The history of Tamerlan the great taken out of Alhacent, the emperour's historian, and some other manuscripts / by the Lord de Sainctyon ; now Englished by M. D'Assigny.

CHAP. III. The War proclaim'd by Tamerlan against the King of China, but stopt by the Revolt of a Calix, a great Lord of Tartary; his defeat, and Exe∣cution.

WHen Tamerlan had privately made suffi∣cient preparations for the Expedition that he had promis'd his Uncle, not only for the reasons already mentioned, but also because it tend∣ed to the Publick Peace, to imploy the Subjects of so great an Empire in a Forreign War; for other∣wise either their numbers, or their stirring disposi∣tions, might have proved prejudicial to the State, every one was surprised to see that the Cloud that had been long a gathering, was going to fall upon China. The King of this large Country, who is named the Off-spring of the Sun, expected no such matter: But to acquaint him with the reasons of

such great preparations, Embassadours were sent to him, to require a restitution of all the Lands, E∣states, and Feedings, which he had taken from the Tartars, contrary to the last Treaties. These Lands are lying beyond a River called Tachii, and beyond that famous Wall which bound both Empires, and which the King of China caus'd to be built to secure himself and people from the frequent Inroads of the warlike and restless Tartarians. What answer this proud Monarch would make to this Embassie was known before; therefore all the Troops were commanded to advance and hasten to their general Rendezvous.

The Parthians were to meet at Hirdas of Baschir, where the whole Army was to joyn them; but the Tartarians were ordered to gather together in the Wilderness of Ergimul, where Tamerlan with all his Forces was to come to them at a certain day.

The Grand Cham's Army had two hundred thou∣sand fighting men, all well disciplin'd and inur'd to labour and pains. In this Army besides were seve∣ral considerable Lords, and worthy Commanders, who had render'd themselves famous in many En∣counters and Wars, in which the Emperour, before the decline of his Age, had been ingag'd, and by which he had inlarg'd the bounds of his great Em∣pire.

When Tamerlan's Embassadours were return'd out of China, they brought this insolent answer, that this proud Prince, puff'd up with a strange conceit of his own power, wonder'd that the King of the Parthians was so bold to make War upon him; that he judg'd it more reasonable for him to rest satisfied with that which he could take away from him with his mighty Army; that he regarded

not the progress that Tamerlan had made with his Forces, nor their successes already, they were too weak to be compared with the numerous Armies of the Chineses.

This proud Answer caus'd all deliberation to cease. Tamerlan instantly sent a Messenger to the Emperour, to let him understand the posture of Affairs, and this vain-glorious Answer of the King of China. In the mean while, he gave all necessary orders for Provisions and Ammunitions to be sent to the Rendezvous of the Army from all parts, and for the Tartars Army to advance forward, with an intention to joyn both his Armies in few days. But before his departure, he was willing to take his leave of the King his Father, and recom∣mend his just Cause and Expedition to his Prayers.

This good Parent being sensibly mov'd at the goodness and piety of his Son, imbrac'd him seve∣ral times. After many hearty wishes for his pro∣sperous Expedition, he spake to him in these terms, Farewel my Son, I shall see you no more: I feel my self departing to my final rest; I am going to exchange this perishing life, so full of misery, for ano∣ther more happy. Then he took his Royal Ring from off his Finger, and gave it to his Son, without en∣quiring into the causes of his Wars. The old Fa∣ther call'd Odmar, and spoke to him to recommend his Sons concerns to his care and fidelity, in a man∣ner so full of gravity and goodness, that he seem'd to have something in him more than humane.

After this the Prince return'd to Samarcande, where the Empress his Spouse was, whom he in∣tended to carry with him in the wars, according to the Custom of that Nation. And as he was natural∣ly very thankful for the services that he had recei∣ved,

he visited the Tomb of his faithful servant Haly, and according to the manner of his Law, he caus'd prayers to be said, during three days entire, for the peaceable rest of his Soul. Finally, he gave order to the Government of his Kingdom, and for the preservation of the Frontier Towns, and committed all to the inspection of Samay, a man of great worth and experience, who had tu∣tor'd him in his young days. Tamerlan could not easily forget such kind of services, he had a parti∣cular respect for those that taught him Vertue; he kept for them as much affection, as if he had been still under their tuition. This generous inclinati∣on, so full of goodness, made him highly reveren∣ced and beloved of his People. He went from Sa∣marcande to Hirdas of Baschir, where his Army was quarter'd, consisting only of one hundred thousand Foot, and fifty thousand Horse. There he gave orders to the rest of the Army, to march as soon as he should send them word.

His greatest dependency was upon the Forces of the Grand Cham his Uncle, who mightily incou∣rag'd this War. But when he was at the Rendez∣vous, he was forc'd to make a stop, because of his indisposition, occasion'd chiefly through the change of the Air, as his Physicians imagin'd.

In the mean while the Army of the Grand Cham was upon the march, under the Command of Ca∣libes; and for fear the rumour of his Distemper should cause any disturbance in the Empire, unto which he was newly promoted, he was careful to inform by Messengers, very often, his Uncle, of the condition and temper of his Body.

He had good cause to suspect, that a certain great Lord of the Country, named Calix, was nei∣ther

his Friend, nor content with his Promotion, because he had not been with him, to acknowledge and render him homage, as the other Lords of the Empire. Though at that time men discours'd of Calix, in a manner, that was able to beget a jealou∣sie in Tamerlan, his good disposition would not suffer him to take any notice of it, neither did he think it convenient to attempt any thing during his Uncles Life, or trouble the Peace of an Empire newly put into his hands. Some thought that what he had done was out of policy, to oblige more strongly to himself the hearts of his new Subjects, who had already a love for him; and to render him∣self more dreadful to those that were angry at his Promotion, he had craftily suffered this Cloud to gather together, and the beginnings of a Civil War to ripen, that he might gain to himself more ho∣nour, credit, and reputation, by dissipating and de∣stroying it; that he was able to stifle it in the Cra∣dle, for Empires are gotten and kept by the affe∣ctions of the Souldiery, by treating them well and civilly, as his manner was; and that it was easie to disappoint such as are of a stirring nature with a little patience, for in time they may be destroyed in divers Expeditions, or they may be removed in∣to several quarters, far from the places where they have credit, or they may be imployed in long and tedious services, where they may alter their minds, and the power of doing mischief.

