LIFE OF MOHAMMED. 253 



expeditions for the further destruction of idolatry, 

 which had several strong-holds in other parts of 

 Arabia. The suburban divinities were hurled in 

 contempt from the neighbouring hills. But, while 

 crowds of terrified image-worshippers Avere making 

 their submiss-ion, an obstinate remnant had resolved 

 to maintain their ancient liberties against the arms 

 and the eloquence of the Prophet. The tribes of 

 Hawazan and Thakif, with their aUies the revolted 

 Saadites, had assembled a force of 4000 men under 

 the command of ]\Ialec, for the protection of their 

 gods ; and having posted themselves at Honain, near 

 Taif, were determined to intercept the Moslem army 

 on its return from Mecca. At the head of 13,000 

 brave troops ]\Iohammed reached the valle}^ towards 

 evening, and fomid the enemy drawn up in order of 

 battle, a narrow mountainous defile lying between 

 them. Before sunrise he had made the requisite 

 disposition for attack, displaying with secret pride 

 the banners of Mecca and JNIedina ; the latter of 

 which was followed by 10,000, and the other by 2000 

 waiTiors. 



The general of the enemy, profiting by his advan- 

 tageous situation, had contrived to supply by stra- 

 tagem Avhat he wanted in strength. An unexpected 

 attack threvr the ranks of the believers into complete 

 disorder. They fled with the utmost precipitation, 

 and a moment of panic had well-nigh lost the fruits 

 of fifty battles. The Prophet himself, with ten of 

 his faithful companions, Avere all that kept the field. 

 S'timg with shame and disappointment he attempted 

 to spur his mule into the thickest of the enemy in 

 search of an honourable death, but his brave com- 

 rades interposed, three of Avhom fell and expired at 

 his side. While the valley resounded with the bitter 

 lamentations of their general, the flying battalions 

 were persuaded to retuna, and the combat was 

 renewed with fresh vigour. " The furnace is again 

 rekindled!"' observed the dehghted apostle; and 



Vol. I.— Y 



