now Isfendiyar, at this call, quickly issued from his 
 tent, and, leaping upon his charger, rode like the wind unto 
 his waiting antagonist. So the two met, the old warrior 
 and the young, and truly they were a doughty pair. But
 
 ISFENDIYAR AGAINST RUSTEM 347 
 
 Rustem's efforts at persuasion were vain, for Isfendiyar 
 would hear of naught but battle. 
 
 So, after the useless controversy, behold, the Champions 
 began their combat. Now they began the fight with their 
 spears, but as the contest lasted for long hours, they tested 
 their strength and skill successively with their swords, clubs, 
 and lassos; but still the end came not. For, though they 
 fought until both they and their horses were worn out with 
 weariness, neither could prevail. So they stopped them 
 awhile to rest. 
 
 But behold! as they rested, Bahman, the son of Isfen- 
 diyar, rushed up to his father, informing him that Rustem's 
 lieutenants had provoked a battle between the two armies, 
 and that as a consequence two valiant youths, sons of 
 Isfendiyar, were slain, and the Shah's troops put to rout 
 with great slaughter. Then was Isfendiyar transported 
 with rage. Calling aloud unto Rustem, therefore, he said: 
 
 " Ho, Old Man! Dost thou hear this ? Thy chiefs have 
 fallen upon my troops, killing my two brave sons. Verily, 
 I had thought such treachery beneath the Mighty Rus- 
 tem." 
 
 Now when Rustem heard these words, behold, he 
 trembled like a leaf. But he said : 
 
 "O Isfendiyar, I swear unto thee by the head of the 
 King, by the sun, and by my conquering sword, that no 
 part have I had in this matter. Yea, and to prove it unto 
 thee, I swear that whoever hath been in fault, even though 
 it be my dearest, lo, he shall be bound hand and foot and 
 given over unto thee for vengeance." 
 
 But, unplacated, the Prince cried angrily unto Rustem: 
 
 "Verily, O Treacherous One, thy words have a pleas- 
 ant sound, but I say unto thee, it is idle to kill the snake
 
 348 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 that the peacock's death may be avenged. Thine own 
 blood, therefore, shall pay for that of my sons, for verily 
 my arrows shall make the world dark unto thine eyes." 
 
 Now thus saying, Isfendiyar seized his bow, and whiz! 
 whiz! went a shower of arrows through the air, fastening 
 themselves in the body of Rustem and Rakush, his steed. 
 Yea, twice thirty arrows were there in all, and not one of 
 them was there that did not wound the Hero or his horse, 
 while Rustem's missiles fell harmless upon Isfendiyar, 
 because that Zerdusht had charmed his body against all 
 danger so that it was like unto brass. 
 
 Then Rustem, seeing that Rakush was like to perish of 
 his wounds, and feeling also his own strength going from 
 loss of blood, cried unto Isfendiyar: 
 
 "Behold, night is at hand, O Angry One, and since even 
 heroes cannot combat in the darkness, go thy way, and we 
 will meet again in the morning." 
 
 But Isfendiyar, seeing that Rustem staggered in his 
 saddle, said: 
 
 " Old Man, think not to escape me thus, for yet there is 
 light enough to finish our combat." 
 
 But Rustem replied unto the Eager One: 
 
 "Not so, O Isfendiyar! Farewell, therefore, until 
 morning." 
 
 Now so saying, quickly Rustem turned him and swam 
 across the stream. And behold! Isfendiyar was amazed, 
 for he knew that both steed and rider were sore wounded. 
 Then, standing upon the bank, with his lips he reviled the 
 fleeing Herb, but lo ! in his heart he was filled with admi- 
 ration and wonder at his prowess. 
 
 And now, Rustem having escaped him, sorrowfully 
 Isfendiyar returned unto his tent, where he mourned over
 
 Isfendiyar seized his bow, and whiz! whiz! went a shower of arrows.
 
