They determined, at length, to pursue pacific measures, and endeavor by splendid presents and conciliatory language to regain the good-will of Feridún. The elephants were immediately loaded with treasure, a crown of gold, and other articles of value, and a messenger was dispatched, charged with an acknowledgment of guilt and abundant expressions of repentance. "It was Iblís," they said, "who led us astray, and our destiny has been such that we are in every way criminal. But thou art the ocean of mercy; pardon our offences. Though manifold, they were involuntary, and forgiveness will cleanse our hearts and restore us to ourselves. Let our tears wash away the faults we have committed. To Minúchihr and to thyself we offer obedience and fealty, and we wait your commands, being but the dust of your feet."
When the messenger arrived at the court of Feridún he first delivered the magnificent presents, and the king, having placed Minúchihr on a golden chair by his side, observed to him, "These presents are to thee a prosperous and blessed omen--they show that thy enemy is afraid of thee." Then the messenger was permitted to communicate the object of his mission.
He spoke with studied phrase, intent to hide, Or mitigate the horror of their crime; And with excuses plausible and bland His speech was dressed. The brothers, he observed, Desired to see their kinsman Minúchihr, And with the costliest gems they sought to pay The price of kindred blood unjustly shed-- And they would willingly to him resign Their kingdoms for the sake of peace and friendship.
The monarch marked him scornfully, and said: "Canst thou conceal the sun? It is in vain Truth to disguise with words of shallow meaning. Now hear my answer. Ask thy cruel masters, Who talk of their affection for the prince, Where lies the body of the gentle Irij? Him they have slain, the fierce, unnatural brothers, And now they thirst to gain another victim. They long to see the face of Minúchihr! Yes, and they shall, surrounded by his soldiers, And clad in steel, and they shall feel the edge Of life-destroying swords. Yes, they shall see him!"
After uttering this indignant speech, Feridún showed to the messenger his great warriors, one by one. He showed him Kavah and his two sons, Shahpúr, and Shírúeh, and Kárun, and Sám,[3] and Narímán, and other chiefs--all of admirable courage and valor in war--and thus resumed:
