§ 45 How Afrásiyáb sent Garsíwaz to Siyáwush

Afrásiyáb made known to Garsíwaz
Pírán's account without suppressing aught,
And said: “Go blithely to Siyáwushgird,
And scan it well. The heart of Siyáwush
Is on Túrán; he thinketh not of home
Now that he hath farewelled the throne and crown,
Farewelled Gúdarz, Bahrám, and Kai Káús.
He looketh not to Rustam son of Zál,
Nor taketh mace or battle-ax in hand,
But hath erected, where was once a field
Of thorns, a city like the jocund spring,
Hath raised a lofty dwelling-place therein
For Farangís, and holdeth her in honour.
Prepare to visit noble Siyáwush,
Say little when thou seest him on the throne,
But judge him from a monarch's point of view
At chase, at wine, on mountain or on plain,
And in assemblies, show him all respect
Before his nobles and exalt his name.
Prepare for him exceeding many gifts
Of horses and dínárs, of crowns and girdles,

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As well as jewelled thrones, brocade of Chín,
And armlets, maces, swords, and signet-rings,
With carpeting and trinkets of all kinds.
See what thou findest in the treasury,
And take besides a gift for Farangís.
Go thou with naught but praises on thy tongue,
And, shouldst thou find a joyous, smiling host,
Abide two sennights in that jocund city.”
Thereat the noble Garsíwaz selected
A thousand cavaliers, men of repute,
To go with all speed to Siyáwushgird.
The prince when news arrived went forth with troops
To welcome Garsíwaz; the two embraced
And Siyáwush inquired about the king,
Then going back provided for his guests.
Next morning early Garsíwaz drew nigh
And brought the monarch's message and the gifts.
When Siyáwush saw what Afrásiyáb
Had sent ??im he was like a rose in spring;
Then mounting on his proudly stepping steed,
And followed by the Íránian cavaliers,
Took Garsíwaz about the place, and when
He had shown all went to his home again.