_ 1879.] or a History of Hamir, prince of Ranthambor. 245 
to kill an emperor because he gives food to thousands of souls. Besides, 
Ala-uddin calls himself ‘ master of the world.’ ” 
Then was the emperor taken into the presence of Hamir, who said 
“ Emperor, return to Dehli safe.” 
The next moment Al4-uddin, with the remainder of his forces, encamp- 
ed four miles behind his former camp, in the direction of his capital. Con- 
siderable booty fell to the hands of the Chohén troops—tents, furniture, 
ensigns, weapons and money. All the wounded, irrespective of their caste, 
were taken special care of, and their wounds dressed. They were then sent 
each to his own country. 
The sweet peals of Dzndhavt sounded the march. Full of joy Hamir 
started to return to his fort. He was too glad to remember what he had said 
to the princess As4, his favourite wife. Some soldiers in the front line had 
‘the imperial colours in their hands. The eager princess saw them from the 
fort, and, thinking that victory had gone to the Musalmans, committed a 
dreadful massacre and killed one and all, preferring death to ignominy. 
When the Rao entered the fort, he heard of the massacre, and the next 
moment he saw before him the lifeless body of his dear queen, that of his 
daughter Dewéal, and those of the maids lying on the ground, with streams 
of blood gushing out from the wounds. ‘Then he called to mind the words 
of Siva. He resolved to cut off his own head and offer it at the feet of 
the god. He informed his Vazirs, officers and Rdwats of his determina- 
tion. 
“ Patience, patience, royal master” prayed a hero. “ Do not shorten 
your life. What was fated to be, has come to pass. Long live you in 
glory under the protection of Mahadeva. Grant our prayer and request. 
All your warriors join their hands and entreat you. Do not, mighty Rado, 
behead yourself.” 
Hamir exclaimed.—“‘ Hear, my brave heroes, partners of my labours 
and pains, hear with attention. The lion enjoys carnal pleasures but for 
once. The word which has once come out of the mouth of a virtuous 
man can never be withdrawn. The plantain yields its fruit only once. The 
oil which is rubbed over the head of a woman on the occasion of her mar- 
Yiage can never be rubbed again in her life. And the firm resolution of 
Hamir of doing what he has once said can never be shaken.’’* 
Hamir bade adieu to all present, ordering them to go to Chitor to the 
service of the prince Ratan. All alone the great Rdo stood before Maha- 
deva and offered his own head to the god. The apsaras descended from 
* fae fang, eau Fae, FS TACHI | 
fH te, SAC eaay at Serax | 
HH 
