On the next day when Monzar was seated on the throne of his kingdom, and
the horsemen of his clan were around him, they consulted and deliberated,
and they were unanimous that the Arabs should be written to, and
precautions be taken against Nushirvan. And when they had come to this
resolution, an attendant entered, and kissing the ground, said—O King,
excellent tidings for you in the arrival of your Vizier Amroo, the son of
Neefeela! Now this vizier was one of the oldest men of the age, for he
was four hundred years old; he was well versed in history, and acquainted
with every event, and he was one of the wise men who had predicted the
mission of Mohammed the seal of Prophets and delegates; and he generally
resided at Mecca, expecting his appearance, that he might be directed by
his light.
When Monzar heard of his arrival, he was rejoiced and delighted at the
good news. In a short time he presented himself, and saluted him. Monzar
sprang up to meet him, congratulated him, and saluted him. O Chief, said
he, you are come just at the very moment you are required, for I am
overwhelmed with anxiety; and for its removal I depend first on God, and
then on you. I am quite disconsolate at the state of my affairs, and I
have repented of what I have done, and I wish for you, O Vizier, to bear
some of my burthens.
And when he had informed him of all that had passed between him and
Chosroe—You have indeed acted wrong, O King, said Amroo, in this
business; verily as soon as I heard the news, I came as fast as I could
from the land of Mecca and the sacred shrine, fearful lest your country
should be laid waste, and the Arab chiefs destroyed by the hands of the
worshippers of fire, and you would be thus involved in disgrace and in
misery. Indeed, I have recommended to you a thousand times not to make
the fire-worshippers your enemies, until you should hear that Mecca is
illuminated with the light and appearance of the chosen Prophet to be
sent from Adnan, for then will the temples of fire be extinguished, and
the palace be rent: but now you have only to bend to error, and take care
to obey the orders of this monarch, even should he outrage you. For you
have slain his satrap and cut up his horsemen; so beware of his deceits.
Moderation is now most advisable; renounce writing to the Arabs, but have
patience till I go to Modayin, and observe its inhabitants, and mark the
state of affairs. I will visit their minister, Mubidan, and request him
to give up this point, and direct him to avert from us the ill-will of
Nushirvan.
Your advice is most judicious, said Monzar; act, O Vizier, as it seems
fit to you; I will oppose nothing you say. So Amroo went to repose
himself; and then Monzar reported to him the deeds of Antar, how he had
slain Khosrewan, and destroyed an army of twenty thousand horse, and had
given victory to the Arab warriors after their defeat and flight; the
Vizier was astonished at Antar’s acts, and intrepidity, so superior were
they to any thing hitherto known in deserts or towns.
On the third day the Vizier Amroo mounted his horse and repaired to
Modayin, having first recommended Monzar to treat Antar with attention
and kindness, and to prevent him from returning to his own country. He
traversed the deserts and cultivated places till he reached Modayin,
when he presented himself to Mubidan, the Cazi of the worshippers of
fire, without ceremony and without permission. Mubidan rose up in haste
to meet him, and received him with the highest honour and distinction;
he made him sit by him, and spoke to him in the most friendly manner,
saying,—What has induced you to visit me? What has made you trouble
yourself about me? I was not at hand when these events took place, said
the Vizier, and I was not present at these occurrences; I was at Mecca,
and in those parts; but as soon as the news reached me, and I heard how
King Monzar had eaten the dates with the stones, I was convinced that
troubles would arise between them. I came at full speed, for I feared
some great disaster, and I wished to settle the business ere I died. But
I did not arrive till all was over; so I have hurried to you, in order
to arrange matters, fearing that these human considerations would bring
about unnecessarily disagreeable consequences. Therefore, O Chief, be
benevolent as long as kindness is in your power, and be not revengeful on
account of a difference in religion.
Mubidan was pleased from his heart, and the flame of his anger was
extinguished. O Amroo, said he, before you arrived, I had resolved to
arrange this business: the army has returned routed, and its chief has
been slain; but I have not reported this circumstance to the just King,
fearful that blood would be shed, and men be slaughtered. I have also my
anxiety about events which have lately occurred, and I wish to relieve
the heart of the King of some of his burthens; for governments sicken as
men sicken, and they have no other physician but their Viziers; and these
are acquainted with the evils and the remedies.
What is it, cried Amroo, that has troubled the heart of the just King;
for he is the ruler of all the tribes! You know that the Emperor of
Greece, answered Mubidan, has always been accustomed to send to Chosroe
a vast quantity of goods, and precious stones and metals and jewels,
and male and female European slaves, and other objects, in short, that
the tongue fails in describing. At this present time a Grecian chief is
come with the treasure, and in his suite are five hundred horsemen of
his nation, and ten priests, and five monks; he presented himself before
Chosroe in his palace, and spoke to him by an interpreter saying—O mighty
King, I am indeed come with the wealth and jewels and rich presents, such
as fire cannot consume, and beautiful virgins and slaves; but I must
make one stipulation with you, viz. that I will not deliver them to you,
unless you have a horseman that can vanquish me in the field of battle.
Now the cause of the arrival of this Chief, continued Mubidan, and of
his appearance before Chosroe, was this extraordinary circumstance.—He
had quitted the Isles of the Sea, in order to visit the holy shrine
at Jerusalem, and the fountain of peace; and when his pilgrimage was
terminated, he heard a good report of the cities of Syria, so he
repaired thither, and resided there some time; and one day being in the
presence of Harith, in the course, he exhibited his horsemanship and
intrepidity, far superior to the other horsemen. Harith having remarked
his extraordinary prowess, sent for him and presented him with a robe,
and exalted him in rank above the nobles of his court, accommodated him
in a house suitable to his station, and supplied him with provisions.
And Harith for a long time engaged him against the warriors, and he
overcame every antagonist in force and ability, and in course of time
he conquered all the armies of Syria, who acknowledged his intrepidity
and superiority, and yielded to him the highest honours, so that Harith
greatly rejoiced in him; and he said, this is indeed the sword of Jesus;
and he resolved to present him to the Roman Emperor. So he wrote to the
Emperor, and mentioned what feats this Chief had performed. Keep him with
you, said he in his letter, and prevent his returning to the Isles of the
Sea, in order that you may obtain, through him, what you wish and desire
from the Arabs and the worshippers of fire; and he sent his letter by a
messenger.
On the next day Harith dispatched the Chief with a party of his
attendants to wait on the Emperor. The messenger travelled with the
letter till he reached Antioch, and being admitted to the presence, he
delivered him the letter, which he took and read, and having understood
its secret meaning, was rejoiced in the Chief. He even went out to meet
him with all the nobles of his court, and ministers of the kingdom. So
when the Chief reached the suburbs, he was greatly surprised, as were
all his companions, for he thought this meeting of the Emperor was
accidental, not being aware of the letter Harith had sent forward. The
Chief dismounted and crossing his face before he spoke, kissed the earth
in the presence of the Emperor, who, much surprised at the courtesy
of his manners, desired him to remount his horse, and taking him by
his side, they all returned together to Antioch, every one gazing on
the Chief, and astonished at his gigantic shape and stature, till they
arrived at the city, when all their anxiety and trouble being at an end,
every one returned home. And there being no one present, the Emperor sat
down, and made the Chief do so likewise by his side, and invited him to
tell his adventures, and offered him riches and possessions.
