the same night Afrásiyáb had a dream, in which he received intimation of
the birth of Kai-khosráu; and upon this intimation he sent for Pírán to
know why his commands had not been complied with. Pírán replied, that he
had cast away the child in the wilderness. "And why was he not sent to
me?" inquired the despot. "Because," said Pírán, "I considered thy own
future happiness; thou hast unjustly killed the father, and God forbid
that thou shouldst also kill the son!" Afrásiyáb was abashed, and it is
said that ever after the atrocious murder of Saiáwush, he had been
tormented with the most terrible and harrowing dreams. Gersíwaz now
became hateful to his sight, and he began at last deeply to repent of
his violence and inhumanity.

Kai-khosráu grew up under the fostering protection of the peasants, and
showed early marks of surprising talent and activity. He excelled in
manly exercises; and hunting ferocious animals was his peculiar delight.
Instructors had been provided to initiate him in all the arts and
pursuits cultivated by the warriors of those days, and even in his
twelfth year accounts were forwarded to Pírán of several wonderful feats
which he had performed.

Then smiled the good old man, and joyful said:
"'Tis ever thus--the youth of royal blood
Will not disgrace his lineage, but betray
By his superior mien and gallant deeds
From whence he sprung. 'Tis by the luscious fruit
We know the tree, and glory in its ripeness!"

Pírán could not resist paying a visit to the youth in his mountainous
retreat, and, happy to find him, beyond all expectation, distinguished
for the elegance of his external appearance, and the superior qualities