he empire would be no difficult task; but this woman seems
to be more fortunate than a warrior-king. Even her general remains
inactive with the great body of his army; and a youth, with a small
force, is sufficient to subdue the legions of Rum; we had, therefore,
better return to our own country." The principal warriors entertained
the same sentiments, and suggested to Kaisar the necessity of retiring
from the field; but the king opposed this measure, thinking it cowardly
and disgraceful, and said:--

"To-morrow we renew the fight,
To-morrow we shall try our might;
To-morrow, with the smiles of Heaven,
To us the victory will be given."

Accordingly on the following day the armies met again, and after a
sanguinary struggle, the Persians were again triumphant. Kaisar now
despaired of success, sent a messenger to Rishnawad, in which he
acknowledged the aggressions he had committed, and offered to pay him
whatever tribute he might require. Rishnawad readily settled the terms
of the peace; and the emperor was permitted to return to his own
dominions.

After this event Rishnawad sent to Humai intelligence of the victories
he had gained, and of the surprising valor of Darab, transmitting to her
the ruby as an evidence of his birth. Humai was at once convinced that
he was her son, for she well remembered the day on which he was enrolled
as one of her soldiers, when her heart throbbed with instinctive
affection at the sight of him; and though she had unfortunately failed
to question him then, she now rejoiced that he was so near being
restored to her. She immediately proceeded to the Atish-gadeh, or the
Fire-altar, and made an offering on the occasion; and ordering a great
fire to be lighted, gave immense sums away in charity to the poor.
Having called Darab to her presence, she went with a splendid retinue to
meet him at the distance of one journey from the city; and as soon as he
approached, she pressed him to her bosom, and kissed his head and eyes
with the fondest affection of a mother. Upon the first day of happy
omen, she relinquished in his favor the crown and the throne, after
having herself reigned thirty-two years.

DARAB AND DARA

When Darab had ascended the throne, he conducted the affairs of the
kingdom with humanity, justice, and benevolence; and by these means
secured the happiness of his people. He had no sooner commenced his
reign, than he sent for the washerman and his wife, and enriched them