O most beneficent monarch, said the Chief, I left not my country in
search of wealth, but the reason of my departure was to seek the reward
of virtue and meritorious acts, I have reached your presence, and my wish
is to exhibit my prowess before the inhabitants of this land, that I may
attain the object of my desires. The Emperor showed the warrior every
possible attention.
Now the name of this Chief was Badhramoot; he remained three days as the
Emperor’s guest, on the third he appeared on the plain, and the horsemen
came out against him; but they retreated from before him in shame and
disgrace, and he remained galloping about like a dæmon. For three days he
continually exhibited himself on the course, till he had marked all the
troops of the Emperor in the combat; and when the Emperor perceived his
superior skill, he was much surprised, and wished to detain him with him,
that he might, through him, be victorious over his enemies; and amongst
other things he thought of marrying him to his daughter, and of sharing
with him his dominions.
One day Badhramoot came to the Emperor and found him sitting down, and
all his treasures before him; he was selecting the best metals and
jewels, and was putting them in cups, and was sealing them up, and was
packing them up in boxes, and was preparing them for a long journey by
land. Badhramoot was much agitated and surprised at this. To whom do you
intend sending this treasure? he asked. To Chosroe Nushirvan, the lord of
the crown and palace, replied the Emperor, for he is the King of Persia
and Deelem, and the ruler of nations, O monarch, this King, is he not of
the religion of Jesus the son of Mary? the chief asked. He is the great
King, he replied, and he worships fire; and he has armies and allies
whose numbers are incalculable, and on this account I send him tribute,
and keep him away from my own country.
At these words the light became darkness in Badhramoot’s eyes. By your
existence, O King, said he, I cannot allow any one to adore aught but the
Messiah, in this world. We must wage a sacred war, and have a crusade
against the inhabitants of that land and those cities. How can you submit
to this disgrace and indignity, and humble yourself to a worshipper of
fire; you who are the Emperor of the religion of the Cross, and the
Priest’s gown? I swear by him who withdrew a dead body from the earth,
and breathed into clay, and there came forth birds and beasts, I will not
permit you to send these goods and presents, unless I go also against
those people, and fight them with the sword’s edge. I will engage the
armies of Chosroe, and exert my strength against them; if I am slain,
then you may stand to your covenant.
Rid us of this affair, exclaimed the Emperor; avert and withdraw from us
the supremacy of Chosroe and his armies; but do not open upon us a gate
which we shall not be able to close: and if you wish to make a journey
to the land of the King, go with these presents, and when you are in his
presence, tell him your own story—examine the extent of his dominion, and
his horsemen, and the number of his troops, and his allies. Ask him to
let you fight his bold warriors—whatever you desire, he will grant you;
and when you have engaged the horsemen and succeeded in your attempt,
then inform me, that I may shew you what I can do. But if you find that
his power is too great, conjure him to spare this land and realm.
Badhramoot agreed to this proposal, and he departed with the presents,
and he arrived at Modayin, his heart free from fear. He went to Chosroe
and presented his letter, and said through an interpreter, O most
glorious King, you know that Kings will not submit to tribute until they
have been vanquished in battle. I am now come with all this property as
presents to you; but I wish to avert this disgrace from the Christians,
and I will engage your warriors in your presence. If they slay me in the
combat, my blood is rightfully your’s; but if I am superior to all your
heroes and combatants, then relieve us from tribute, and do not expose
mankind to difficulties and hardships, for in all religions it is tyranny
and oppression to shed blood.
All this being interpreted to Chosroe, his anger and indignation, though
considerably excited, were softened by the mildness of the Chieftain’s
representations. He pondered the subject some time, and then, being
convinced that he had only made a reasonable demand, he turned towards
his satraps and said—Take this Chieftain, and conduct him to a mansion
suitable to his rank, with his suite, and provide them with every thing
to eat and drink, that we may comply with his requests; let the property
be left with him, that we may likewise fulfil his intention: to-morrow we
will go to the plain to view the combat of the horsemen, and we will not
receive the presents but on your terms.
Accordingly the satraps conducted the Chief and his suite to a spacious
mansion, and left all the property with them. The next day the armies
mounted and repaired to the plain, and all being assembled, Chosroe
mounted his horse, surrounded by the standards and ensigns; and when the
two parties were drawn up, the Chief came forward like a huge camel, his
priests and monks attending him; he urged on his horse into the field of
contention, and the brave heroes were rushing upon him from all sides;
but Chosroe issued orders to his people that they should draw lots, and
thus proceed in rotation against him, and whoever should conquer him
should receive all the presents he brought with him.
When the combatants heard this, they retired from the scene of combat
and drew lots, and the lot fell upon the first of the generals named
Shirkan, son of Tirkan. He sallied out against the Chief; but the Grecian
warrior waiting till he came close to him, drew his foot out of his
stirrup, struck him on the breast with his foot, and hurled him on the
ground. The whole body of horsemen were confounded, and their limbs
trembled within them. Again they drew lots, and the lot fell upon a
sturdy warrior, one of the worshippers of fire: he fought with various
arms, and he was indefatigable in the combat: he rushed at him armed
with a mace, roaring like a lion; he opened wide his arm as he came near
to him, and endeavoured to strike him and knock him down; but the Chief
struck him with the but-end of his spear, and dashed him to the earth;
he had already drawn out the barb from his spear; and there was not a
combatant that came forward but he stretched him on the ground: and
before the close of the day he had vanquished a hundred valiant warriors.
Then Chosroe sent for him, and received him kindly, and gave him a robe.
By the burning of fire and its flames, said he, you have earned all this
property from these vile miscreants.
Chosroe then returned, and he was greatly enraged with his own troops;
but the Chieftain was rejoiced, and he reposed that night in security.
The next day he returned to the contest, and Nushirvan also mounted his
horse, and the combat was the same as the first day; and the Grecian
quitted not the scene of action till he had overcome more than a hundred
warriors, many with their ribs broken, suffering the pangs of death and
perdition. And Chosroe was exceedingly wrath with his troops.
Thus continued the Chief to engage the heroes of Persia for fifteen days,
and he excelled them all; and the armies of Chosroe were disgraced.
In affliction he passed the night, and he rose up to grief and gloom.
Matters were in this situation, when lo! Mubidan entered. O Vizier, cried
Chosroe, watch over us in this important affair; behold what is befalling
us with respect to this experienced Greek, for verily, he will tear our
empire in pieces with his intrepidity; and we are unable to rid ourselves
of his power. I wish to write to Khosrewan, to come to us with his
horsemen against this Grecian devil.
