How the Sorcery of Zúrán and the Jew in the Matter of Mahbúd was discovered, and how both were slain by Command of Núshírwán

The Shah, the world-lord, purposed, as it chanced, To hunt the wolf and bade that many a steed, Used in the chase, should pass before his eyes, Scanned them, and saw the brand-mark of Mahbúd. His cheeks flamed at those Arab horses, love Still had a place within him, and he burned. He wept for pain and with heart sorely seared Recalled to mind Mahbúd, and thus he said :— “ How much the wicked Dív made to transgress That man of counsel and of high degree ! With that devotion and that rectitude Why did his spirit seek the path of loss ? 1 The Master of the world alone can tell The hidden truth beneath the outward show.”