In the mean while, Tamerlan's delays and long a∣bode in one place was subject to divers censures, some thought it was caus'd only by his distemper, others better inform'd, imagin'd that it was the product of a faithful advice, and good knowledge of that which was acting against him, which

doubtless would break out as soon as he should be on the other side of the Mountains of Pasanfu. Calix expected this with great longing: as soon as he had understood that the Forces of the Grand Cham were beyond the River of Meau that runs on the other side of the Mountains, and that they were incamp'd at Bouprou, he thought it high time to discover his design.

For this purpose he gather'd together his chief and most intimate Friends, declaring to them, that now the time was come to disappoint all the inten∣tions of the Parthian, who purposed to subdue them, and keep them under his Command; that seeing their Emperour was so unadvis'd of his own head, without the approbation of those who ought to have a share in such Elections, they for their parts should not neglect so fair an opportunity of redeeming their precious Liberties; that Tamer∣lan was diseased, the Grand Cham aged, the greatest part of his Army at a distance, and that there could not be offer'd a fitter opportunity to set on foot such a design; that their Enterprise was so likely to succeed, that as soon as they should set footing in the Province of Cattay, that the whole Country would declare for him, because his Father had go∣vern'd it many years, and because the Inhabitants, not knowing Tamerlan, would believe all that he should tell them; that the Province of Zagatay was at a great distance from them, that Tamerlan would have much ado with the powerful Enemy who had mock'd his Embassie sent to prevent the War▪ therefore their Enterprise would doubtless succeed happily, when he should have sent to assure the Great Cham, that their intentions were not against his Person or Government, with promises not to

forget the Allegiance and Fidelity which they had sworn to keep for him, their armed posture being only to shake off the yoak of the Parthians, their ancient and unreconcileable Enemies, whose Ty∣ranny they would never be perswaded to endure. Moreover, he assured them, that the Emperours decrepitage, and weak body, loving ease and rest, would not intermeddle in this quarrel, because he had no Heirs-male to succeed him: And that it was easie to destroy Tamerlan's Army, by waiting for him at his return, and besieging of the Streights of Tenduits, after his Forces should be weakned by the Encounters with the Chineses, for then they would endeavour to retreat into the Province of Zagatay, out of which it was no ••••ficult matter to keep them, by besieging those ••••ow passages.

Calix's Speech had a good colour, it was streng∣then'd with many Reasons and Insinuations. He had spent a whole year in winning the peoples fa∣vour, that he might be able to use them in due time. He prepar'd all manner of Ammunitions, and had spar'd no cost nor labour to compass his design. But though all things were carried secret∣ly, without any noise, Tamerlan had intelligence of all these practises against his Person. At first he made light of it, or seem'd so to do, wisely con∣cealing all the reports of the Rebellion of this am∣bitious Fool, that it might break out to the eyes of the World, and render Calix more guilty, and himself less blameable, by bearing Arms in his Uncles Dominions, whose displeasure he was loath to draw upon himself. It is very likely that he could have prevented this mischief in its begin∣ning, but he had good cause to deal otherwise. His long abode at Cachobach, near a Months time,

because of his indisposition, as was pretended, had a good reason.

In the mean while, the Tartarians Army, com∣manded by Calibes, hearing of the mighty prepa∣rations and intentions of the Chineses to assault them, murmured because they were idle, and let slip the opportunity of shewing their courages to their Enemy, and their new Prince. The Comman∣ders endeavoured to pacifie and quiet the Souldiers martial disposition, with news that came at every foot of some unexpected obstacle that staid Ta∣merlan from joyning with them. It was easie to i∣magine, that his quick and speedy temper in exe∣cuting his resolutions, was stopt by the knowledge of Calix's Conspiracy•••• and that he delayed the time only, that he might have a favourable occa∣sion to punish him: Nevertheless, he was willing that Calix should believe, that he was pass'd be∣yond the Mountains, to assault the famous Wall de∣fended by all the Armies of the Chineses; for that purpose he gave an express Command, that care should be taken that none might forsake the Reer, to give notice where he was with his Camp.

This wise proceeding succeeded well; for Calix imagining that his Enemy was at a vast distance en∣countring with the Chineses, though he was on this side of the Mountains, cast off all dissimulation, and with as much indiscretion as he had hitherto shewn wisdom in his secresie, commanded all his Forces to march against the Prince, to surprise and intangle him. But all this while Tamerlan seem'd to be asleep, and expected nothing else, that he might give a Check to the ambition of this Foo••••. He went forward with his Army a days journey towards Calibes, unto whom he had dispatch'd a

Messenger with the news of this Rebellion. Ta∣merlan called together his Council, and Chief Offi∣cers of both Armies, and spoke to them in this manner.

Tamerlan's Speech to his Council of Officers.

I Am perswaded, my Friends, that you will all ad∣vise me to set by the Enterprise against China, and endeavour the quenching of these Flames that are kin∣dled in the Bowels of our Country, that I may preserve that Kingdom where you desire that I should Reign, and where all the faithful servants of my Lord and Ʋncle have received me with applause, and expressions of joy. I am in duty bound to help him to punish Calix for his Rebellion and Insolency: He alone hath resisted the Em∣perours intentions, and refus'd to acknowledge me, and yield to my Promotion to the Empire of Tartary: But we must also think at the same time of resisting our For∣reign Enemy, whose vast Armies are as likely to assault us, as to oppose our attempts.

