History of the Khaljis, A.D. 1290–1320 c6.23

c6.23

Ruknuddīn had little hope of success, still he arrayed his ranks to give battle to his cousin. But just on the eve of the engagement, the left wing of his rickety forces openly deserted to the enemy and his fate was sealed for ever. Finding his own life in jeopardy he left the capital secretly through the Ghaznī Gate with the queen-mother and some well-wishers like Aḥmad Chap and Alghū.¹³ The wretched plight of the royal family drew sympathy from all high and low and for a few days the people of Delhī felt very unhappy.¹⁴