 ISFENDIYAR AGAINST RUSTEM 349 
 
 the bodies of his two sons. But when the night was far 
 spent, lo, he placed them on biers of ebony, in coffins of 
 gold, and sent them unto the Shah with this message: 
 
 "O King of Evil Devices! Behold, I am sending unto 
 thee the first fruits of thy seeds of guile. Isfendiyar is yet 
 alive, but Heaven alone knoweth what may befall to- 
 morrow." 
 
 Then the Prince said unto his brother: 
 
 "O Bashutan, my brother! Verily this Rustem is not 
 mortal. For neither with my sword nor javelin could I do 
 harm unto his body formed of rock and iron. But, thanks 
 unto Zerdusht, the charmed arrows have done their work, 
 and it will indeed be wonderful if the Mighty One liveth 
 throughout the night." 
 
 Meanwhile, when the wounded Hero, of whom Isfendiyar 
 spoke thus feelingly, was come into the presence of Zal and 
 Rudabeh, behold, they rent the air with their cries of woe; 
 for never yet had Rustem returned unto them vanquished; 
 neither had any man e'er done such harm unto his body. 
 Now they cried out sore in their distress, and Rustem, too, 
 lamented, for the pain of his wounds was great. Pres- 
 ently, however, seeing that the case of his son was indeed 
 serious, Zal bethought him of a remedy. So he said: 
 
 "O my glorious son, mourn not so bitterly, for yet 
 there is hope for thee, since in this, our extremity, once 
 more I shall call unto our aid the Wondrous Bird of God." 
 
 So at once Zal went forth unto a high mountain, taking 
 with him three golden censers filled with fire, and as many 
 mighty magicians, who caused the fires to glow brighter 
 and ever brighter. Andlo! at the end of the first watch of 
 the night, Silver-crowned Zal dropped into the brightly 
 glowing fire the glorious golden feather of the Simurgh.
 
 350 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Then instantly a mighty stir of wings filled all the air, and 
 the Wondrous Bird of God dropped down beside her child, 
 listening sympathetically unto his plaint. And, the story 
 being told, the Simurgh said: 
 
 "Let the Mighty Rustem and his glorious steed be 
 brought unto me, for lo! there is healing in my wings." 
 
 So quickly the magicians hastened back unto the pal- 
 ace, and though Rustem and Rakush had scarcely strength 
 to move, yet went they unto the mountain with all the 
 speed they could, pausing not until they were come into 
 the presence of the Bird of God. 
 
 And now the glorious Simurgh, swiftly passing her 
 golden beak over the body of the wounded Hero, drew 
 thence four wicked arrow-heads. Then caressing the 
 wounds softly and lightly with her fluffy wings, lo, in a 
 moment, Rustem felt all his strength return. Yea, and 
 Rakush, too, rejoiced, neighing, and tossing his mighty 
 head for gladness when that the six charmed arrow-heads 
 troubled his peace no more; and then, the work of healing 
 done, the Simurgh said unto Rustem: 
 
 "Alas, O Son of Zal! Wherefore hast thou entered upon 
 combat with the son of the Shah, and the beloved of Zer- 
 dusht? For verily it can bring thee naught but woe; and 
 there is little that even I can do to aid thee. For never 
 hath there appeared in the world so brave and so perfect 
 a hero as Isfendiyar. Yea, and the favor of Heaven is 
 with him also, for in his great Heft-Khan, by some clever 
 artifice, he succeeded in killing a Simurgh, and the farther 
 thou art removed from his invincible arm, therefore, the 
 greater will be thy safety. For alas! in the Book of Fate 
 it is written that whosoever sheddeth the blood of Isfen- 
 diyar, he also shall perish miserably, never again knowing
 
 ISFENDIYAR AGAINST RUSTEM 351 
 
 joy in this life, and also suffering pangs in the life to come. 
 But if this fate dismay thee not, come forth with me, and 
 I will reveal unto thee a way to lay thine enemy low if the 
 stars decree that his hour is come." 
 
