
Kavus Smells Siavash's Hands
From B9.10, Sudabeh Beguiles Kay Kavus. It illustrates B9.10.34–42:
- B9.10.34The Shah then paused, uncertain what was true,For neither tale alone could guide his view.
- B9.10.35He thought: “There is no place for haste today;Distress of heart makes wisdom sleep away.
- B9.10.36First I must search until my heart is right;A heart made straight will witness to the light.
- B9.10.37I must discover where the guilt may lie,And who deserves the penalty thereby.”
- B9.10.38He sought for proof beyond what speech could tell,And first drew near Siavash’s hand to smell.
- B9.10.39He smelled his breast and arms from side to side,And searched his body for what touch might hide.
- B9.10.40Sudabeh carried wine and musk perfume,And rosewater hung heavy through the room.
- B9.10.41But Siavash bore no scent of musk or wine,Nor of her touch the least betraying sign.
- B9.10.42The Shah grew sorrowful at what he knew,And turned from her in scorn and anguish too.
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