The Nāṣirī Generations 109.4

109.4

When the Shami forces perceived the extreme danger they were in, and that they were completely invested, besides the treachery of the ’Alawis of Misr, they all, of one accord, deliberated together, and discussed a plan of escape. Malik Asad-ud-Din and Salah-ud-Din told them, saying : “The plan of saving yourselves consists in staking your lives ; in victory or death.” They all, accordingly, agreed together ; and, placing their hands within the open grasp of confidence, and with full trust in the Most High and Holy God, they, having quite resigned themselves to sacrifice sweet life if necessary, suddenly and unawares, issued from the place and commenced fighting the infidels, as by orthodox law prescribed : and heavenly succour came to their aid ; and, according to the promise of Him who promised victory to the true believers, He sent succour, and the army of the infidels was put to the rout, and the defenders of the truth gained the victory; and from that place to the gate of Miṣr, and in the vicinity, and in the parts round about, they made heaps of the slain. Praise be unto God ! May victory ever be theirs !