It is very likely that the Chineses are made the bol∣der by Calix's Rebellion, with whom it is probable they hold Correspondency, and to whom they may have pro∣mis'd assistance and protection, with a design to divert our Forces, which they saw were all coming against their Country, to re-take what they had usurped upon us. Therefore, my Friends, I think it best, that whiles I shall go back to chastise the ambitious Rebel, Calibes should stay upon the Frontiers with five and twenty thousand of the Parthians Cavalry, and forty thousand of the Emperours, and with one hundred thousand Foot to hin∣der the Chineses from breaking into our Country. I shall leave at his Command all the provisions of Victuals and Arms which we have gathered for our Army, and put

into some place of security our Artillery and warlike Engines. In the mean while, I will march back with the remainder of the Army against Calix, and order Samay to meet me with fifty thousand Horse; and when I shall see convenient, I will stay to wait for the Em∣perours Commands.

This Discourse of Tamerlan was well lik'd of by all the chief Officers of the Council, though some that had not understood this Rebellion were of a contrary judgment: They said, that it was a te∣merity to ingage in a War with the King of China, in such a time when a Civil Dissention breaks out like a Cancer that consumes the Entrails of the Kingdom, and disappoints all foreign designs; that it was wisdom to secure the Heart of a Country, before one attempts the Conquest of another. But these persons were not well acquainted with the Princes Secrets; for the long knowledge of the re∣bellious practices of Calix, had made him keep up an Army always ready to march at his first motion. They knew not that Tamerlan apparently displeas'd at this Rebellion, was not really angry to go into his new Empire with weapons in his hands, for a Cause that his Uncle judg'd to be just, because this would gain to him the affection of the Souldiers, and give him a new possession of, and Title to the Empire that had been given him, and because this tended to the security of his Dominions for the future; for by the punishment of this Rebel, others would ever be discouraged from making new at∣tempts.

We must confess that Tamerlan's wisdom ap∣pear'd as well by this separation of the Tartarian Army, as by obliging Calibes to stay upon the

Borders, though he knew very well that this Lord was desirous to follow him, to be an Eye-witness of the event of this Civil War, that he might go∣vern himself according to the good or bad suc∣cess.

The Prince of Tanais, who had an eye upon Calix, and without whose advice he never did any thing, commanded the Van of the Parthians Army that was left behind. Thus both Armies were di∣vided. The King of China was a long while with∣out understanding any thing of this inward Rebel∣lion: He thought the whole Army of the Parthians and Tartarians had been at hand; for Tamerlan had taken great care to stop the passages, that no News could pass. This favour'd Tamerlan's designs not a little.

The Army where his Person was, marched back with diligence, and great hopes of success. The Van, led by Odmar, staid upon the borders of those Provinces where Calix had his Agents, until the Prince had sent to acquaint the old Emperour with all things that had passed. But when the Messen∣ger was return'd, he understood that the Emperour was desperately sick, and that the whole Empire was inclineable to Rebellion. This News made him leave his Infantry behind, and to draw with more haste nearer to the Enemy with all his Ca∣valry. His coming was to him unexpected.

Calix had been with his Army of one hundred thousand men before the great and proud City of Cambalu, the Metropolis of the Province of Catay. The Inhabitants had open'd their Gates, and re∣ceived him with as much joy, as if he had been their lawful Soveraign. They were so blind and foolish, as to send some of their own Citizens,

with the Deputies which the Rebel had dispatch'd to the Court held then at Quinsay. They had Or∣ders, in his name, to assure the Emperour of his o∣bedience and fidelity, and with studied expressi∣ons to impose upon him, by colouring his Revolt with the hatred against the Parthians, and their so∣lemn League which they had lately made never to own Tamerlan for their Prince. They beseeched his Majesty to substitute in his place Calix, that their glorious Empire might not be inslaved to a Stranger of Zagatay.

At this same time there was news secretly flying, that the Prince of Parthia was already upon the borders of Catay, and that he was followed by the best Troops of the Empire. Calix could never stifle this Rumour, to keep on his side such as had too unadvisedly ingaged themselves in this Quar∣rel, out of a perswasion that Tamerlan would not be able to return in eight Months from his Expedi∣tion into China, whatever success and happiness he met with. Calix, with all his subtle fetches, could not work upon their minds already possessed with the fear of the punishment which their Rebellion had deserved: They were as much surpris'd and affrighted, as are a company of Scholars when their Master finds them quarrelling, and in a disor∣der, contrary to their duty. At this time the Tar∣tarians were Courting of Calix at Cambalu, where he received the Homages of the Provinces that yielded to him. But this unexpected coming of Tamerlan was a dreadful news that dasht all their joys; some of them were asham'd of their sudden and inconsiderate Rebellion, which so much the more deserved a punishment, because it was acted against their lawful Lord, and against the greatest

Captain of the World, whose Vertue was worthy to command not only the Empire of Tartary, but also of the whole World. The rumour of his march spread every where amongst the people, and as the Moon, which never continues two days the same, this report increas'd and decreas'd, ac∣cording to the affections of the Authors and En∣tertainers of it. But this caus'd the most passionate persons for Calix's Interest to grow cold, and al∣ter their intentions. The Inhabitants also of this great City gather'd together in Companies, some of five hundred, others of a thousand, others of two thousand, to consult, but not able to come to any setled resolution, for they were afraid of Ta∣merlan's just displeasure, having incens'd him by their baseness and infidelity; for they had been sworn unto him, and by the Emperours Command had acknowledged him for their Lord. They said amongst themselves, that he was lawfully descended from so many Monarchs who had reigned over them very justly; therefore their troubled Consciences fan∣cied him at their Gates, ready to punish them for having rashly open'd them to a Rebel, who had plotted against his lawful Prince.