 So, wishing not to face defeat, Rustem mounted into the 
 golden chariot of which he had heard so oft from his 
 father, and the Simurgh bare him far, far away, even unto 
 the shores of a mighty sea. Now there she put the Hero 
 down softly in a garden wherein grew a tamarisk-tree, 
 whose roots we^Srf^e^gjround, but whose branches 
 pierced unto heaven. Then the Simurgh said: 
 
 "O Glorious Son of Zal, I pray thee choose from this 
 tree the longest, straightest and finest branch' that ttfou 
 canst find, for to this tamarisk^betigh is bound the fate of 
 Isfendiyar. Yea, and after thou hast secured jt^jnake it 
 yet straighter before the firfe, search out a well-tempered 
 arrow-head, feather it well, and if Isfendiyar's hour is 
 come, this is the weapon which, when directed unto his 
 forehead, will cause him to perish, for only through his eye 
 can this hero be wounded, since Zerdusht hath made the 
 rest of his body invulnerable. But yet once more I counsel 
 thee, bring this matter to a good end, for so shalt thou 
 escape much sorrow." 
 
 Now having thus spoken, behold, the Simurgh carried 
 Rustem safely back unto the palace of Zal, bidding him 
 be of good cheer. After her departure, however, the Hero 
 hastened to carry out her commands as to the fashioning 
 of the fateful arrow. 
 
 But behold! when morning was come, Rustem mounted 
 upon fiery Rakush, and rode serenely forth unto the camp 
 of Isfendiyar. And lo! his antagonist yet slumbered, for 
 he thought of a surety that Rustem must have perished
 
 352 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 from his wounds during the night. So, beholding that 
 Isfendiyar yet slept, Rustem, lifting up his voice of thun- 
 der, cried: 
 
 "Ho, Brave Crocodile of War! Is it a time to slumber 
 when thou hast challenged a hero to combat? Get thee 
 up, for verily Rustem is not accustomed thus to be kept 
 waiting." 
 
 Now when Isfendiyar, thus awakened, beheld that it 
 was really Rustem who awaited him without the tent, he 
 was amazed. But quickly donning his armor, and mount- 
 ing his horse, he soon appeared in the presence of Rus- 
 tem, saying unto him: 
 
 "O Elephant-limbed Warrior! Yesterday thou wert 
 wounded almost unto death by my arrows, and to-day 
 there is no trace of them either upon thee or thy steed. 
 Pray how is this ? 
 
 "But, then, thy father, Zal, is a sorcerer, 
 
 And he by charm and spell 
 Hath cured all the wounds of the warrior, 
 
 And now he is safe and well. 
 For the wounds I gave could never be 
 Closed up except by sorcery. 
 Yea, the wounds I gave thee in. every part 
 Could never be cured but by magic art." 
 
 Then Rustem, replying unto Isfendiyar, said: 
 "O Royal Archer! Know that if thou wert to shoot at 
 me a thousand arrows, they would all drop harmless unto 
 the ground. Therefore, let us be friends, and not only 
 shalt thou be placed upon the throne, but all the treasure 
 of the house of Zal shall be thine." 
 
 But Isfendiyar replied impatiently unto Rustem: 
 "Brave Prater! Wilt thou never cease from thy idle
 
 ISFENDIYAR AGAINST RUSTEM 353 
 
 talk ? Now once for all I say unto thee that never will I 
 forsake the paths of God by disobeying my father. Choose, 
 therefore, between chains and battle." 
 
 Then Rustem, seeing that his submission was not 
 accepted, though he had offered to sacrifice much, bent his 
 bow, and laid the arrow of tamarisk in rest, and so held it 
 while he prayed unto God. And lo! the Prince, noting 
 that the Hero delayed, thought that he did so from fear, 
 and he taunted him. Then Rustem, hesitating no longer, 
 let his arrow fly toward his enemy, and behold! it sped 
 straight unto its mark, piercing the eye of Isfendiyar, so 
 that the bow dropped from his hand, and he clutched at 
 his horse's mane. Yea, 
 
 "And darkness overspread his sight, 
 The world to him was hid in night; 
 The bow dropped from his slackened hand, 
 And down he sank upon the sand." 
 
