Page:Persian Literature (1900), vol. 1.djvu/370

 enjoyed. When he came under the tree, a terrible sound arose and rung in his ears, and he asked the people present what it meant. The attendant priest said it implied that fourteen years of his life still remained. Sikander, at this interpretation of the prophetic sound, wept and the burning tears ran down his cheeks. Again he asked, "Shall I return to Rúm, and see my mother and children before I die?" and the answer was, "Thou wilt die at Kashán.[51]

"Nor mother, nor thy family at home Wilt thou behold again, for thou wilt die,  Closing thy course of glory at Kashán."

Sikander left the place in sorrow, and pursued his way towards Rúm. In his progress he arrived at another city, and the inhabitants gave him the most honorable welcome, representing to him, however, that they were dreadfully afflicted by the presence of two demons or giants, who constantly assailed them in the night, devouring men and goats and whatever came in their way. Sikander asked their names; and they replied, Yájuj and Májuj (Gog and Magog). He immediately ordered a barrier to be erected five hundred yards high, and three hundred yards wide, and when it was finished he went away. The giants, notwithstanding all their efforts, were unable to scale this barrier, and in consequence the inhabitants pursued their occupations without the fear of molestation.

To scenes of noble daring still he turned His ardent spirit--for he knew not fear. Still he led on his legions--and now came To a strange place, where countless numbers met His wondering view--countless inhabitants Crowding the city streets, and neighbouring plains; And in the distance presently he saw A lofty mountain reaching to the stars. Onward proceeding, at its foot he found A guardian-dragon, terrible in form, Ready with open jaws to crush his victim; But unappalled, Sikander him beholding With steady eye, which scorned to turn aside, Sprang forward, and at once the