but we have but a weak following, while the enemy are very numerous: what is it advisable to do?" Some among the nobles replied, that whatsoever, in accordance with his Majesty's opinion, he might be pleased to command would be most advisable; but, if his Majesty would defer any movement until such time as the whole of the force should come up, and then dash upon them, it would be still more advisable. Others of the nobles said:—"These people too are his Majesty's servants: it is necessary that he should be pleased to show clemency towards, and have compassion on them, and give them intimation of the arrival of the imperial standards, so that the whole of them may be able to come and tender their services, and rest in safety under the shadow of the imperial protection and pardon." In short, each one of the great lords and nobles made representation of such opinions as entered their minds.
Sult̤ān Sanjar [then] turned his face towards the Amīr-i-C͟hā-ūsh, who was also Marshal of his retinue, and said: "C͟hā-ūsh, what is it advisable to do?" The C͟hā-ūsh dismounted from his horse, and, bowing his head to the ground, repeated the following lines:—
"Great monarch! we ought to give battle:
We should close with the foe.
All the fierce lions of the forest
Must be brought into the field,
All the huge elephants of war
Should doubtless be brought into the fray.
It is the day of battle: it is meet to engage.
It is the hour for action: it is well to be doing.
If thou wouldst render the kingdom stable,
It is essential that the sword should be plied."
The Sult̤ān replied:—"It is necessary to act as the C͟hā-ūsh advises;" and at once, without any further delay, with as many cavalry as had come up, Sult̤ān Sanjar dashed upon the rebel forces. Ḳarājah, the cup-bearer, and Mas'ūd of 'Irāķ were both taken prisoners, and the forces of this gathering were defeated and put to the rout, and the countries of 'Irāḳ and Āẓarbāijān were recovered anew.
The Sult̤ān returned to K͟hurāsān; and it was a constant practice with him to pass the hot season at Buk͟hārā, and the winter at Marw of S͟hāh-i-Jahān. It so happened, one year, that he remained longer than was his wont at Marw.
