Káús, the mighty Sháh, was filled with wrath
And raged at Rustam with dilated eyes:—
“So then the truth is out at last! 'Twas thou
That prompted this to root up from his heart
Revenge! Thine aim was ease and not the glory
Of signet, crown, and throne. Abide thou here,
And Tús shall mount the drums as general.
I will dispatch a horseman with a letter
Writ in harsh terms to Balkh. If Siyáwush
Will not obey he shall resign the host
To Tús and come back with his own retainers.

He shall receive fit treatment at my hands
For thwarting me, and nevermore will I
Call thee my friend or have thee fight my battles.”
Then Rustam cried in dudgeon: “Heaven may hide
My head! If Tús be valianter than Rustam
Then know that Rustam is a nidering.”
He left the presence frowning angrily,
And with his forces hasted toward Sístán.
The Sháh anon called Tús and bade him lead
The army forth. Tús coming from the presence
Commanded that the troops should be equipped
With drums and trumpets, be prepared to start.
And put all thoughts of peaceful home apart.