Refrain from such expressions, O King, said Mubidan, for you may still
accomplish your wish, and degrade and hold in contempt this Chieftain,
and the affair terminate to your glory and success. How can that be?
said the King, and what do you propose? My opinion is, said he, that you
write to your Lieutenant, King Monzar, the ruler of the Arabs, under
whose command are all the tribes, and order him to send you a few of
his slaves, and they will subjugate for you this obstinate Chief, and
will accomplish what you covet and desire; for the Arab horsemen are the
horsemen of victory and conquest; they only are brought up in plains and
rocks, in battle and slaughter; in such emergencies the horsemen of Hijaz
are most renowned; but our horsemen, O King of the world, are only famed
for magnificent entertainments.
The King laughed, and said—How can this be brought about, Mubidan? Monzar
is irritated against us by what has happened between me and him, owing
to the satrap Khosrewan, who is now gone against him with his troops and
forces, and I have no intelligence of him. Live for ever, O King of the
world, said Mubidan; but for your Satrap, the fire has received his soul,
and its smoke and its flames have consumed him. His army is returning
routed and beaten. I have kept this circumstance a secret from you, but
now the fire has made me think it proper to disclose it to you.
O Vizier, said Chosroe, greatly distressed—In this extremity, what is
your plan; how can I possibly send to Monzar, now that he has rent in
pieces my honour, and slain a satrap of my government?
O King, said the Vizier, the honor of your Empire is in his hands—he
alone can save it; for he possesses a warrior of the race of Adnan, who
would encounter every horseman and hero you possess. Then informing
him of all that concerned Antar from beginning to end—It would, in my
opinion, be right, added he, to send to King Monzar a robe and presents,
and direct him to produce before you this lion horseman, for he will
surely destroy yon Chief, and will remove this distress and affliction
from your heart. But, said Chosroe, I fear Monzar will not obey my
orders, and he will suppose that dismay has stricken us.
Be assured, O great King, said Mubidan, that Monzar is terrified at your
wrath and your vengeance, and just now his Vizier Amroo, the son of
Nefeelah, came to me, and asked me to intercede with you, and request
you would pass over what he has done, and forgive his improper conduct.
Well, said Chosroe, do what you think proper; perhaps the difficulty may
be removed. Order this horseman into our presence, and promise him on our
part all manner of riches. So Mubidan departed, and having acquainted the
Vizier Amroo with what had occurred on this important point, he desired
him to write to Monzar, and tell him what had passed, ordering him to
bring Antar into the presence of the King at Modayin.
The Vizier wrote the letter, as follows—“To him whom we acknowledge as
King Monzar, King of the Arabs, Ruler of the tribes Lakhm and Juzam
and Shiban! Know, O King, that the business on which I came has been
effected, and all your projects are accomplished. Moreover, I have
promised Chosroe, the monarch of the world, that Antar shall overcome
this Grecian Chief, and shall relieve his heart from his present distress
and affliction; come therefore hither without delay, and be there no
other answer to this letter but placing your foot in the stirrup.”—He
folded and sealed the letter, and dispatched it under the wings of a
bird, and they remained expecting the result. But the Chief, as soon
as the day dawned, sent some of his people and horsemen to demand of
Chosroe permission to go out to the plain that he might again engage in
his presence his armies and his warriors. So Chosroe mounted, and all his
people and horsemen also came forth: and the Greek overpowered the heroes
of Persia, who combatted with him even to the close of the day, when they
returned; and the glory and honour of the Persians were tarnished.
The next day the two parties mounted and were drawn up in order; and the
Grecian fought, and galloped, and charged, and sought for the combatants
and antagonists, when lo! a horseman from Deelem, Bahram by name, the son
of Johram, engaged him, and he was a warrior rapid as a burning flame,
and he fought with different sorts of arms, indefatigable in war. He was
the son of the uncle of that Khosrewan whom Antar had slain, Antar, the
destroyer of horsemen! On that day he fought on the plain, and he wore a
Davidean cuirass, solid and firm, that blunted the javelin’s point, and
in his hand he bore a pike with which he gave the blow of death. He was
also girt with a cleaving faulchion, and under his thighs were four short
javelins. He assaulted the Chief with all his force, and engaged with him
in the combat.
Their engagement at first was sport and play, but it ended in impetuosity
and fury. They continued their labours and exertions till mid-day, and
the Greek having experienced Bahram’s might and strength, at length put
forth all his powers and energies in the contest; and the pike of the
Chief was without a barb, as he had agreed on in the presence of Chosroe
Nushirvan. But he stretched his hand over the pommel of his saddle, and
plucked out a barb like the tongue of a serpent and fastened it on the
end of his pike, and rushed upon Bahram in his rage; he extended the
barb towards his chest, and he gave a loud shout; but Bahram struck
it with his sword and clipped it off. The Greek threw away his pike,
and drew forth his sword from the scabbard, and they engaged with their
sabres till both were near partaking of the draught of death. Then the
ranks closed upon them, and the Deelemites rejoiced in their warrior, and
their expectations were raised high. The warriors ceased not the battle
and the contest till the end of the day, when they separated unhurt; and
neither had marked his adversary. So they retired, and each related to
his companions the circumstances of the conflict. Chosroe sent for Bahram
and gave him a robe.
Early next day Chosroe mounted, attended by the Persians, and Turcomans,
and Deelemites, drawn up in ranks on the plain of battle. The Grecian
Chief came with all his suite, and charged and galloped over the plain.
Bahram came down upon him, and they dashed at each other and charged to
and fro, and ranged over the plain, extending their long spears till
every eye was sickened: then they commenced the battle, and continued
till sunset, when they again separated unhurt. But Chosroe was greatly
distressed, and he ordered the Magi to make a circuit of the fire in his
presence, and to throw aloe of Comorin into it, praising the unity of
the adored King: so they did as he ordered. And the Chief performed the
same ceremony, and his priests and monks recited the Gospel, and marked
themselves with the Cross, and both parties reposed in blasphemy and
heresy.
The next day at dawn the horsemen were ready for the contest, when lo!
a dust arose and obscured the land; and there appeared coming forth a
hundred horsemen, all sturdy Arabs, armed with long spears and sharp
swords, mounted on noble coursers. King Monzar headed them, and by his
side was Antar. The Vizier and Mubidan went out to meet them with a party
of satraps and horsemen, and the troops on all sides crowded to look at
them. Mubidan related to Antar all that had passed between the Grecian
and Bahrain.
O Vizier, said the lion Antar, assure the just King, whose beneficence
and liberality are well known, that I will encounter this Grecian, and
Bahram, and all the warriors of Persia, Turkistan and Deelem, and will
not leave a man in Modayin. Mubidan smiled, for he was convinced he could
execute what he said, observing the immensity of his bulk, and the horror
of his form, and the rolling of his eyes, and the muscular powers of his
arms.
O Horseman of the age, said he, should you not execute your engagement,
and not slay this hero of the Cross?—If I do not fulfil my agreement,
cried Antar, drag me by my feet through the temple of fire, and make a
sacrifice of me. Mubidan smiled, and he introduced him to the officers
of Government who wore golden bracelets on their arms, and afterwards
to those who wore crowns on their heads. King Monzar dismounted, and
all his horsemen, and then entered the apartments of the Nobles, and
the Viziers, and Satraps, and Grandees, and Dignitaries. Antar was in
amazement at what he saw, and the people also stared and gazed at him;
and this continued till they came before Chosroe. Monzar stepped forward
and saluted him, and prayed for a continuance of his glory and power.
