History of Mediaeval Hindu India (being a History of India from 600 to 1200 A.D.) v1.c13.10

v1.c13.10

“The national guard are heroes of choice valour, and as the profession is hereditary, they become adepts in military tactics. In peace they guard the sovereign’s residence and in war they become the intrepid vanguard. The army is composed of foot, horse, chariot andt elephant soldiers. The war elephant is covered with coa of mail and his tusks are provided with sharp barbs. On him rides the commander-in-chief and there is a soldier on each side to manage the elephant. The chariot in which the officer sits is drawn by four horses while infantry guard it on both sides. The infantry go lightly into action and are men of intrepid valour. They bear a large shield and carry a long spear. Some are armed with swords or daggers and dash to the front line of the advancing battle. They are perfect experts withall the implements of war having been drilled in them for generations.” Watters’ Vol. I p. 171.