The Nāṣirī Generations 66.7

66.7

He reached the summit of the Sawah Pass, at the foot of which, on the ’Irak side, the rebels were encamped, and issued from it with a few followers; but, when his eye caught sight of the forces of the enemy, he reined in his horse, and came to a halt. A party of nobles, who had reached the spot where he was, he summoned to his side, and said to them:—We have come upon this gathering, but we have but a weak following, while the enemy are very numerous : what is it advisable to do ?” Some among the nobles replied, that whatsoever, in accordance with his Majesty’s opinion, he might be pleased to command would be most advisable ; but, if his Majesty would defer any movement until such time as the whole of the force should come up, and then dash upon them, it would be still more advisable. Others of the nobles said : — “ These people too are his Majesty’s servants: it is necessary that he should be pleased to show clemency towards, and have compassion on them, and give them intimation of the arrival of the imperial standards, so that the whole of them may be able to come and tender their services, and rest in safety under the shadow of the imperial protection and pardon.” In short, each one of the great lords and nobles made representation of such opinions as entered their minds,