 Now long Isfendiyar swooned, and his kinsmen and 
 chiefs, beholding what had befallen, rent the air with their 
 woe. But the Prince, when he revived, said unto them 
 calmly: 
 
 "O Heroes of Iran, trouble not yourselves on account 
 of my death, for it is not Rustem who hath slain me, nor 
 the Simurgh, nor yet the magic arrow, but my father, who 
 knowingly sent me forth unto my death, and verily the 
 curse of the Great Prophet shall fall upon his head. As 
 for thee, O Rustem, being but the instrument of fate, thou 
 art guiltless in this matter, and that thou mayest know 
 how I honor thee, I desire that thou take unto thee Bah- 
 man, my son, and rear him for Iran, even as thou didst 
 noble Siawush, for lot it hath been revealed unto me that
 
 354 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 Bahman will sit upon the throne that hath been denied 
 unto me." 
 
 Alas! having thus spoken, behold, Isfendiyar sighed, 
 and the sun of his life was set, and great was the lamenta- 
 tion for the brave young hero lost unto Iran. As for Rus- 
 tem, sorrowfully he made ready for Isfendiyar a coffin of 
 gold, causing it to be lined with silken stuffs and perfumed 
 with amber. Then he laid therein the valiant hero-prince 
 of the Heft-Khan, and all beholding him wept with bitter 
 sorrow. Tenderly then the coffin of gold was placed upon 
 the back of a slow-moving dromedary, forty others follow- 
 ing in its wake. And lo! there followed after them the 
 brave army of the Prince, clad in robes of mourning, while 
 Bashutan marched at the head of the sorrowful train, 
 leading Isfendiyar's horse, whose saddle was reversed and 
 whose mane and tail were shorn, while from its sides hung 
 the armor of the vanquished one. Now thus it was that 
 they brought brave Isfendiyar back unto the palace of his 
 fathers, and behold ! all the world mourned this great loss 
 unto Iran. 
 
 But while Iran sorrowed for Isfendiyar, behold, Bah- 
 man grew up in the courts of Rustem, the Pehliva loving 
 him as a son. For in his heart he grieved bitterly that by 
 his hand brave Isfendiyar had fallen. Yea, and he gloried 
 not in his last great fight, even though he knew that now 
 his star would shine on undimmed unto the end, and that 
 the children of Ormuzd would sing his praises through all 
 the ages as the one greaLunconquered hero of the Persians.
 
 THE DEATH OF RUSTEM 
 
 E! it is chronicled by Firdusi, who, in his great epic 
 poem, hath made immortal the heroes and kings of 
 Persia, that Zal in his old age had born unto him 
 a son of remarkable beauty. But alas ! when the astrologers 
 cast the horoscope of this beautiful babe, they read therein 
 that few and evil would be the days of Shughad; that he 
 would be the ruin of the house of his fathers, also bringing 
 destruction upon the land of Iran. 
 
 Now Zal was overwhelmed with dismay when this mes- 
 sage of the stars was communicated unto him, and he 
 prayed continually unto Ormuzd that he would avert this 
 terrible fate from the head of his boy. Yea, and he reared 
 him carefully, sparing no pains to inculcate in the youth 
 the principles of truth, honor, loyalty unto his house and 
 unto the King. 
 
 Then, when Shughad was come unto man's estate, Zal 
 sent him unto the King of Kabul, who, when he saw that 
 he was tall and handsome, and fit in every way to sit upon 
 the throne, showed unto him great kindness, even giving 
 unto him his daughter in marriage, and providing for him 
 bountifully. 
 
 Now the King of Kabul paid tribute unto Rustem, 
 every year being required to send unto the Hero of Seistan 
 a bull's hide as a token of sovereignty. And alas! this was 
 a great grievance unto his soul, for he was proud in his 
 spirit and desired to be bondsman unto none. So it was 
 355
 
 356 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 not alone kindness which prompted him to take Shughad 
 unto him as his son, for in his heart he hoped thus to have 
 the tribute remitted. 
 
