The Rashīdī History 146.1

146.1

In the spring of the year 918, the Shaiban Uzbeg (by which name is meant the followers of Shahi Beg Khan) had become absolute masters of Mavara-un-Nahr. The fear of them had sunk into every heart. That winter had been spent in the above-mentioned plot; in the spring they were busy devising further schemes, and thinking what they should next attempt, when suddenly news of Kasim Khán's advance [on Táshkand] was brought to them. Before Kasim Khan's arrival, however, the Khan went and plundered Ahangaran, one of the most important towns in Tashkand, and I accompanied him on this foray. When, at early morn, we came upon the people of Ahangarán, they retired with their wives and children and effects into a wood, and there took up a strong position. On one side of the wood was a large river, and on the other a deep ravine, which could only be approached by one road. They would not allow the pillagers to approach, and when the Khan heard of this he put me under the care of Khwaja Ali, saying: "Hold the bridle of Mirzá Haidar's horse, lest he get into some dangerous place." For I was still too young to distinguish good from evil or to keep myself out of danger. [Having entrusted me to Khwája Ali, the Khan placed himself at the head of his men and advanced on the enemy.] When he drew near them, he saw that their foot bowmen had made ambushes in every corner, and were ready to shoot. They had stretched their bows, washed their hearts of life—made straight, crooked, and the left, right.