History of the Khaljis, A.D. 1290–1320 c4.12

c4.12

'Alāuddīn had, no doubt, won the battle, but he had at the same time seen the mettle of the southerners. Before marching forward to his main objective Devagiri he addressed his officers and men and brought home to them the idea of the rough work that lay ahead. "In a country," said he, "where women do not retreat before us... I do not know what men would do to us on the field of battle."¹⁰ He not only frightened his troops with likely dangers but also tempted them by visualising to them the wealth that they would obtain in plunder and spoliation. The soldiers one and all swore for the second time, to fight and win. This done, 'Alāuddīn proceeded onward.