 But behold! when the proper time came, Rustem sent 
 his messenger as usual to demand the bull's hide, which 
 made the King very angry. So, in his disappointment, he 
 hesitated not to express his opinion of Rustem' s conduct 
 unto Shughad, stirring up his mind against his brother. 
 Then Shughad, becoming angry and discontented also, 
 said unto the King: 
 
 "Verily, since my elder brother hath behaved unto me 
 thus unkindly, in my heart he shall be unto me no more 
 than a stranger. Let us consider, therefore, how we may 
 ensnare him." 
 
 So all night the King and Shughad talked and pondered 
 how they might rid the world of Rustem, and at last they 
 decided upon a scheme. 
 
 Consequently, it came to pass that presently the King of 
 Kabul gave a great feast, and when all had become excited 
 with wine, behold, Shughad, the son of Zal, began to 
 boast of his lineage, saying: 
 
 " Verily, Shughad alone of all this great company should 
 be toasted! Yea, and I except not even the King, our 
 host! For is not the Mighty Rustem my brother? And 
 do I not come from a long line of heroes, extending from 
 Husheng the Shah even unto Zal of the white hair?" 
 
 Now hearing this, lo, the King sprang up in pretended 
 wrath, saying: 
 
 "Upstart! Thinkest thou to lord it over me, the King 
 of Kabul? Verily, nay! For thou art really no brother 
 unto Rustem, since thy mother was but a slave in thy 
 father's household. Therefore, boast not so loudly."
 
 THE DEATH OF RUSTEM 357 
 
 Then Shughad, feigning great anger, hastily left the 
 banqueting-halls, threatening to call forth Rustem to 
 avenge the insulting words of the King. So, with guile in 
 his heart, the Prince rode forth unto the palace of his 
 brother. And behold! after they had exchanged greetings, 
 Rustem said: 
 
 "And how fares it with thee at Kabul, O my brother? 
 Art thou still happy and contented in the King's palace?" 
 
 Then Shughad, rejoicing at the opening thus given him, 
 said: 
 
 "I pray thee do not speak unto me of Kabul, for the 
 word is hateful unto mine ears. For verily this night hath 
 the King insulted me beyond bearing. Yea, and thee, too, 
 and my father! So I came away in a rage, and never will 
 I return until the vile words which he spake of my family 
 are avenged." 
 
 Now when Rustem learned what had been spoken by the 
 King of Kabul, he said unto Shughad : 
 
 "O my brother, trouble not thyself concerning this 
 matter, for verily it shall bring thee naught but gain. 
 Alas! ever hath the King of Kabul been vain and arrogant 
 of spirit, but for this he shall be humbled unto the dust, 
 for no longer shall he reign in Kabul, since his crown shall 
 henceforth grace thine own fair brow." 
 
 So, at once Rustem set forth to avenge the wrongs of his 
 brother, but lo ! when they were yet far from Kabul, they 
 were met by the King, who, bowing himself low in the dust, 
 said unto Rustem: 
 
 "O Lord of the World! Thou beholdest before thee, 
 with uncovered head and bare feet, the proud King of 
 Kabul. Pardon, therefore thou who art gracious as the 
 River Nile the foolish words of thy slave, spoken when
 
 358 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 his head was troubled with wine. For lo! his mouth is 
 filled with dust and his soul with sorrow and repentance." 
 
 Now hearing these words of humility, Rustem's anger 
 was appeased. Granting unto the King forgiveness, there- 
 fore, he graciously consented to be his guest. So a great 
 banquet was made ready to celebrate the reconciliation, 
 and as they feasted the King lauded his wondrous hunting- 
 grounds, wherein the deer and the wild ass furnished such 
 excellent sport, and he invited Rustem to hunt therein for 
 a day before returning unto Seistan. 
 
 So Rustem, who loved the chase almost as well as the 
 field of battle, consented to remain the King's guest for 
 yet another day, for he suspected not that poison lurked in 
 the honey of the monarch's words. But alas! in a certain 
 part of these beautiful hunting-grounds, the schemers had 
 caused to be dug treacherous pits, lined thickly with 
 swords and lances and hunting-spears, yet no man would 
 have suspected their existence, so cleverly were they 
 covered over. 
 
 On the following day, therefore, the King directed the 
 hunt unto the place in the forest where the pits were hidden. 
 And behold! Shughad ran beside the horse of Rustem to 
 show unto him the path. But when they were come unto 
 the place of peril, Rakush, smelling the newly-turned 
 earth, reared high in the air, refusing to advance. Then 
 Rustem, thinking he was afraid, commanded him to go 
 forward; but Rakush, backing, refused to give ear unto 
 his master's voice. Now this made Rustem angry so that 
 lightly he struck him with his whip, though never before 
 in all their long wanderings together had he done so. Then, 
 alas! surprised and maddened by the stroke, Rakush sprang 
 forward, but only to fall into one of the treacherous pits.
 
 THE DEATH OF RUSTEM 359 
 
 Now sinking into the midst of this cruel bed of pointed 
 weapons, many a ghastly stab and many a cut in limb and 
 body received Rustem and his gallant steed. Yet from 
 this awful grave, at one prodigious spring, Rakush escaped 
 with his master still upon his back. But alas! what availed 
 that mighty effort ? For, down again into another pit, yet 
 deeper, both fell together. And though again they rose, 
 and yet again, it was only to be engulfed once more, and 
 yet again. Yea, seven times down prostrate, seven times 
 bruised and maimed, did Rakush struggle on, until mount- 
 ing up the edge of the seventh pit, all covered with deep 
 wounds, both horse and rider lay exhausted, Rustem 
 swooning in his agony. 
 
 But when once more the mighty Hero opened his horror- 
 stricken eyes upon the world, lo, he beheld Shughad his 
 brother, smiling in triumph at his side. Then knew he 
 unto whom he owed this infamous treachery, and he said: 
 
 u Thou Wicked One! Is it possible that thou, the son 
 of Zal, hast contrived and wrought this evil deed against 
 thy brother ? Verily thy heart is as black as thy shadow, 
 which shall not long darken the earth." 
 
 Then the treacherous Shughad, trying to justify his cruel 
 deed, said sternly unto the dying Hero: 
 
 "Verily, God hath decreed this awful vengeance to 
 recompense thee for all the blood that thou hast shed in 
 thy long life as a warrior. Not I, but He, hath determined 
 thy fate." 
 
 Now at this moment the King of Kabul drew near, 
 feigning great anger and sorrow when he beheld the dying 
 one. And he wailed: 
 
 "Alas the day! That the Mighty Rustem should perish 
 so ignobly, and as my guest! Quick, bring the matchless
 
 360 PERSIAN HERO TALES 
 
 balm for Rustem's cure, for the great Champion of Iran 
 must not be allowed to die a death so wretched!" 
 
 But Rustem, smiling scornfully, said unto the treach- 
 erous King: 
 
 " O Man of Wile! Right well thou knowest that Death, 
 that cometh unto all men in their turn, is the only physi- 
 cian that now can heal the great Rustem of his wounds. 
 But why should the mighty son of Zal complain of Fate ? 
 For verily, many a mighty King hath died and left me still 
 triumphant, still in power unconquerable. And behold! 
 yet there liveth valiant Feramurz, who will be revenged 
 upon thee for his father's death." 
 
 And now the Mighty Rustem sighed, saying unto 
 Shughad in a weak and mournful voice : 
 
 "Verily, my spirit will soon be free! But alas! it griev- 
 eth me sore that my faithful body may this night be food 
 unto the wolves and lions. String, therefore, my bow, and 
 place it in my hands that I may appear unto the wild 
 beasts that would devour me, even as a live warrior, ready 
 to defend his life. For our father's sake, O Shughad, 
 refuse not thy brother this last request." 
 
