
Shapur Hauls the Maiden's Bucket
From D7.5, Shapur and the Daughter of Mehrak. It illustrates D7.5.16–25:
- D7.5.16He bade a servant, “Bring the bucket here,And draw cold water from the well’s depths clear.”
- D7.5.17The servant heard and ran to turn the wheel,And let the rope and heavy bucket reel.
- D7.5.18The heavy bucket filled; the rope drew taut;The servant, straining at it, grew distraught.
- D7.5.19Since all his strength could not bring up the weight,Shapur came grumbling at the servant’s state.
- D7.5.20“You half a woman! Did she not commandThis rope and heavy bucket with her hand?
- D7.5.21She drew such quantities, yet now you cryFor help, worn out, and cannot lift it high.”
- D7.5.22He took the rope; what taxed the servant’s mightBecame an easy task, its burden light.
- D7.5.23Discovering the weight the girl had raised,He spoke of her with wonder, and he praised:
- D7.5.24“A maiden who can lift a weight so grandMust come of Kayanian blood within this land.”
- D7.5.25When he had drawn the water for his steed,The maiden came with calm and graceful speed.
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