Siyar al-mutaʾakhkhirin 19.18.2

19.18.2

and these going in a body, represented to the two Radjas, "that the officer, who with a dozen of soldiers, had put himself upon his defence in those ruined houses, was no other than the brave Zin-el-abedin-qhan, a man of great character, and to whom every one of their servants, now present, was indebted for favours received, and for assistance most generously bestowed. They added, that several there present had likewise served under him; and that impressed with very high sentiments of respect and gratitude for his person, they supplicated for leave to go in a body, in order to bring that Commander away with all the honour and respect due to his merit; or for permission to share his fate, and to perish with him." The two Radjas, hearing the strain of the request, and being themselves in admiration at the man's behaviour, gave their consent, with permission to bring him under whatever conditions and stipulations he should himself desire. The officers and Commanders having received this consent, marched in a numerous body to that brave man's quarters; and there some of the principal ones having alighted at a distance, made a profound bow, and then advanced on foot in a friendly manner. Being within hearing, they exposed their errand. The officer surprised at this unexpected turn, passed many encomiums on their generous interposition, and returned his acknowledgments to the Almighty for his signal delivery;