1879.] or a History of Hamir, prince of Ranthambor. 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 Rado 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 As4 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 Jogini (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. 
Emperor.—‘ 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 