Then Antar too paid his homage, and thus spoke:
“May God avert from thee the evils of fortune, and mays’t thou live
secure from calamities! May thy star be ever brilliant in progressive
prosperity, and increase in glory! May thy sword be ever sharp, and
cleave the necks of thy foes, O thou King of the age! May thy renown be
ever celebrated in every land, for thou art just and beneficent. So mayst
thou ever live a Sovereign in glory, as long as the dove pours forth its
plaintive note.”
Chosroe was astonished at Antar’s eloquence, and was confounded at the
height of his person, and his prodigious form, and the rolling of his
eyes, and the strength of his arms. O King of the world, said Mubidan,
this is he who has slain your satrap Khosrewan, and destroyed his army
of twenty thousand bridles, and he is come now to take away the life of
this Greek, and to remove every grief and sorrow from your heart, and no
doubt he wilt slay all that are with him. Should this be the case, said
the Monarch, we will pardon his fault, and ennoble him with gifts. Let
them repose: treat them with all kindness and hospitality. And he sent
for King Monzar, and gave him a robe. O King of the Arabs, said he, the
error was mine at first, and his who raised this rebellion amongst you;
but the fire has destroyed him in your presence. The heart of Monzar was
delighted at these words, and his joy was great.
And when Mubidan wished to pitch tents for them that they might repose
till the next day—By the Holy Shrine, exclaimed Antar, I will not eat
meat with you, or drink wine with you, until I have slain this foul-raced
Greek, and made him drink the cup of death: for he has moved the heart of
the just King. So he prepared his arms and his cuirass, and sprang from
the ground on the back of his horse. Mubidan informed Chosroe of what
Antar had said, and he went forth with all his Viziers, Satraps, Princes
and Deputies, to see the result of the combat between the two warriors.
Mubidan also repaired to the Grecian Chief, and said—Know that Chosroe
has in his justice acted towards you with the greatest impartiality, and
he has loaded you with favours, and he has only found amongst his people,
Bahram, that can contend with you; and the King observes even his
inferiority. But as he does not wish that his reputation should be lost,
his Vicegerent over the Arabs is arrived this day, and with him a warrior
selected from the heroes of Arabia, who says he will meet you and make
your companions and comrades groan for you. So prepare; and if you kill
him or overcome him, return to your master with all the property you have
brought with you.
Badhramoot was overjoyed at this; his bosom swelled, and he was in
extasy, and he said—Let Chosroe order out this angry horseman—this day
will I haste against him, and make him drink the cup of disgrace. And
Mubidan added—Let the persons of your faith bear witness for you. Antar
understood not what they were saying—Prepare for battle, he cried; and
immediately the Greek let go the bridle, and assailed Antar the son of
Shedad. Antar was like a furious lion, as he thus spoke:
“This day I will aid King Monzar, and I will exhibit my powers and my
prowess before Chosroe; I will break down the support of Greece from its
foundations, and I will sever Badhramoot’s head with my scimitar. I will
exterminate every lion hero with my sword: let him vaunt, let him boast,
let him scoff. Is it not known that my power is sublime on high!—Is it
not among the stars in the vicinity of Jupiter? I am he whose might is
uncontroulable in battle. I am of the race of Abs, the valiant lion
of the cavern. If thou art Badhramoot, I am called Antar among men. It
was easy for me to vanquish the armies of Chosroe in the contest; and
soon will I overthrow Cæsar’s self with my spear. Hear the words of an
intrepid lion, resolute, undaunted, all-conquering. I am he of whom
warriors can bear witness in the combat under the turbid battle-dust. My
sword is my companion in the night-shades, as are also my Abjer, and my
lance and my spear in the conflicts. Night is my complexion, but day is
my emblem; the sun is unquestionably the mirror of my deeds. This day
thou shalt feel the truth of what I have said: and I will prove that I am
the Phœnix of the age.”
Then Antar rushed down upon the Grecian like a cloud, and the Greek met
him like a blazing fire. They engaged like two lions; they maddened at
each other like two camels, and they dashed against each other like two
mountains, so that they frightened every eye with their deeds. A dust
rose over them that hid them from the sight for two hours. The Greek
perceived in Antar something beyond his capacity, and a sea where there
was no rest: he was terrified and agitated, and exclaimed—by the Messiah
and his disciples! this biscuit is not of the same leaven—this is the
hour of contention; and now is the time for struggle and exertion. So
he shouted and roared at Antar and attacked him with his spike-pointed
spear, and dealt him a furious thrust; but Antar eluded it by a dexterous
movement, and struck him with the heel of his lance under the arm, and
made him totter on the back of his horse; and he almost hurled him on the
ground: but Badramoot with infinite intrepidity, sat firm on his horse’s
back, and gallopped to the further part of the plain. Antar waited
patiently till he had recovered, and his spirit was renewed, when he
returned upon him like a ferocious lion, and recommenced the conflict.
King Monzar was highly gratified at the deeds of Antar and felt convinced
that he was only sparing him, and dallying with him, and that had he
wished to kill him, he would have done it. But the Monarch was perfectly
astonished at Antar’s courage; and turning to his attendants, said to
them—By the essence of fire, this is indeed horsemanship and intrepidity.
Never have I remarked such but in an Arab! And he advanced towards the
field of battle that he might observe what passed between these dreadful
combatants, and that he might see how the affair would terminate.
Now Bahram, when he perceived that Antar was superior to himself in
strength, and was mightier than the Greek in the conflict, felt assured
that he would obtain the promised reward; so he was seized with the
disease of envy, which preyed in flames upon his heart and his body,
particularly when he heard that Antar had slain the son of his uncle;
then he resolved to betray Antar, and make him drink of the cup of
perdition. So he waited till both were involved in dust, when he drew
from under his thigh a dart more deadly than the misfortunes of the age;
and when he came near Antar, he raised his arm and aimed at him the
blow of a powerful hero. It started from his hand like a spark of fire;
but Antar was quick of mind, and his eyes were continually turning to
the right and to the left, for he was amongst a nation that were not of
his own race, and that put him on his guard, and he instantly perceived
Bahram as he aimed his dart at him; and then casting away his spear
out of his hand, he caught the dart in the air with his heaven-endowed
force and strength, and rushing at the Greek, and shouting at him with a
paralysing voice, he struck him with that very dart in the chest, and it
issued out quivering like a flame through his back; then wheeling round
Abjer, like a frightful lion he turned down upon Bahram; but Chosroe,
terrified lest Antar should slay Bahram, cried out to his attendants—Keep
off Antar from Bahram, or he will kill him, and pour down annihilation
upon him. So the warriors and the satraps hastened after the dreadful
Antar, and conducted him to Chosroe, and as the foam burst from his lips,
and his eye-balls flashed fire, he dismounted from Abjer, and thus spoke:
“May God perpetuate thy glory and happiness, and mayst thou ever live in
eternal bliss! O thou King mighty in power, and the source of justice on
every occasion! I have left Badramoot prostrate on the sands—wallowing
in blood. At the thrust of my spear he fell dead, and his flesh is
the prey of the fowls of the air. I left the gore spouting out from
him like the stream on the day of the copious rain. I am the terrible
warrior; renowned is my name, and I protect my friend from every peril.
Should Cæsar himself oppose thee, O King, and come against thee—with
his countless host, I will leave him dead with his companions. True and
unvarnished is this promise. O King, sublime in honours—illustrious
and happy, thou art now firm refuge, and my stay in every crisis. Be
kind then, and grant me leave to go to my family, and to prepare for
my departure: for my anxiety, and my passion for the noble-minded,
brilliant-faced Ibla are intense. Hail for ever—be at peace—live in
everlasting prosperity, surrounded by joys and pleasures!”
Chosroe again marvelled at his eloquence, and clothed him with an
imperial robe, and presented him five Arab horses, with saddles of
burnished gold, studded with pearls and jewels. He then addressed
Mubidan, and said—Deliver to this warrior all that came with the Greek,
whether merchandize or beautiful maidens; and he knew no bounds to his
generosity, adding—Bring him to me to-morrow that I may exalt him with
favours, and that I may make him one of our Viceroys of the age. Do ye
want any thing further? cried he to the companions of the Greek? Does any
one wish for the combat and the conflict? If so, let him hasten to the
field of battle.
No more talk we of war and contention, said they all; we only came to
this country with the Chief to be witnesses of this event and conflict;
and verily, O King of the age, we have experienced every justice from
you. So they departed, and turned away their steeds, and traversed the
plains and deserts, hardly crediting their escape.
Chosroe repaired to his palace, and Mubidan had charge of Antar’s
affairs: he conducted him and Monzar to the house of the Greek Chief,
where were the treasures and the presents. He opened all the trunks,
and presented to Aboolfawaris all the pearls and the jewels and the
precious stones. Antar rejoiced and smiled, and exclaimed—O what joy!
where are thine eyes, O Ibla? but by the faith of an Arab there is not
in all the treasures of the King, one atom of her, no not one grain.
And as he regarded the maidens of Greece and of Europe and the Cophtian
slave girls, his joy was increased, and he blessed the termination of his
expedition; and he kissed Mubidan’s breast and beard, and he praised him
in these words:
“Thou hast granted me favours, and I must publish my gratitude; thou hast
accomplished my every wish for happiness. I will thank thee as long as I
live, and if I die, my bones in their grave shall praise thee.”
Mubidan was truly gratified at Antar’s praises. Renowned hero, said he,
we do not mean that you should be content with this small gift, for this
is not our property. You shall soon behold our beneficence; this is
the wealth and these the jewels, the blue-eyed Greek, whom you killed
and made to drink of the cup of death and disgrace, brought with him.
But we would not have consigned this most precious property, and these
maidens who resemble the constellations, but to one who should vanquish
and debase him: and verily, you are the irresistible one, that has done
that, and the property becomes your property, and you have obtained it by
your actions. He then ordered the slaves to spread carpets in a splendid
mansion, and to arrange the vases and ewers; and they did as they were
ordered; they laid out the dinner tables before Monzar and Antar and
their companions. And when Antar observed the variety of delicious meats,
of mutton and pigeons and thrushes, and the quantity of doves, and the
profusion of sweatmeats, he turned towards Monzar, and said—My lord,
are these various viands their usual victuals? are they at all times
accustomed to such luscious things? for I see here no camel’s flesh.
What art thou talking of? cried Monzar; think no more of the inhabitants
of the wilds and deserts, and those that drink camels milk night and day;
habituate thyself to the inhabitants of towns and cities, for thou must
live in the vicinity of great Kings. So Antar ate till he was satisfied;
the glasses passed round, and they killed the jovial hours in mirth and
merriment: and when the female slaves knew they were the property of
Antar, they came to offer their service, and whenever he got up or sat
down, they surrounded him: but he would not take the least notice of
them, for no one but Ibla was in his heart.
O Aboolfawaris, said Monzar, thou dost not delight in, or seem to look on
thy slaves with pleasure; or feel sensible of thy high dignity. Remove
all painful reflections, or thoughts of thine own country, for thou hast
risen to the rank of princes; and were the Chieftains of thy nation to
see thee, how they would envy thee! Antar heard this; he sighed from his
sorrowing heart, and tears flowed from his eyes. O my lord, said he, I
swear by your existence, all this grandeur has no value, no charm in my
eyes; love of my native land is the fixed passion of my soul, and he thus
continued:
“The fresh breeze comes in the morn, and when it blows on me with its
refreshing essence, it is more grateful to me than all which my power
has obtained in nightly depredations—than all my property and wealth.
The realms of Chosroe I would not covet, were the phantom of my love
to vanish from my sight. May the showers of rain ever bedew the lands
and mounds of Sheerebah! lands, where the brilliancy of the veiled full
moons may be seen in the obscurity of their sable ringlets—where my heart
chases among them, a damsel whose eyes are painted with antimony, more
lovely than the Houri. Thou mayst see in her teeth a liquor when she
smiles, where the wine cup is studded with pearls. The fawn has borrowed
the magic of her eye, and it is the lion of the earth that chases its
prey for her beauty. Lovely maid—delicately formed—beauteous—enchanting!
and at her charms is the brightness of the moon abashed. O Ibla, the
anguish of absence is in my heart—thou mayst see the shafts of death
driven through my soul. O Ibla, did not thy visionary form visit me by
night, I should pass the night in sorrows and restlessness. O Ibla, how
many calamities have I endured and have plunged into them with my highly
tempered faulchion, whilst the charging steeds and undaunted warriors
dive into the ever perilous ocean of death.”
Monzar was greatly surprised at Antar’s fluency of speech, and the
force of his love and passion, and he began conversing with him about
what occupied his mind; and thus they continued till it was dark, and
sleep came upon them. So they passed the night there. In the morning
came Mubidan to them, accompanied by a troop of slaves. He complimented
them, and enquired about their night’s rest, and how they were pleased.
Mount your horses, he continued, to go and compliment Chosroe, for he is
prepared to go out hunting and amuse himself. As to me, said Antar, I
have no other desire but speedily to return to my family and my country,
that my friends and companions may see me, and the Asafeer camels I have
with me as a marriage dower for my uncle’s daughter.
Mubidan smiled at these words, and knew his wish and object. O
Aboolfawaris, said he, your expectations shall be gratified with respect
to the Asafeer camels, all laden, and many others besides; and you shall
not return to your native land, ’ere you receive them all piled up with
burthens. Antar expressed his thanks, and with Monzar mounted, and they
all accompanied Mubidan, till on perceiving Nushirvan, they instantly
dismounted. Antar presented himself, and attempted to kiss Chosroe’s feet
in the stirrup, but the King not only prevented him, but stooped towards
him and kissed him between the eyes; and never had Nushirvan conferred
such a mark of distinction on any one but Antar, the destroyer of heroes,
on account of his having vanquished the Greek warrior, and having
removed distress and affliction from his mind. He ordered some noble
Arab horses to be brought before Antar; and the satraps delivered to
him some of the finest breed, all glittering with housings of burnished
gold. Antar mounted, and Chosroe kept him by his side and treated him
as a companion, and conversed with him, and enquired about his night’s
rest, and his love for his tribe and friends. They continued their ride
till they reached the hunting spot; but no one entered that place except
Nushirvan, when he wished to hunt and amuse himself; and guards were
stationed over it on all sides, fearful that any one should enter; and as
it was filled in all quarters and directions, the wild beasts and deer
ran away from before them; and as the horsemen advanced, the birds took
to flight from every part; the warriors gallopped and the heroes raced
their steeds, and they spread abroad in all directions.
When Antar observed this sport, he urged on his horse with the other
riders, and pursued a herd of deer with great eagerness, and at length
overtook them; he gallopped among them, and stretched many of them on
the plain, and he was much amused and pleased. But whilst he was thus
occupied, behold an horseman pounced down upon him like an eagle, and as
he came up to him, he opened wide his arm, and stretching himself out,
struck Antar a violent blow; it fell between his shoulders; it staggered
him, and almost laid him prostrate; but he recovered himself; he was
however tottering from the back of his horse, when—Take that, thou Hedjaz
dog! cried the villain; and if thou hast any breath of life in thee, come
on and fight, for I must slay thee, thou vile black, as thou slewest my
cousin Khosrewan, and the Greek, and made them drink of the cup of death
and disgrace; and thou hast obtained possession of all that property and
those beauteous slaves, and thou art exalted in the presence of Chosroe.
Now this horseman was Bohram, the Chief of Deelem. He conceived against
Antar a deadly hatred and envy, which consumed his heart and his body;
and when Chosroe ordered him not to get into any disputes with Antar,
warning him against his superior powers, Bohram went to his own people,
and said to them—If this slave depart in safety with all his spoil and
plunder, our honour will be debased among the tribes of the Cross and the
Priest’s gown, and no one will have any respect for us. From that time
he indulged to such a degree his envy against Antar, that he watched him
till he thus caught him alone in the hunt, and traitorously assailed him.
But he knew not that Antar was a warrior, fixed as the mountain’s roots;
and as he still saw him firmly seated on his horse, he grasped his sword
and advanced at him; but Antar, recovering from the violence of the blow,
wheeled round his horse and waited till he recognised his foe: then he
sought him as a bird of prey the weakest dove, and his assault was the
assault of the fiercest lion! and thus he addressed him:
“The Almighty has exposed thee to a lion warrior, that thou mayest fall
subdued by my sword, O thou, sprung from the worshippers of the sunbeams,
and from those who adore the blazing flames. Fate will repay thee, for it
has devoted thee to the fight with me, and to the horrors of my strength.
Despair; all thy hopes are frustrated, founded on the crush of thy mace
and the warrior-yell. Thou art indeed like the moth, that when it sees
the flame, imagines its safety is in its destruction. Stand firm then to
the spear-thrust of him whose force thou hast sought. Thou wouldst insult
a lion, powerful in every combat. Take then the spear-thrust from the
hand of one to whom the dæmons of the desert have bowed in submission,
and from whom they implore the aid of God.”
Then he came down on him like a cloud, and he aimed a slight thrust at
him with the heel of his spear, and broke his ribs, and threw him from
the back of his horse the distance of two spear’s lengths. The warriors
of Deelem beheld the deed, and thought he was dead and in a state of
annihilation; and they all rushed down upon Antar, crying at him in their
various dialects. But he met them like a flash of lightning, and he
began driving at them and repulsing them—his eye-balls turned red, they
appeared like crimson blood—he grasped his never failing Dhami in his
hand, resolved not to leave a Deelemite alive. Just then came up Chosroe
with his visiers and satraps, and they cried out to the Deelemites in
Persian, for they had heard what Bohram had done: and the Deelemites
withdrew from the combat, saying, this black slave has brought disgrace
upon us, and has slain our Chief! ’Tis false, said Mubidan, ye foul
wretches of Deelem, your Chief is the aggressor; but he ought in duty to
have treated him kindly, and have waited on him himself, for he has done
for us what no human being could do, and if he has slain your Chief, he
is not to blame.
Mubidan then requested Antar to advance, who related all that had passed
between him and Bohram; and Chosroe believed his words, for he was aware
of the folly of his servant. He then ordered his satraps to seize the
Deelemites, and bring them before him to strike off their heads. They
seized them all, and pinioned their shoulders and bound their arms. But
Antar, seeing Bohram’s attendants thus disgraced, dismounted from Abjer,
and advanced towards the great King, and kissing the earth before him,
begged him to pardon them, saying, O my lord; pardon is becoming in you,
and most suitable for such as you—here I kiss your noble hands, praying
you to forgive them this crime, for to-morrow I intend to return home:
my objects and wishes with respect to you are accomplished, and I do not
wish to be mentioned after my departure, but for virtuous deeds; and let
it not be said of me, I went unto a tribe, and left it in disgrace, and
clothed with shame.
Chosroe admired Antar’s benevolence and generosity of soul; he granted
his request, and released the Deelemites. At mid-day he returned from the
hunt, and repaired to a garden unequalled in any city of the world, and
in it was collected all that the lip or the tongue can covet. It was a
superb palace, like a fairy pavilion—ninety cubits in length, and seventy
cubits wide, built of marble and red cornelian; in the centre was a
fountain filled with rose water and purest musk, in the middle of it was
a column of emerald, and on its summit a hawk of burnished gold; its eyes
were topazes and its beak jasper; round it were various birds, scattering
from their bills upon Chosroe and all that were present, musk and
ambergris. The whole edifice was scented with perfumes, and the ceilings
of the palace glittered with gold and silver. It was one of the wonders
of the period, and the miracle of the age. When Antar entered, his mind
was bewildered at the pictures and colours he saw, and he thus expressed
himself.
“A Palace—greetings and peace be on it—Time has spread its beauties over
it. A Palace—the roofs of cities might stand beneath its roof. On it are
the directions for the paths of virtue. Strong are its columns, gilded
are its walls; mankind may glory in its magnificence. Over its gates have
jewels and pure unalloyed gold disposed their honours; there is nothing
further to be desired. On it are the wonders of every species of miracle;
the senses are bewildered in describing it; beautifully perfect is every
elegant device: nothing can exceed its excellence. And the King shines
above all Kings in his acts and his justice—May days and years endure for
him!”
At the upper end of the gardens there was raised for Chosroe, a throne
of burnished gold and pillars of green emerald, and pedestals of silver
that sent forth refulgent rays in the darkest night. Round it were stools
of ivory and ebony inlaid with brilliant gold. Chosroe seated himself on
the throne, and ordered Monzar and Antar to sit by him: thus exalting
him high above all that were present. The attendants and suite also sat
down; every one took his place; and they were no sooner arranged than
the dinner tables were served with various dainties, and a profusion of
fruits and sweatmeats. Chosroe advanced, and all that were present, and
partook of the repast. But Antar’s eyes were in confusion. He sat down on
his knees, and bared his arms, chucking the things into his mouth, but
never moved his jaws: he gorged himself like an hungry Arab, and roared
like a wild beast, to the great amazement of Chosroe, who supplied him
with every variety that was before him: and Antar devoured them, as he
asked Monzar the name of each. So they brought him meats of all kinds
till he had crammed his stomach; then raising his head up he thus spoke:
“Hail, O King, whose bounties, in his age, stand in lieu of the rain. O
thou, the Kiblah[6] of petitioners—O crown of glory—O full moon of this
period—O thou planet Saturn. O thou whose seat is raised above Pisces—O
thou the refuge of all that sorrow—thy station is on high far above the
world—it is a rain-cloud that bestows its showers on mankind. When he
fights, all the world fear his assaults, as if a lion were by his side.
He is the seat of justice in his age—liberality and equity reign in his
realms. O ye dwellers in the land of Abs, I have received from Chosroe
and his munificence, what cannot be described or enumerated—no day can
suffice to detail an account of such goodness. The King has attained the
heights of virtue by his glory; and happiness dwells in his palace. With
him I am firmly established in honour, and in his gardens I have beheld a
fountain whose waters abound like his favors, and the liberality of his
palm. His garden contains every flower of every species, and brilliant
are their charms. The birds in every note sing as if they were praising
his bounties to us. He is a King! whenever he charges in the day of
battle, the lions of the war are astonished at his greatness, Victory
is among his companions, and glory and honour are his friends. Amongst
nations then will I speak my gratitude for his favours, and I will engage
the horsemen on his side.”
When Antar had delighted the King by his eloquence, the slaves presented
him the wine, and they poured him out wine that was like fire, and
resembled the rosy cheeks of a mistress, till the liquor played with
his wits, and refreshed all the pleasures he had enjoyed. Antar looked
upon this jovial feast as a dream: for his heart and soul were at home,
and all his desires centered in Ibla. After some time Chosroe addressed
him, and asked him questions, and joked and laughed with him, enquiring
about his country and its habitations. Antar related all that had passed
with his uncle Malik and the tribe of Abs and so forth; and when the
King was certain that his affection for Ibla was unshaken, and that
his love could not possibly admit of increase;—I am truly surprised, O
Absian, said he, at your forbearance and your reserve, your grievances
being of such a nature. O my lord, said Antar, I swear by the existence
of your munificence, that is unbounded, and the liberality of your
hands, that can never be forgotten. I am a dead man among the living! O
Aboolfawaris, added Monzar, abandon the expressions of ignorant Arabs,
and recollect that you are in a place, where decorum and civility are
expected. Fill your glass and drink, and listen to the voice of the
songstress who would soothe the afflicted; and enjoy the happy hours. Ah!
said Antar, how delightful would be all you say, were my heart at ease,
and thus he exclaimed.
“Wine cannot calm my heart, sickness will not quit my body—my eyelids
are ever sore—tears ever stream in torrents from them. The songstress
would soothe my heart with her voice; but my love-sick heart loathes it.
The remembrances of Ibla draw off my mind from her song, and I would say
to my friend, this is all a dream. In the land of Hedjaz are the tents
of my tribe, and to meet them again is forbidden me. Amongst the tents
of that people is a plump-hipped damsel that never removes her veil,
and under her veil are eyes that inspire sickness, and the pupils of
her eyes strike with disease. Between her lips is the purest musk, and
camphor diluted with wine. My love and madness are dear to me, for to
him who loves, sweet is the pang of love. O daughter of Malik, let my
foes triumph in my absence; let them watch or sleep. But in my journey I
have encountered events that would turn children gray in their cradles.
Pleasures have succeeded to difficulties, and I have met a monarch whom
no words can describe—a King to whom all the creation is a slave, and
to whom fortune is a vassal, whose hand distributes bounties, so that I
know not whether it is the sea or a cloud. The sun has invested him with
a crown, so that the world need not fear darkness. The stars are his
jewels, in which there is a moon brilliant and luminous, as at its full.
Mankind is corporeal, and he is spiritual. Let every joint and every
member laud his name. Live for ever, Prince of the horsemen, long as the
dove pours its plaintive note, live for ever!”
Chosroe was greatly pleased and surprised at these verses, for he was
himself eloquent in the Arabian dialect. Were I to give you my kingdom,
O Absian, said he, it would be a small gift in comparison with your
deserts, for what I can grant is but transitory, like all other things;
but your commendations will endure for ages. Oblige me, and demand of me
what may gratify you, that I may at any rate make you some compensation
for your praises. Indeed, said Antar, I have fallen by your bounty into a
sea that has neither length nor breadth, and I shall not return but with
what will raise my glory amongst my countrymen; but I really do wish my
uncle’s daughter, Ibla, had on her head a tiara like this, for it would
set her off finely; but I know it is very ill-bred in me to make such a
request.
Chosroe laughed and smiled at Antar’s remark; he spoke to one of his
satraps, who rose up, and in a short time returned, and with him were
four slaves bearing a canopy of silver; on the top of it was a hawk
formed of burnished gold, its eyes were of topazes and its feet emeralds.
This canopy, Aboolfawaris, shall serve your uncle’s daughter to sit in on
the night of her marriage with you, and in this tiara shall she be wedded
to you; and he took the tiara from his head, and untying his girdle and
mantle and his coronet, he laid them down in the pavilion, desiring Antar
to accept them all. Antar advanced towards the King, kissed his hands,
and thus addressed him:
“O King of the universe, I thank thee for the vast gifts thou hast
bestowed upon me; thou hast granted me favors I cannot bear; thou art the
most beneficent of all that tread the earth! thou art the man to whom all
Kings bow in the day of battle; every Arab and every Persian. But thy
slave still lives in the agony he endures from his love, his weakness,
and his passion. He lives far from his friends, for whom he thirsts; and
languishing for Ibla, he lives restless in torments.”
The King’s astonishment increased. Absian, said he, oblige me by
demanding what more you want; I request of you, said Antar, the renewal
of the appointment of King Monzar. I will do it, Antar, said Chosroe;
and he directed it to be written throughout the imperial dominions,
that Monzar should not be removed from his government of Massema, and
had he even a blind daughter, she should be the ruler thereof. Have you
any other want, said he, delivering the letter to Antar. I have no other
wish, said Antar, but to return to my country and home.
When those that envied and hated Antar among the Persians, on account
of the presents and honours he had received, saw this, they conspired
to destroy him, and carry off his property. Now Chosroe had a famous
wrestler, called Rostam, and he was celebrated for his pugilistic skill
through various realms and cities. Antar’s enemies went to him in order
to instigate him against Antar, saying—Know, most expert of men, that
this insignificant worthless black slave has received Chosroe’s tiara,
and immense wealth, and is returning with it to his own country. Rostam
sprang up like a lion, and presenting himself to the King without asking
permission, kissed the ground—O great King, said he, if you have any
consideration for me, let not a slave of the desert be more dignified
than I am. You have made him one of your associates. I am the pugilist of
your throne, and therefore let not that head be raised above me.
Antar heard and saw, but understood not what was passing. Rostam, said
Chosroe, abandon this envious disposition, or thou wilt die of anguish.
