fixed, and not to be removed, they changed their purpose, and became
obedient to her wishes, anxious to pursue any measure that might bring
Zál and their mistress together. Rúdábeh was delighted with this proof
of their regard.

It was spring-time, and the attendants repaired towards the
halting-place of Zál, in the neighborhood of the city. Their occupation
seemed to be gathering roses along the romantic banks of a pellucid
streamlet, and when they purposely strayed opposite the tent of Zál, he
observed them, and asked his friends--why they presumed to gather roses
in his garden. He was told that they were damsels sent by the moon of
Kábulistán from the palace of Mihráb to gather roses, and upon hearing
this his heart was touched with emotion. He rose up and rambled about
for amusement, keeping the direction of the river, followed by a servant
with a bow. He was not far from the damsels, when a bird sprung up from
the water, which he shot, upon the wing, with an arrow. The bird
happened to fall near the rose-gatherers, and Zál ordered his servant to
bring it to him. The attendants of Rúdábeh lost not the opportunity, as
he approached them, to inquire who the archer was. "Know ye not,"
answered the servant, "that this is Ním-rúz, the son of Sám, and also
called Dustán, the greatest warrior ever known." At this the damsels
smiled, and said that they too belonged to a person of distinction--and
not of inferior worth--to a star in the palace of Mihráb. "We have come
from Kábul to the King of Zábulistán, and should Zál and Rúdábeh be of
equal rank, her ruby lips may become acquainted with his, and their
wished-for union be effected." When the servant returned, Zál was
immediately informed of the conversation that had taken place, and in
consequence presents were prepared.

They who to gather roses came--went back