And the noble Mustaf′a, that moon-like light,
That to no man on earth I would e’er consent
In the bonds of marriage myself to unite,
Unless to a hero for prowess renown’d,
To one who should prove himself hardy in fight
Who in combat should meet me, and overcome,
And never betray the least weakness or fright.
My suitors assembled: I fought each in turn;
And I vanquish’d them all in our people’s sight:
Not a horseman among them attain’d his wish;