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meaningful glance, and said humbly, “Sire, this is a desperate moment; our soldiers are deserting. One doesn't know from where the blows will rain on us, we dare not stop for prayer. Prayers can be offered only in the security of the palace or the sanctity of the temple; on the battlefield we have to concentrate only on fighting.”
Kumarpal's eyes lit up with the light of faith. “Mahavat,” he said gravely, “this is no ordinary battle; this is a crusade. You know well that I have always considered it my duty to protect every living thing-even the meanest—and yet I have unsheathed my sword against my fellow human beings on this occasion, because it is the duty of a Kshatriya prince to punish the evil-doer. He who gives up his duty or his religion out of fear is a base coward. The prospect of defeat or victory does not disturb me—they are just two aspects of life. I will resume fighting only after I have prayed to God Almighty."
Seated on the elephant the Reaja was lost in prayer and meditation, even as the battle raged all around him. For a while he forgot everything. When he opened his eyes and resumed the fight, an unusual strength seemed to flow through his veins. All afire, he fought like a lion, slashing his foe left and right, which instilled courage in the hearts of his wavering soldiers. Emulating the noble example of their leader, they fought with faith and courage and routed their foe.
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