The Nāṣirī Generations 149.2.8

149.2.8

As the report of ’Ala-ud-Din’s wittiness of temperament, and quickness of intellect, was much talked about at that period, and had become famous, and Sultan Sanjar had heard a great deal about it, either the next day, or a few days after, he sent for him, treated him with honour, and set him at liberty [from his gyves]. A salver of precious gems had been placed near the masnad of the imperial throne, and that was bestowed upon ’Ala-ud-Din, who arose and made his obeisance, and spoke these lines, befitting the circumstance. The following is the quatrain: — ‘‘In the rank of battle the Shah took me, but did not kill, Notwithstanding, of a verity, I was full worthy of being slain. A casket of precious gems he bestow’d upon me : In such wise his mercy [was], and his bounty such.”