Voice of the Kine: Upon this the soul of the kine lamented: “Woe is upon me Since I have obtained for myself in my wounding A lord who is powerless to effect his wish, The voice of a feeble and pusillanimous man; Whereas I desire one who is lord over his will, And able as one of royal state,— Who is able to accomplish what he desires to effect.” Zarathuśtra: “Do ye, O Ahūra, and thou, O Righteousness, Grant gladness unto these: Bestow upon them the peaceful amenities of home And quiet happiness.... Do ye now therefore assign unto us your aid in abundance For our great cause. May we be partakers of the bountiful grace of these your equals, Your counsellors and servants.” Zarathuśtra, having entered upon the duties of his office, composes a liturgy for the benefit of his colleagues, which is given in the second hymn. The doctrine of dualism is next taught. The progress and struggles of the cause are presented. There is a song of thankfulness offered in gratitude for improved fortunes. In the third Gātha, salvation is announced as universal for believers, and also contains the reflections of Zarathuśtra upon the sublimity and bountifulness of Ahūra. There are also personal hopes and appeals. THE LAST GĀTHA. While the matter of this hymn is homogeneous with that of the other Gāthas, it bears some evidence of having been composed in the latter portion of Zarathuśtra’s life. The subject is a marriage song of a political and religious character. The freshness and vigor of the style may indicate Zarathuśtrian influence, if not authorship. The marriage festival of the prophet’s daughter must have been a semi-political occasion, and the author would naturally express himself in reference to the struggle which was still going on. THE MARRIAGE SONG. “That best prayer has been answered, The prayer of Zarathuśtra Spitama That Ahūra Mazda Might grant him those boons Which flow from the Good Order; Even a life that is prospered for eternal duration; And also those who deceived him; May he also grant him, As the good faith’s disciples in word and in deed.” The master of the feast then speaks as follows: “And him will they give thee, Oh Pouroukista, Young as thou art of the daughters of Zarathuśtra, Him will they give thee As a help in the true service Asha and Mazda, As a chief and a guardian. Counsel well then together, And act in just action.” The bride answers: