Page:Persian Literature (1900), vol. 1.djvu/75

This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.

THE SHÁH NÁMEH

41

to commit that crime, and, on the following day, at an interview with Irij, he said to him: “Why didst thou consent to be the ruler of Persia, and fail in showing a proper regard for the interests of thy elder brothers? Whilst our barren kingdoms are constantly in a state of warfare with the Turks, thou art enjoying peace and tranquillity upon the throne of a fruitful country? Must we, thy elder brothers, remain thus under thy commands, and in subordinate stations?

Must thou have gold and treasure,And thy heart be wrapt in pleasure,Whilst we, thy elder born,Of our heritage are shorn?Must the youngest still be nursed,And the elder branches cursed?And condemned, by stern command,To a wild and sterile land?”

When Irij heard these words from Túr, he immediately replied, saying:

“I only seek tranquillity and peace;I look not on the crown of sovereignty.Nor seek a name among the Persian host;And though the throne and diadem are mine,I here renounce them, satisfied to leadA private life. For what hath ever beenThe end of earthly power and pomp, but darkness?I seek not to contend against my brothers;Why should I grieve their hearts, or give distressTo any human being? I am young,And Heaven forbid that I should prove unkind!”

Notwithstanding, however, these declarations of submission, and repeated assurances of his resolution to resign the monarchy of Persia, Túr would not believe one word. In a moment he sprung up, and furiously seizing the golden chair from which he had just risen, struck a violent blow with it on the head of Irij, calling aloud, “Bind him, bind him!” The youth, struggling on the ground, exclaimed: “O, think of thy father, and pity me! Have compassion on thy own soul! I came for thy protection, therefore do not take my life: if thou dost, my blood will call out for vengeance to the Almighty. I ask only for peace and retirement. Think of my father, and pity me!