Three Women on the Road

From E3.2, Caesar’s Locked Casket. It illustrates E3.2.38–49 (to E3.2.52):

E3.2.38
Watch those who pass us on the road today;Ask who they are, and tell me what they say.”
E3.2.39
Bozorgmehr left his house, and soon there cameA woman beautiful in face and frame.
E3.2.40
The watchful friend observed her on the road,And told the sage what signs her presence showed.
E3.2.41
He said, “Go ask this woman passing byIf she is wed, and bring me her reply.”
E3.2.42
“I have a husband,” came her answer clear,“And bear a child within me, hidden here.”
E3.2.43
The sage upon his white horse rode ahead,Reflecting on the words the woman said.
E3.2.44
Another woman passed along the way;His friend approached to hear what she would say:
E3.2.45
“O woman, are you wife and mother too,Or does no child belong at home with you?”
E3.2.46
She said, “I have a husband; I have knownNo child as yet to cherish as my own.”
E3.2.47
A third appeared, with graceful step and face;The friend addressed her with attentive grace.
E3.2.48
“My fair one, are you maiden, or a wife?What household bond attends your present life?”
E3.2.49
She said, “No husband ever came to me;I keep myself apart, a maiden free.”