1879.] or a History of Hamir, prince of Eanthamlor. 217 



tains, the earth and the hills. Why weep at the thought of parting, dear 

 uncle ? If we be separated from you, we are sure to meet you in yonder 

 heaven." 



The Rao kept quiet. The two brave heroes went to the females' 

 apartments. They bowed to Rani Asa. All the females, including the 

 maids of the princess burst, out a-crying. " It is time now, dear sons," 

 said Asa, with tears rolling down her cheeks, " when we shall rejoice to 

 see you married." The princes laughed. They cried. " Then fasten on 

 our heads the marriage-crowns, gracious queen, and we shall fight with 

 greater determination." The crowns were tied to their foreheads, and 

 holy threads wound round their arms. Then she blessed them. 



Afterwards the princes entered the temple of Siva. They worship- 

 ped the god and his son Ganesa ; prayed to them and touched their feet. 



When they returned from the temple, drums were beaten and colours 

 unfurled. The earth and heaven echoed. They then went to the Rao, 

 touched his feet, and exclaimed, " We shall meet you, dear uncle, no more 

 here on earth, but surely there in heaven. We shall die, certainly 

 die, but never be false to the virtues of our clan. Better far to give up 

 the love of life and kingdom, home and children, than to violate the honour 

 of one's own words. Farewell, Chitor, farewell ye hills and fort of Ran- 

 thambor, farewell this world of woe ; welcome victory, welcome glorious 

 death, and welcome eternal life and happiness." 



The princes and their train descended from the hill-fort. The beauty 

 of the Rajput shone forth ; and their spears glistened in the sun. Energy 

 was visible on every countenance. The god Siva forgot his contemplation, 

 and broke out into a wild fit of laughter. Many a handsome nymph and 

 frightful Jogiiii (she-devil) descended from the air to follow the troops. 

 Vultures and other birds, which feed on flesh, hovered along in thick 

 numbers. Many a devil, who dwelt on land and air, moved forward to 

 assemble there. The gods alighted for the protection of the princes and 

 remained with them unseen and unknown. The procession came to their 

 encampment. Drums gave the warning that within a few minutes there 

 would be fought a terrible engagement. 



Mmperor. — " What rejoicings are being made in the hill-fort ?" 



Vazir. — " Two young princes, sons of Hamir's younger brother, have 

 come to fight with us. They are strong-limbed, fully armed, blood-thirsty 

 and desperate. Both wear crowns of victory on their foreheads." 



'Emperor. — " Then those of our ranks who can fight with a lion can 

 venture to meet the princes face to face." 



Vazir. — " On our side the Mirs of Arabia are unequalled in bravery 

 and other martial talents. Their teeth are like those of a monkey, eyes like 



