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Houman in Disguise Questions Rostam

Houman in Disguise Questions Rostam

From B14.3, Houman Bears the Khan’s Message. It illustrates B14.3.7–18 (to B14.3.20):

  • B14.3.7
    As swift as wind he entered in his tent,And changed his helmet, on his purpose bent.
  • B14.3.8
    New standard, horse, and jowshan changed his guise;A different shield completed the disguise.
  • B14.3.9
    He neared and scanned that hero’s neck and frame,Then spoke with reverence and careful aim:
  • B14.3.10
    “Renowned one, master of the kamand’s might,By God, I would yield both crown and throne outright,
  • B14.3.11
    If I have seen your equal in the fray;No chief in this great army fights your way.
  • B14.3.12
    A warrior who seeks so fierce a fightMakes dust rise from a lion’s heart in fright.
  • B14.3.13
    With such a lion’s courage, why restrainYourself? You hold this battle in disdain.
  • B14.3.14
    Among Iran’s warriors I have seenNo man but you so dauntless in his mien.
  • B14.3.15
    Tell me your lineage, your native land,Your parentage and name at my demand.
  • B14.3.16
    I cherish warriors when their spirits rise,With leopard fierceness blazing in their eyes.
  • B14.3.17
    So tell me now your name, your land, your line,And ease the trouble of this heart of mine.”
  • B14.3.18
    The Pahlevan replied, “Your words revealA friendly heart beneath this courteous appeal.

In the picture

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