
Houman in Disguise Questions Rostam
From B14.3, Houman Bears the Khan’s Message. It illustrates B14.3.7–18 (to B14.3.20):
- B14.3.7As swift as wind he entered in his tent,And changed his helmet, on his purpose bent.
- B14.3.8New standard, horse, and jowshan changed his guise;A different shield completed the disguise.
- B14.3.9He 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,
- B14.3.11If I have seen your equal in the fray;No chief in this great army fights your way.
- B14.3.12A warrior who seeks so fierce a fightMakes dust rise from a lion’s heart in fright.
- B14.3.13With such a lion’s courage, why restrainYourself? You hold this battle in disdain.
- B14.3.14Among Iran’s warriors I have seenNo man but you so dauntless in his mien.
- B14.3.15Tell me your lineage, your native land,Your parentage and name at my demand.
- B14.3.16I cherish warriors when their spirits rise,With leopard fierceness blazing in their eyes.
- B14.3.17So tell me now your name, your land, your line,And ease the trouble of this heart of mine.”
- B14.3.18The Pahlevan replied, “Your words revealA friendly heart beneath this courteous appeal.
In the picture
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