The Nāṣirī Generations 170.4.3

170.4.3

The Sultan-i-Ghazi replied: “For years past I have been seeking such an encounter as this. I shall not be found to hold back: to-morrow, at dawn, by the guidance of the Most High, we will do battle face to face, and see unto whom Almighty God will bestow the victory. I shall at least have acquired the merit of having fought for the faith as by creed enjoined.” Malik 'Izz-ud-Din, Husain, son of Khar-mil, perceiving that the mind of the Sultan-i-Ghazi was imbued with this intention, was convinced that the Sultan gave vent to these words by virtue of unbounded reliance in the true faith, and the ardour of piety; [for regard had to be given to the fact] on the other hand, that the host of the infidels which had come upon them was countless, and all fresh and calm, while the Musalman army was wearied by the march from Khwarazm, and the horses were emaciated, and would not be strong enough to withstand the enemy; and he withdrew from the service of the Sultan, and, with the whole of his retinue and followers, to the number of five thousand horse, set out, at night, towards Juzarwan, and almost all the troops [also] whose horses were weak and emaciated departed.