Whiles these people were thus justly troubled with several disquieting apprehensions, Tamerlan expecting the Forces that he had sent for out of his own Kingdom of Zagatay, drew nearer by degrees to the City of Cambalu. His Army had pass'd Cain∣du, and march'd strait to Calalia. The Inhabi∣tants of Cambalu had been deceived with the de∣ceitful promises of Calix; and as many persons do, they had flattered themselves with large expe∣ctations of prosperity, without thinking how de∣ceitful the affairs of the World are, and how sub∣ject

to change. When therefore they saw the Prince upon their borders, they were mightily per∣plex'd with fear and displeasure for their Rebelli∣on. As soon as Calix understood it, he went out of the City, with a firm resolution to fight Tamer∣lan with all his Army. He gathered his men from all parts, intending to try the fortune of a Battel. At the same time he received ill news from the Court, that the Emperour was so far from being pleased with his undertaking, that he had com∣manded his Souldiers, in considerable numbers, to gather together out of all the Garrisons, and to march to help his Nephew, unto whom in his most desperate sickness, when he thought to have left the world, he had sent his Imperial Ring, giving out an express Command, that all his Subjects should obey him as his own Person.

This news, together with that of Tamerlan's ap∣proach, caused him to hasten to hazard all in a Battel: For that intent, he took out of Cambalu fifty thousand men, partly Inhabitants, and partly Garrison Souldiers, plac'd there by the Emperour. This Garrison was in number thirty thousand: Calix had won them by the means of their Officers and Governours, who were of his Party, and had consented to deliver up into his hands this great City.

When all his Souldiers were together in a Body, they amounted to fourscore thousand Horse, and one hundred thousand Foot. His design was so well ordered, that if the Moscovites, whom he had sollicited under-hand, had answer'd his expectati∣ons, and enter'd into the Province of Zagatay▪ to stop the march of the Parthians Army, in whom Tamerlan had the greatest confidence, it is certain

that Calix might have put this Prince to a non-plus▪ chiefly because he had the City of Cambalu to assist and favour him. It is therefore very dangerous for such as govern to anger great ones, or not to mind their behaviour. If their displeasure be in∣couraged by their Credit and Interest in the Pro∣vinces, they are more inclineable to stir and cause disturbances.

We must here acknowledge, that the Emperour of Moscovy was a great Friend to Tamerlan in this occasion, by refusing to assist a rebellious Subject a∣gainst his lawful Prince. He had in vain endea∣voured to disswade him from his wicked purpose, and reduce him to obedience. Odmar much taken with this just proceeding, was wont to speak of it often to Tamerlan, so that he was an useful Instru∣ment to preserve friendship between these two Princes.

As soon as the Succours of the Parthians were come to Tamerlan, he march'd with diligence a∣gainst Calix. He understood, by the means of two thousand Horse whom he had sent before, that the Enemy came to meet him in good order. This news caus'd him to detach two thousand more to seise upon the passage of a River named Brior, as well to secure his Provisions, as to stop there, and suffer the Rebels to think upon their fault, which either a little time would infallibly call to mind, or the want of food, unto which he hoped to reduce them, or at least to put them in disorder. In this particular, Rebellious Armies differ much from Royal Armies, where Order and Discipline joyn hand in hand, and preserve Union and Plenty.

In this march of the Prince against Calix, he forgot not the Command of the Emperour his Un∣cle,

to make a notable example of this Rebel, and of his Confederates, to secure by that means the peace of his Empire, and of his days.

This consideration made him act with caution, that he might not miscarry in any thing. He saw that his own Army did increase every day by the arrival of new Levies from all parts, whereas the Enemies Army wanted already Provisions, because they could scarce have any from Cambalu, a Wil∣derness lying between the City and the Camp, and certain Mountains at the end of the Wilderness, where a Subject of the Grand Cham commanded, named Cangi. This Lord had promis'd to let the Provisions pass when Calix was in his Territories, but as soon as he was at a distance, he refused it, and took all that came into his hands; he had a greater power to perform this, because Tamerlan had sent him four thousand Horse to guard him and his Country.

This grievous accident, which Calix never could foresee, caus'd him to resolve upon a Battel: But Tamerlan understanding his wants, and the cause of his speedy resolution, had seized all the Passes and Fords of the River of Brior for his own Army; it had fourteen miles behind it a fat and a plentiful Country, besides the Salt Lake, and the River of Ostan, which was beyond: so that he could stay till the Enemy did assault him; for this wise and expe∣rienced Prince judg'd it advantagious to him to suffer the Enemy to spend himself, and his Provisi∣ons by degrees.

The two Armies stood two Months looking up∣on one another: All this time was spent in light skirmishes. When Calix understood the intent of Tamerlan, he resolv'd to return back to Cambalu,

where he knew that he should have all things in a∣bundance; and the rather, because he understood that some practices were acting against him there. As soon as the Prince perceiv'd it, he pass'd over the River with all his Army, which consisted of one hundred and fifty thousand Horse, and two hun∣dred thousand Foot. After that he had consulted his chief Officers, he resolved to try the fortune of a Battel.

This resolution was grounded chiefly upon two reasons; first, because he was afraid that Calix would return, and spend the Winter at Cambalu, where he should be forc'd to go and fight him. This would cause the total destruction of that fa∣mous City, for he doubted not of the Victory: secondly, because if he did win that City by as∣sault, he was afraid that his Army should grow too rich and wealthy with the plunder, and by that means would be less fit for the great Actions, in the prosecution of which he intended further to imploy them. This resolution that he was forc'd to take griev'd him; he was not willing to enter into the possession of his Empire by Bloodshed and Cruelty. This consideration caus'd him once more to summon Calix, and advise him to lay down his Arms, with promises of pardon, and to receive him into his favour.

