The Nāṣirī Generations 291.1.2

291.1.2

He accordingly represented to the Khalifah saying: “Thank God, the Lord of the Faithful this day is at peace with all the different rulers. All of them are loyal and subservient to him; and, at all times, they pray for his prosperity and security, and in no way desire to encounter the forces of the Khilafat. In truth, the Khalifah is without rival and without adversary. Now it seems contrary to forethought and prudence, under these circumstances, that such an expenditure should go on every year from the treasury for the payment of so many troops; and, if the Lord of the Faithful will permit, I will despatch the various officers of the troops to different localities in the Khalifah’s dominions on civil duties, and the troops may be disbanded, whereby a great advantage will accrue to the finances, and a vast deal of treasure be saved.” This sounds like modern stump-oratory. At this time, 124,000 efficient cavalry were kept up by the Khalifah, and paid out of his treasury, without counting the contingents of the vassals of the Khilafat; and the unfortunate Khalifah, in his love of wealth, considering all this was for his advantage, permitted the traitor to carry out his scheme. After a short time this was completed, and the capital almost denuded of troops.