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 us to try Our power in battle." Then Isfendiyár Dropped Rustem's hand, and spoke, "To-day let wine Inspire our hearts, and on the field to-morrow Be ours the strife, with battle-axe and sword, And my first aim shall be to bind thee fast, And show thee to my troops, Rustem in fetters!" At this the champion smiled, and thus exclaimed, "Where hast thou seen the deeds of warriors brave? Where hast thou heard the clash of mace and sword Wielded by men of valour? I to-morrow Will take thee in my arms, and straight convey thee To Zál, and place thee on the ivory throne, And on thy head a crown of gold shall glitter. The treasury I will open, and our troops Shall fight for thee, and I will gird my loins As they were girt for thy bold ancestors; And when thou art the chosen king, and I Thy warrior-chief, the world will be thy own; No other sovereign need attempt to reign."