Page:Persian Literature (1900), vol. 1.djvu/336

 thou wert, and still art, but a dependent on the Kais. And was thy Heft-khan equal in terrible danger to mine? Was the capture of Mázinderán equal in valorous exertion to the capture of the Brazen Fortress? And did I not, by the power of my sword, diffuse throughout the world the blessings of my own religion, the faith of the fire-worshipper, which was derived from Heaven itself? Thou hast performed the duties of a warrior and a servant, whilst I have performed the holy functions of a sovereign and a prophet!" Rustem, in reply, said:--

"In thy Heft-khan thou hadst twelve thousand men Completely armed, with ample stores and treasure,  Whilst Rakush and my sword, my conquering sword,  Were all the aid I had, and all I sought,  In that prodigious enterprise of mine.  Two sisters thou released--no arduous task,  Whilst I recovered from the demon's grasp  The mighty Káús, and the monsters slew,  Roaring like thunder in their dismal caves.

"This great exploit my single arm achieved; And when Kai-khosráu gave the regal crown  To Lohurásp, the warriors were incensed,  And deemed Fríburz, Káús's valiant son,  Fittest by birth to rule. My sire and I  Espoused the cause of Lohurásp; else he  Had never sat upon the throne, nor thou  Been here to treat with scorn thy benefactor.  And now Gushtásp, with foul ingratitude,  Would bind me hand and foot! But who on earth  Can do that office? I am not accustomed  To hear harsh terms, and cannot brook their sting,  Therefore desist. Once in Káús's court,  When I was moved to anger, I poured out  Upon him words of bitterest scorn and rage,  And though surrounded by a thousand chiefs,  Not one attempted to repress my fury,  Not one, but all stood silent and amazed."

"Smooth that indignant brow," the prince replied "And measure not my courage nor my strength With that of Káús; had he nerve like mine?  Thou might'st have kept the timorous king in awe,  But I am come myself to fetter thee!" So saying, he the hand of Rustem grasped, And wrung it so intensely, that the champion Felt inwardly surprised, but careless said, "The time is not yet come for u