The Nāṣirī Generations 137.4

137.4

Amir Banji, son of Naharan, entered into a covenant with that merchant of the Bani-Isra'il, and said:—“When thou teachest me the usages of politeness, and instructest me in the rules of conduct and demeanour necessary to be observed before princes, and in paying homage at the Court of the Khilafat, I will fulfil the whole of thy requests, and fully satisfy thy desires.” This covenant having been duly settled on both sides, the merchant of the Bani-Isra'il commenced to instruct Amir Banji in the polite usages necessary to be observed before princes, and at the Courts of sovereigns, and the requisite forms of respect and reverence needed at the Khalifah's Court. The merchant likewise began to put in order and make ready a dress for him, consisting of a tunic, a cap, boots, and breeches, and to perfect him in riding and in the mode of wearing his arms, in such wise, that his rival, Shis, son of Bahram, knew nothing whatever of all this [preparation] until they arrived at the Khalifah's capital. Shis, son of Bahram, proceeded thither just as he was, in the short Ghurian garments which he was accustomed to wear at home, whilst Amir Banji, son of Naharan, entered the Khalifah’s capital in a dress befitting an Amir, and becoming a great personage.