
A Noble Speaks of Mehrab's Daughter
From A8.1, Zal Visits Mehrab of Kabul. It illustrates A8.1.24–35 (to A8.1.38):
- A8.1.24When Mehrab rose, Zal watched his noble frame,And spoke before the chiefs in loud acclaim:
- A8.1.25“Who matched his grace when girded for the field?What equal frame has ever armor sealed?
- A8.1.26In look and carriage who could rival him?What warrior stands his equal, life and limb?”
- A8.1.27A noble standing near then raised his voice,And made Zal’s listening heart at once rejoice:
- A8.1.28“My lord, he has a daughter fair of face,A wonder formed of beauty, form, and grace.
- A8.1.29More radiant than sunlight after rain,From head to foot like ivory without stain.
- A8.1.30Her stature is a saj-tree, straight and high,Her face a paradise beneath the sky.
- A8.1.31Two musk-black kamands deck her shoulders white,Their ends like anklet-rings curl close and tight.
- A8.1.32Her mouth a pomegranate blossom’s flame,Her lips the fruit that puts red gems to shame.
- A8.1.33Two pomegranates swell upon her breast,Her narcissus eyes give every heart unrest.
- A8.1.34Her lashes borrow darkness from the night,Her brows are bows drawn firm in perfect height.
- A8.1.35Seek out the moon: it shines upon her face;Seek musk: it breathes from every darkened trace.
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