I wish, said Rostam, he would present himself before you, and then I
will prove to you he is not worthy your esteem. I will slay him with this
mace, and will unite him to the tribes of Aad and Themood.
On hearing this the King was greatly vexed. Do you comprehend, said he to
Antar, what he says, Aboolfawaris? I have not understood what he said,
but I can perceive that he is very jealous, and that his head is like
the head of a camel, said Antar. Let me hear what he wants, that I may
comply with his request. This man is my wrestler, said Chosroe, and is
come to try his strength with you in wrestling, and prove your powers in
the combat. Is he not one of your warriors, asked Antar, and those with
him are they not your men? Yes, said Chosroe. I forbade his interference
with you, but he will not be dissuaded. Well, said Antar, I cannot allow
my arm to be extended to his injury, and my heart will not allow me to
hurt him on account of your bounty and favour, and great kindness towards
me: not that this unwillingness on my part originates in fear, or in any
inferiority to him; but that the Arabs should hear of me, and accuse
me of making troubles and dissensions; nor that the noble Arabs may
say of me that Antar, the son of Shedad, presented himself to Chosroe,
and partook of his food, and then slew his subjects in his presence.
Aboolfawaris, said the King, much agitated, if you wrestle with him,
will you kill him? Yes, said Antar, for he only seeks to wrestle with
me, that he may destroy me; and you know, O King, that wrestling is one
species of warfare; and justice and propriety are required in it! and if
one antagonist prevails over the other antagonist, he abuses and reviles
him, but should his antagonist be angry at him, he kills him.
Listen to me, said Chosroe to Rostam; do not provoke this man. I fear
for you, lest he overcome you, and if you do not behave properly to him,
he will tear out your life from between your ribs. I must wrestle with
him, said Rostam; if he kills me, let my blood and property be his, and
esteemed duly won among these warriors. Strip off your clothes then, said
Chosroe, his countenance inflamed with wrath, and prepare for the combat.
I will tell him that he may engage with you, and that your blood will be
fairly his. So Rostam took off his garments, and was stripped from his
shoulders, that were harder than a rock, and his twisted arms were like
columns.
Arise Aboolfawaris, said the King, and wrestle with him, and if he plays
the fool with you, slay him, and hasten his death, and mind not the
consequences; you are not answerable for his blood.
Antar sprang on his legs, and threw about his arms and twisted his skirts
about his waistband; and as he was about to begin, Aboolfawaris, said
Chosroe, you have not stripped, or put on the short breeches, as every
pugilist does. By your existence, O King of the age, replied Antar, I
never in my life wrestled with short breeches, and never will I wrestle
but in the clothes of a horseman. Chosroe was greatly troubled. By the
burning of fire, he exclaimed, Never, in the course of my life, have
I seen a man wrestle as a horseman, without breeches. To day, said
Antar, you shall see what I will do with Rostam in the presence of these
warriors.
Antar went up to Rostam. Rostam bent himself like an arch, and appeared
like a burning flame. He rushed upon Antar with all his force, for he
looked on him as a common man, and he did not know that Antar, even in
his youth, used to wrestle with he and she camels in the plains and
the rocks. They grasped each other with their hands, they butted with
their heads, they assaulted with their whole might, like two lions or
two elephants. Then Rostam stretched out his hand at Antar’s waistband,
and clung to it, and attempted to lift him up in his arms, but he found
him like a stone fixed in a tower, and he tottered before him. Then he
repented of what he had done, and of having provoked Antar. He slackened
his hold, and he ran round him for an hour, in the presence of Chosroe
and his attendants. He then sprang behind him, and thrust his head
between his legs, and attempted to raise him on the back of his neck, and
to dash him on the ground; but Antar knew what were his intentions and
his secret designs: so he closed his knees on Rostam’s neck, and almost
made his eye-balls start from their sockets, and nearly deprived him of
life. Rostam was terrified, and wished to escape from between his legs,
but he could not; every attempt failed; Antar was like a block of stone
growing on a desert or a mountain. Antar siezed him by his breeches, and
clung to him, and raised him up in his hands like a sparrow in the claws
of a bird of prey, and walked away with him among the multitude, wishing
to wrestle quietly before the King. But Rostam, when he saw his life was
in Antar’s hands, like a young child was abashed and mortified before
the warriors and satraps, and the great King. He clenched his fist, and
struck Antar on the ear. Antar soon recovered from the blow—he returned
to the threshold of the palace, and dashed him on the ground, and smashed
him to atoms. Then presenting himself to Chosroe he thus spoke.
“Death has resolved he should die slain, and should be subdued and
disgraced by me. Curses on his hands! It was his arrogant folly that
pointed out the road by which he should be destroyed. Had thy eyes beheld
my deeds in the combat, where the spears tears the hands of the lancers,
thou wouldst have feared for the extinction of his days when he outraged
me in this lengthened action. O King, who has enjoyed every glory,
listen to my story and the account of my honours. He sought in every
way to increase his fame by his deeds; so I left him after that reduced
to infamy. Truly he hastened the time of his own fate, and his destiny
was at my disposal. God ordained his death for his acts, and determined
it should be executed by my hand. Hail, then, O King! live for ever in
protected happiness that may never fail thee.”
Then was Nushirvan quite confounded at his powers. O King, said Antar,
I swear by the two eyes of Ibla (to me the most sacred of oaths), that
when I raised him on my Hands, my only intention was to bring him before
you and wrestle in your presence: but as he transgressed the fair
laws of battle, there was nothing for him but death. Chosroe believed
what he said, and ordered Rostam’s property to be confiscated, and to
be transferred to Antar, and he gave him a written assignment of his
possessions and fiefs.
And when the day was spent, Monzar hemmed the signal for rising: Antar
got up, and asked Chosroe’s permission to commence his journey: the order
being given for his being supplied with the finest steeds, and all their
golden accoutrements and rich housings. They went to the house that was
set apart for them; where Antar found treasures of wealth, and horses
and mules, and he and she camels, and other goods no words can tell.
Antar asked whence they came: Aboolfawaris, said Monzar, this is the
property of Rostam: and they reposed till morning; when Mubidan came and
complimented them, and as he was going with them to Nushirvan, I wish,
my lord, said Antar to the Vizier, that you would introduce me to the
temples of fire.[7]
FOOTNOTES
[1] _Cercis Siliquastrum_, the flowers of which are of a very bright
purple colour, coming out from the branches and stem on every side, in
large clusters, and on short peduncles.
[2] Redeini—the name of the wife of a famous spear-maker.—_Richardson._
[3] Young orphans did not inherit at the death of their fathers; all
property belonged to the tribe; as they had not laboured, they had not
merited.
[4] This is one of the very few passages which occur throughout this
work, containing any allusion to supernatural agents.
[5] Διος δ’ ἐτελέιετο βουλὴ.
[6] The point to which the Arabs turned their faces in prayer.
[7] _The Continuation of this History has not yet been received in
England._ ED.
_December, 1818._
London: Printed by W. Bulmer and Co.
Cleveland-row, St. James’s