Firishta's History (Gulshan-i Ibrāhīmī) 298.4

298.4

He chose the latter resource, and gallantly opposed the infidel Tartars, many of whom he slew with his own hand; but at length his army being broken, he retired with seven hundred horse. He was again pursued, and again defended himself for several hours in the most gallant manner; but was at last compelled to seek safety in flight, his horse being scarcely able to support him. In his retreat he joined his sons, and mounting a fresh charger, once more checked the pursuing enemy; at last, on being quite overpowered by numbers, he retired fighting desperately till he reached the bank of the river Indus, where, having taken off his armour and secured his royal canopy, he swam the stream with only seven followers; and on the opposite bank he caused his canopy to be erected in sight of the Tartar army. It is said Chungiz Khan came to the bank of the river to witness the spectacle, and expressed his admiration of his character, saying, "Julal-ood-Deen is indeed the lion of battle, and the crocodile of the waves." Some of his troops having volunteered to cross and seize him, Chungiz Khan rebuked them, and said, "No! such a hero should only fall in the heat of action." He remained concealed in the neighbourhood of the river for two or three days; and having collected between fifty and sixty of his followers, who had escaped without their arms, he attacked a post consisting of about two hundred men, who, unconscious of any enemy near, were regaling themselves with a feast.