The Chachnāma (Fatḥnāma-yi Sind) 31.2.7

31.2.7

Wherever you meet the enemy, in order to give them battle, let the battle-field be an open plain, so that foot-soldiers may move freely in it in fighting against foot-soldiers, and horsemen against horsemen. Above all, when you are engaged in fight put your trust in God’s kindness. Catch hold of that ring of the chain firmly and you need have no fear of a fall. Then wait patiently, and see what the Divine Providence and fate brings out from behind the curtain of mystery, and what orders the king passes (for your guidance). If they send a message to you asking whether you would cross the Mehrán or whether they should, give them no choice or authority. Tell them that you would cross the river—first, so that your enemy may be overawed, and they may know that if the army of Islám was not sufficiently strong and powerful it would not venture to meet them on their own ground. As for your own men, let not the Arab troops that are under you entertain any hope of returning, and let them not turn their face from battle. They should fight with the utmost zeal and depend entirely upon the kindness of God for the issue. They should be fond of battle and fight manfully and make a firm stand. They should be true and faithful in warring against the enemy and in co-operating with you. Then only the great and glorious God will be pleased with them. You should select a place for crossing the river, where it would be possible to put a strong and stable bridge, and make your passage.