The Book of Akbar 138.6

138.6

For the sake of protection, the practise of the holy warriors of Rūm was followed and a line of carts was arranged and connected by chains so that there might be cover for the matchlock-men and cannoniers, who were in front of the soldiers,—and Niẓāmu-d-dīn ‘Alī Khalīfa was appointed to command this line. Sulṭān Muḥammad Bakhshī, after arranging the commanders and officers in their posts, stood near the Emperor to hear his commands which were allied to Divine inspiration,—and despatched adjutants (tawācīān) and couriers to all sides who conveyed the orders to the officers. When the pillars of the army had been arranged in this excellent manner, a command was issued that no one should stir without orders from his position, nor without permission advance his foot into the battle. A watch of the day had passed when the fire of war was kindled. Verse. The soldiers bestirred themselves on each side, Day and night were commingled, On each side arose a war-cry, Two seas of hate foamed at the lips, The steel-shod hoofs of the chargers Reddened the ground with the blood of the brave. The world-holder mid his glorious camp Moved exultant on his prancing steed.