The unadvised Calix, whose courage was not contemptible, slighted all these gracious offers; his ambition render'd him cruel to himself, and caus'd him to look upon all other conditions of life, under that of a Soveraign, as unworthy of him. He could not submit, but chose rather, though but for a day, as a Prince to govern, than to live many years as a Subject. He could not trust nor relye

totally upon the promises of his Prince, with whose generosity and good nature he was never acquaint∣ed: He thought the destiny of men in his conditi∣on, condemns them either to a fatal Ruine, or raises them up to a Throne.

Tamerlan's Army went over to Chincy, marching seven Leagues: as soon as the Enemy understood it, they alter'd their design, and returned back, with an intention to venture a Battel. It is report∣ed, that Calix turning himself then to some of his followers, told them, with his eyes lifted up to Heaven, that in all his life-time he had never received a more pleasing news:. The Parthians, saith he, have pass'd over the River, and are coming towards us: If therefore Tamerlan, who dallied with us before, will suf∣fer us now to end our Quarrel by a Fight, my happiness is great, whatever be the event, it must needs procure me an immortal glory: If the advantage happen on my side, what Prince is there in all Asia that may contend with, or be compared to me, for I shall be Lord of all Tartary and Zagatay, for I fight against the Armies of these two Kingdoms which I have divided: but if I be overcome, the greatness of my undertaking will leave behind me a great deal of Reputation in the world, see∣ing that I have stopt with my Army, during two Months, between the Rivers of Brior and Ostan all the Armies of Zagatay: Therefore if we chance to lose the Victory, it will prove for our honour. During this discourse, his Attendants took notice in his looks of a Noble Air, which made him esteem'd and ad∣mir'd of every one.

When the Armies drew near, the Scouts met, and those of Tamerlan's Army were driven back into their Camp, which accident vext Odmar that com∣manded then the Van. The Prince told him, that

at the approach of the Enemy he ought to have increas'd the numbers; he excus'd himself, in that he imagin'd that Calix would not be so bold as to advance three Leagues towards the Army at that instant.

The next day was spent in giving out Orders to every one: The Captains went about in the Ranks, exhorting their Souldiers to behave themselves well; and both Captains and Souldiers incouraged one another to fight valiantly, by declaring the En∣counters where they had been already.

Calix was forty years of age, much respected be∣cause of the Nobility of his Blood, and the consi∣derable Rank that he held in his Country. The Em∣perour esteem'd him so much for his experience in War, that before Tamerlan appeared in Tartary, he was always look'd upon as worthy of the Em∣pire.

The Armies stood one against another, for eight hours in the morning, skirmishing some∣times according to the Tartarian manner, before the Battel: A great Plain, and even ground lay between them. Odmar commanded the Van, where were sixty thousand Foot, and forty thousand Horse, which he separated into four great Squa∣drons, causing one to go before the other to the Fight. Tamerlan marched on in the same Order, but his Squadrons were stronger. The Infantry of the Van, and of the Main Body, were on the right hand, and on the left. He had taken out of his Army, to make up the Reer, six thousand Parthi∣ans, and two thousand Tartarians, giving the Command to Axalla a Genoese; but, as I have said, had been brought up with him from his Infancy: He had by his affection for him, by his vertue, expe∣rience,

and valour, deserved his Princes esteem and confidence. Tamerlan order'd him not to fight but in the extremity, and to have a care to gather to∣gether all that should be broken in the Army. Ax∣alla performed this so exactly, that he did this day notable service to his Prince. He was no less e∣steem'd by the Men of War, though he professed a Religion contrary to theirs; for he was a Chri∣stian, and imitated by many whom he had sent for out of Georgia, and beyond the Pontus Euxinus; these accompanied him with their courages and persons in the Battel.

Calix on the other side was Eloquent, and natu∣rally a great Speaker; he incourag'd therefore his Souldiers with the honour and liberty of their Nation, to play their parts like men, and follow his example. He had divided his Army into three Bodies, only he had placed his Infantry at the right hand, and his Cavalry at the left; he himself was in the middle Body, surrounded with his Foot, as with a Circle, according to our manner of fight∣ing. Odmar, a crafty and experienced Comman∣der, stopt when he saw the Enemy coming, and ob∣served their motion; but when he perceived that their greatest Body was shaken at the onset of his first Squadron, he caused his two others, the one to charge at the right hand, and the other at the left: They were so furious and happy, as to put the three Bodies of Calix's Army into a disor∣der, so that they were forc'd to reunite in one.

At that time Tamerlan came in, and cut in pie∣ces all that stood before him, nothing was able to resist his fury: he made way through the thickest of his Enemies, some he put to flight, others he laid in heaps; the cries and lamentations of the

dying were heard in every place; the disorder and hurley-burley was generally all over the Field: here you might have seen weak Squadrons disarm∣ing others more numerous; there you might have beheld Troops of Horses taken by such as were more greedy of prey than honour; every where Tamerlan's Army seem'd to have gain'd the Victo∣ry, when fifteen thousand fresh Troops, led by Calix himself, came into the Field, and gave a fu∣rious charge upon the Princes Battalion, and broke it all to pieces. This Reserve proceeded from some that at the first onset fled to the Carts and Carri∣ages, where they had rallied, whiles Tamerlan's men were pursuing the victory, and killing. When therefore this Body of Horse appear'd first, Ta∣merlan's Army being in disorder, they had no great difficulty to overcome them: The Victory was al∣most lost.

