History of the Parsis : including their manners, customs, religion and present position : with coloured and other illustrations : in two volumes

182 AISTORYV OF THE PARSIS. [CHAP. Iv.

Answer: “Yes, I have consented.”

The representative of the father of the bride is then asked, “‘ Have you promised to give for ever this girl of your family in marriage to (naming the husband) with honest thoughts, good words, and for the increase of goodness ?”

Answer: “Yes, I have promised.”

The following question is then put to those about to be married :—“ Have you both consented to act according to your promise with honest heart till the end of your lives 2”

Answer: “ Yes, we have.”

After these interrogatories and answers both the “dasturs” or priests deliver to the husband and wife, as we may now call them, a short address containing good, sound, and practical advice, which if attended to would greatly benefit the bridegroom through his career in life in all its different aspects, whether social, political, or commercial. The names of some of the departed worthies of ancient Persia are mentioned, whose example they are advised to follow. We give below the text, which will be read with interest.

By the helping name of Ahura Mazda may your happiness increase.

May you be brilliant.

Try to do good deeds.

Be increasing.

Be victorious.

Learn to do deeds of piety.