 So, suspecting naught, Shughad drew the great bow 
 from its case, and placed it in Rustem's hands, smiling 
 with satisfaction to think that his brother's end was so 
 nigh. But verily he smiled not but a moment, for noting 
 the strength with which Rustem gripped his bow, and the 
 peculiar look of his eye, shuddering with terror, quickly 
 Shughad dodged behind a plane-tree close at hand. But 
 useless was the shelter, for though the dimness of death 
 was come over the eyes of the Hero, he yet spied Shughad 
 where he hid, and whiz! went an arrow, straight through 
 the tree and the wicked Shughad, transfixing them to-
 
 THE DEATH OF RUSTEM 361 
 
 gether. And Rustem, when he saw the fate of his brother, 
 was content, knowing that he could do no more harm unto 
 his house. 
 
 But alas! of all that mighty hunting-party not a knightly 
 follower escaped. For Zuara and all the others perished 
 in the treacherous pits of the traitor King, save only one, 
 who quickly fled with the dire news unto Seistan. 
 
 Then Zal, in agony, tore his white hair and rent his 
 garments, lamenting bitterly for Rustem, crying again 
 and again: 
 
 "Why was I not present, fighting at his side? Why 
 could I not die for him ? Wherefore, alas, am I left alone 
 to mourn his memory?" 
 
 But behold! though bowed to the earth with grief, 
 quickly the white-haired old warrior sent Feramurz forth 
 with a great army to avenge the death of his father. And 
 verily the work of the Hero was complete. For not only 
 did he make of Kabul a desert, but he laid low the head of 
 the treacherous King and all his race. Then the work of 
 vengeance finished, lo, he sought out the body of Rustem, 
 and of Rakush his gallant steed, and bare them back in 
 sorrow unto Seistan, where they were placed in a noble 
 tomb. 
 
 And alas! never was there such wailing in the land of 
 Iran as for Rustem the Mighty. Nay, not even for the 
 glorious Shahs of Old! And well might it be so, for never 
 again did Persia rejoice in such an unbroken line of heroes, 
 and never did she achieve such telling victories, for with 
 Rustem her glory departed; yea, for many long years!
 
 The Boy's Hakluyt 
 
 New Edition of English Voyages of Adventure and 
 Discovery 
 
 By E. M. Bacon 
 
 Illustrated, fi.jo net 
 
 "There is more adventure in this volume than 
 will be found in a whole library of fiction." 
 
 New York Sun. 
 
 " Here in one stout volume is the rich account 
 of real pirates, and galleons that actually swam 
 the seas, and adventurers who genuinely swigged 
 and swaggered, suffered and sang." Chicago Post. 
 
 "Nothing in fictitious tales of an olden time can 
 surpass the reality ; and Hawkins, Drake, and Gil- 
 bert are heroes with whose careers every boy should 
 be familiar." Providence Journal. 
 
 " The story of these voyages of adventure is a 
 story of pluck, daring, courage, and genuine hero- 
 ism."^. Paul Dispatch. 
 
 " Thrilling tales of adventure. The book is ad- 
 mirably illustrated." The Outlook. 
 
 CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS
 
 The Boy's Catlin 
 
 My Life Among the Indians 
 
 By George Catlin 
 
 Edited and arranged for boy. with Biographical Introduction, by 
 Mary Gay Humphrey* 
 
 With if) illustrations from Catlin's drawings 
 $1.50 net 
 
 The most interesting parts of Catlin's famous book 
 about the North American Indians and their history 
 and habits and customs in war, peace, and hunting, 
 arranged for boys and superbly illustrated from 
 reproductions of the author's drawings. George 
 Catlin, the Indian painter, lived among the Indians 
 and studied them at close range, and his story of 
 the dangers and hardships of the war-path, the 
 hunting and trapping, and life in the villages when 
 they were at peace with their neighbors, and the 
 illustrations cannot fail to interest the American 
 boy who is fond of healthy out-door sports and 
 adventures. The book is edited and arranged for 
 boys by Mary Gay Humphreys. 
 
 CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS
 
 jclOS-ANK 
 
 UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY 
 
 Los Angeles 
 This book is DUE on the last date stamped below. 
 
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