The Book of Akbar 42.1

42.1

(See Vol. V. p. 345.) Two hours before nightfall they fell in with a brahman, who informed them that the enemy with a large force had halted in the town of Sarnal, on the bank of the Sakanir, about four kos distant. On receiving this information, the Emperor held a council, and Jalal Khan urged that, as their own forces had not come up, and the enemy was in great strength, it was inexpedient to fight by day : they should either wait for reinforcements, or fall upon the enemy by night. But this sensible and prudent counsel did not please the Emperor, who said it was unworthy of brave warriors, and that it was advisable to make a dashing attack at once. “ Let each one of us,” said he, “single out his adversary and bring him down.” * * * Trusting in heaven, they went on their course, till they came in sight of Sarnal. His Majesty went on a little in advance, to the bank of the Mahindari, to arrange his men. He gave orders for them to buckle on their armour ; and when he thus prepared for the assault, he had not with him more than forty men.