This oblig'd him to retreat in fighting, accord∣ing to the manner of the Parthians: The Prince had been dismounted, but rescued at the same mo∣ment, which caus'd him to look to his Reer, which could not yet come up to him. His Infantry had open'd it self when he gave the onset: It had not yet been assaulted, but only upon the skirts in the several Encounters. At the same time therefore that Calix pursued so vigorously the Princes Army, that by a stout resistance had lessen'd the number of the Enemy, Axalla, who commanded the Reserve, or the Reer, came up to the Infantry which had scarce been ingag'd in the fight. The Clouds of dust hindered Calix from perceiving this Body that was in the Reer, and that was falling upon him and his men, who advanc'd in very good order, bearing all down before them. At that very in∣stant

these words were often heard repeated, Give back, give back, give back. Axalla had command∣ed a thousand, or twelve hundred of his Body, to advance, and free the Prince: They charg'd home to the Enemy, so bravely, that Calix began to con∣jecture what would become of his Empire, of his Glory, and ambitious designs, by what was then acted: The displeasure made him pensive a little moment, but resolution caus'd him to send a Party to stop the Enemies fury, while he rallied his scat∣tered Troops. He gathered together about ele∣ven thousand, with them he thought to have beaten Tamerlan's Reer: But he was not a little troubled, because the dust hinder'd him from distinguishing the Foot from the Horse; he imagin'd therefore that all Axalla's Party were Horse. In this occa∣sion he shew'd his courage and resolution with a setled countenance, by exhorting his men to play their parts, and pursue their good fortune which they had already; and assuring them, that the re∣mainder of Tamerlan's men before them were no∣thing, but such as had already fled, who endeavou∣red to rally; and that with a stout onset it was ea∣sie to hinder them. Whiles he was speaking, his Party increas'd: But Axalla considering that his Master had put into his hands that day the fortune of two great Empires, was resolved to answer his expectation, by hazarding his life for his interest and glory, with a resolution of dying upon the place, or of carrying away the Victory, he call'd to such as were nearest to him to follow his exam∣ple; therefore with an incredible fury he broke through the Squadron led by Calix. This Prince was wounded with a Lance in the mouth, when he had performed the duty of a Commander, and

common Souldier, and express'd sufficiently his undaunted courage. In the hurley-burley he was taken Prisoner by Axalla himself. It was imme∣diately nois'd abroad all over the Field, together with the advantages that Tamerlan had obtain'd, for he himself had defeated a Body of Horse, by charging them in the Flank. Axalla before had broken them, but they were rallied together again, and had not Tamerlan seasonably come in, they might have snatch'd the Victory out of his hands. This bad news broke the hearts, as well as the Troops of the Enemy that fled immediately up∣on it.

In this Fight there died above fifty thousand men on both sides; so that Tamerlan purchas'd the Victory at a dear rate, and was forc'd to confess, that in all his life-time he never was more likely to be undone than at that time. He imbrac'd and ex∣toll'd Axalla for his couragious behaviour and wise Conduct that day. This Noble Captain pre∣sented Calix before him, wounded with a Lance in the Mouth, and with an Arrow in his Side. Ta∣merlan ask'd him some questions, but Calix's pride and insolency would make no answer, pretending that he could not well speak. He was kept till the next day, the last of his life, for he was judg'd worthy to die by a Council of War. His Head was chopt off, and sent as a Present to the Inhabi∣tants of Cambalu. All the other Commanders were treated in the same manner: There was a necessity for this severity, to hinder all Civil Broils from ri∣sing again; it was therefore needful to cut off the Chieftains.

After the Fight, Tamerlan's Army meeting with no resistance, march'd into the Province of Catay,

which is full of all kind of Fruits, Grass, Beasts, and Fowl, more than in any other part of Tarta∣ria. The Prince gave a severe Command to all his Souldiers, not to offer to abuse the Inhabitants, whom he would deal with as with his best Sub∣jects.

The Cities of Cangi, Sochgi, Gonzae, Tagin, To∣gara, and Congu, that had revolted, staid not for a Summons to yield, but wisely sent their Deputies to Tamerlan, to implore his mercy.

This good Prince forgave them, requiring no∣thing from them, but that they should furnish his Army with Provisions, telling them, that for the future they should be better advised, than to be so easily perswaded with the empty promises of am∣bitious persons, who would endeavour to draw them from that obedience which they owe to their Lord and Master.

This kind and courteous dealing being divulg'd all over the Provinces, wrought a great change in the minds of those, who expecting no favour from Tamerlan's hands, were yet resolved to venture all, and ruine themselves and their Country. The Citi∣zens of Cambalu had taken this strange resolution, to sell their lives at a dear rate, if they were to lose them; for this City was full of those Mutineers, who knew themselves as guilty as their Comman∣ders that had been punish'd already; expecting therefore no mercy for themselves, they thought it might mitigate their punishment, if they could but draw into it the rest of their Citizens.

But this kind and gracious dealing of their Prince put other thoughts into their Souls, and rais'd their hopes. Nevertheless, the Armies ap∣proach to the City, increas'd daily the fears and

apprehensions of the people. Tamerlan had no∣tice of all that was there acted from those that favour'd his Interest: They sent him word, that at last every one was resolved to obey the Con∣querour, and perform his Commands; therefore he left his Army at Gonza, only thirty thousand men he order'd to march thither to fill up the or∣dinary Garrison. When they were enter'd, they put all things in a good posture, and caus'd every one to submit to the Princes pleasure without murmuring. He himself was received into the City two hours after his Garrison in a triumphing manner, for the Inhabitants laboured, in this oc∣casion, to make him forget the wrong they had done him. He had only pardon'd the meaner sort of people, the rest he left to the will of the Emperour his Uncle, unto whom he had di∣spatch'd a Messenger, to inform him of the Vi∣ctory, of Calix's death, and of the imprisonment of some of the chief Commanders and Leaders of the Faction; and to desire to know what pu∣nishment he would have inflicted upon those of Cambalu, who had been the greatest Mutineers. By this kind and insinuating dealing, he purchas'd to himself in this great City the reputation of a merciful and gracious Prince. He gain'd also the love of every one by courting them, chiefly those who had been faithful to his Party.

After eight days stay in this place, he went a∣way with a thousand prayers and praises, which were again reiterated a little after, when news came from the Emperour, that he would have Ju∣stice done upon the Authors of the Rebellion. This was perform'd in the Cham's Name, and by

his Officers two hundred of the Inhabitants were executed, and their Heads were lifted up in the publick view, for an example to all such as should afterwards attempt to rebel. This cruelty of the Great Cham, condemn'd by the common people, caus'd them to extol the goodness of Tamerlan, who by this yielding to his Uncles will, laid a greater Obligation upon him, and nevertheless purchas'd to himself the universal esteem of the Country.

In the mean while, the Emperour began to rise from his sick Bed, which caus'd him to have an earnest desire to see the Prince, who delayed this Interview till he had been with his Army, where he intended to advise, whether it were not best to stay first, and expect what news he should re∣ceive from his Army upon the borders of China. Thus he went as far from Cambalu as he could, that he might not be thought to have any hand in the execution of the Citizens.

In this manner this dangerous and Civil War was ended, to the advantage of Tamerlan, whose diligence had been notable in the extinguishing of it: One may justly say, that he conquer'd this great Empire, for there was a dangerous and a general conspiracy and rising against him: His vigilancy disappointed all his Enemies. In such like cases, speedy and early appearances in the Field, are of the highest importance for a Prin∣ces Affairs, to incourage his own Party, to terri∣fie such as are wavering, and to prevent all false reports, with which the common people are usu∣ally cozen'd. His chief endeavour should be to perswade, and make it appear, that the Rebels

are not to be fear'd, and that he himself dreads them not; but this he can never do, unless he commands his own Army: By this means he will have a great advantage over the Rebels. It is not to be imagin'd, that a Revolt is to be stifled by weak Remonstrances, for that perswasion savours of as much indiscretion, as the Authors of the Rebellion have had craft to cause their injustice to be entertain'd under the notion of Equity: Therefore without delays, a Soveraign Prince must fall upon the Rebels, scatter and destroy them with the fear of a speedy punishment. By no means let him be prevail'd upon to grant pardon to the Chieftains of the Rebellion.

Tamerlan dealt in this manner with Calix. He knew his designs a great while before he was in a capacity to put them in execution; therefore he provided a timely remedy, a powerful Army in the Province of Zagatay, to be ready to march at his first Command. In the mean while, he pre∣tended to be busie in his Expedition against China, that he might by that means better discover the chief of the Rebellion, and their wicked inten∣tions; by this act of wisdom he disappointed Calix, who doubtless might have prevail'd upon a negligent and weak Prince given to his plea∣sures: But Tamerlan had better qualities, he found the benefit of his cares and vigilancy; for before this he was not well setled in the Empire; but by this Victory he became such an undoubted Successor and Owner of it, that the death of the Great Cham could not cause any alteration or op∣position of his Right. From hence it is easie to conclude, that as his kindness and moderation

were strong Chains to bind the hearts and souls of his good Subjects, his courage and severity knew how to punish the Rebels, and seditious persons, and bring them to obedience. As soon therefore as Tamerlan had overtaken his Army, Odmar who expected him, and caus'd them to march in good order, and slowly, received him with the Captains and Souldiers, with acclamati∣ons and expressions of joy, calling him in the Tar∣tarian Language, Most great and victorious Empe∣rour.

In the way he discours'd with his Captains concerning the Greatness and Beauty of the City of Cambali••••, till he was come into the Tent pre∣par'd for him, where he remain'd alone with Odmar. He told him all that had been acted in that rebellious City; afterwards he desir'd his ad∣vice, whether he should visit the Great Cham, his Uncle, at that time or no. Odmar understood by his words, that he remembred what Honours he had received at Quinsay when he was there, and that he had a secret inclination to spend the Win∣ter with the young Empress, and to go in the Spring into China.

But as he was an Enemy of Flattery, and loved his Prince entirely, as one of his most faithful and chief Officers, he spoke to him boldly in this manner; Brave and Invincible Emperour, let all the world understand, I beseech you, that Tamerlan knows how to use his Victory, as well as to gain it. Do not you mind, that the Army which you have left upon the borders of China is busily imployed in fight∣ing with the Enemy above six months; that the Chief Commander is a Tartarian, and one of the most con∣siderable

of his Nation. Know you not that the Tar∣tarians and Parthians never think a Prince worthy to reign, if he cannot go with them to the War: And do you not consider, that you have undertaken this War to increase the glory of him who hath made you his Successor, and inlarge the bounds of his Empire, by re-taking the Lands which the Chineses have usurp∣ed: It concerns you therefore in gratitude to reco∣ver them with speed. Consider likewise, that your Glory and Reputation will appear to him greater at a distance, than near at hand, and more pleasing, be∣cause it will at a distance tend to inlarge his Empire, and render his Affairs more prosperous, whereas near at hand your Fame will but diminish his Repu∣tation, and it may be cause a jealousie in him. Prin∣ces sometimes are subject to change, and by a sudden repentance to strive to ruine the person whom they have exalted too high. What need have you to un∣dertake a journey so much destructive to your Ho∣nour and Glory? Is it not better to spend the Winter bravely in your Tent with your Army, than in the stately Palaces of Q••••insay, in an Effeminate Court? where such as are not afraid to slander, will not spare you, but will ask, where you have left your Army? whether you threaten the King of China only at a di∣stance, who in your absence may perhaps cut all your Troops in pieces? In such a case, what a trouble will it be, to gather together your dispersed Army; b••••∣sides, your example will have an influence upon the Parthians, they will desire also to return to their Country, and the Tartarians to theirs; whereas if now you march immediately to the Frontiers, you may easily get a Victory, which otherwise you may lose. No doubt but the King of China believes that you

are much ingag'd in your own Country with your hands full, that your Army is daily weakned by the Rebels, who had almost snatch'd the Empire from you. He believes your designs are disappointed, con∣sidering the weakness of the Army commanded by Ca∣libes; their behaviour causeth him to conceive, that they are sent thither rather to secure Tartary, than to assault China. It may be he hath heard some per∣sons tell him that which many of your own people su∣spect, but I dare not affirm it as true, because it is not lawful for me to enquire into the wise counsels of Princes; that the cause wherefore you have left Ca∣libes the Chief of the Tartars upon the Borders, was only to secure his person, and to remove the cause of your fears, rather than out of any desire to proceed on in the Conquests which you pretended to make. Lose not therefore, mighty Prince, such a favourable op∣portunity to succeed, which God offers to you; oppor∣tunity is bald, catch hold of her whiles you may: But if I have offended your Majesty with the freedom of my discourse, use me according to your pleasure, I am your Slave, and here is my Head.

This Speech of Odmar made Tamerlan sad; he chang'd countenance often, but Odmar neverthe∣less continued on, being so much the more ani∣mated by his zeal and affection for his Person and Glory. He repeated to him again the same dis∣course, kissing the Hem of his Garment, as they use to do to the Emperours. The Prince, with his eyes fix'd upon him, told him, that this was the cause of his pensiveness, he was overcome with his affection and faithfulness, and was not in a power to reward him according to his de∣servings; that in this particular he had found,

more than in any other thing, a sign of his Fa∣thers wisdom, in that he had chosen Odmar to be near him, and assist him with his wise Counsels: That necessity, that made him cast away all thoughts of rest, taught him, that Soveraign Prin∣ces are like their Creator in this, that his Glory hath no limits, and consists in action; that though he had flatter'd himself with the thoughts of resting a while from his former labours, he now saw himself forc'd, unless he would renounce the new Laurels that waited for him, to prefer all the inconveniencies and troubles of the De∣sarts of Cipribit, to the pleasures and delights of Quinsay; that he was nevertheless resolv'd to quit his first intentions. Alhacent the Arabian Historian declares, that he hath often heard Ta∣merlan confess, that at this instant Odmar seem'd not to speak to him as a mortal Man, but as a Messenger of God, whom he had sent, to divert from him a mischief that would have perhaps fallen upon him, and to give him an opportunity to increase his Glory.

In the mean while, the news of the Princes go∣ing to visit the Emperour his Uncle spread every where, to the great satisfaction of many, who i∣magin'd that they should also go and visit their Parents and Country. But the next day he com∣manded the General Musters of the whole Army, and spoke to his Souldiers in this manner.

Tamerlan's Speech to his Army.

WE had sometimes since an intent, brave Souldiers, to go and assault the King of China, to oblige him to restore what he hath taken from the Tartarians, and recover the Lands beyond the Mountains which he hath usurped upon us, to the great shame of our Nation, whose Glory we purpos'd to restore; but to our grief we have been hindered by the sawciness of Calix, who forced us to return back to punish his insolency. With the assistance of your Arms, and Invincible Courages, we have quenched the flames of the Rebellion that he had kindled with his blood, and with that of his Companions; I could have wish'd that this Victory had been rather upon Strangers, and a Foreign Nation, than upon our own unfaithful and rebellious subjects. In such a case I had been as joyful, as when at my first appearance in Arms with you, we overcame the proud Muscovites: I must confess I am more oblig'd to you for this, than for that, because your courages and valour appeared more visibly in this Civil War; for you were to en∣counter with some as brave as your selves, you were to encounter with Tartarians, who had forgot what they were, their Allegiance to their Prince. I cannot call to mind this mournful passage without tears, I could willingly bury in Oblivion this unhappy Victory, though I have gain'd by it much honour; I mind you of it at present, only to make you understand, that I can never forget your faithfulness and services, expressed suf∣ficiently in this occasion. But we must not stop here, we must turn our Arms next against those that think that we are lost for ever; whereas we are victorious,

we must go to our Companions that wait for us, who have delayed the execution of their designs till they hear of our successes, and victory; we must go and spend the Winter with them. All our Ammunitions are there, doubtless the sleeping Enemy expects us not in this season of the year; they rest with confidence upon the weakness of our Troops, whose intent they i∣magine is only to defend themselves, as not in a ca∣pacity to assault them. You shall have double Pay to buy Cloaths, and arm your selves against the Cold; and I hope that with these new Garments we shall pur∣chase to our selves new honour and glory.

As soon as his Discourse was ended, the Soul∣diers cryed out with a loud voice, One God in Heaven, and one Emperour upon Earth. At the same time they bowed their Heads to him, to ex∣press their reverence; and declared, that they would perform whatsoever the Prince should command them. After this, every one went strait to his Tent. The Army abode in the same place eight days without stirring, only Zamay was sent with five and twenty thousand Horse, and fifty thousand Foot to Zagatay, to secure that Kingdom. He sent also an Express to the Emperour his Uncle, to inform him of all his Resolutions, and to intreat him in the Spring to send him fifty thousand men, or thereabouts, to recruit his Army, with Money to pay his Soul∣diers, and Ammunition of War, with provisions for the Belly.

Thus when he had given all necessary Orders, and caus'd publick Prayers to be made, according to Custom, he commanded the Army to march to∣wards the Mountains.