496 Translation of the Vichitra Natak. [No. 6. 



Chapter X. 

 . The Battle of Nadoun. 



For some years my tranquillity remained undisturbed and I employed 

 myself in improving my city, and regulating the morals of its inha- 

 bitants. 



At length one Dilawar Khan came, and sent his son to me, as if on 

 a friendly message, but himself at the head of an army, treacherously 

 attacked me. 



When the enemy was crossing the river the noise of the splashing 

 awoke every one. Alam Siiih came and roused me, and my soldiers 

 ran to their arms with alacrity. 



Warlike instruments of every kind bellowed defiance and enmity, 

 and my army hurried to the banks of the river, which though an 

 ocean of kindness, gave the enemy such a cold reception, that he was 

 benumbed in the attempt to cross it. 



Frightened at the unexpected opposition when a surprize was in- 

 tended, the Musalmans fled without firing a shot, the cowards retreated 

 without striking a blow. Many of them were slain, the rest, noise- 

 lessly returned their swords to their scabbards, and sneaked away 

 ashamed, in the darkness of night to their wives. 



God protected me and the efforts of the enemy were unavailing, he 

 retreated, plundered and destroyed Barwa " en route" and encamped at 

 Blmlau. He could not injure me, so satisfied himself with wreaking 

 his vengeance on Barwa, as Bunnyas* who dare not eat meat, pretend 

 to be nourished with pebbles ! 



Chapter XI. 

 Alif Khan went to his father, but not being able to give a good 

 account of his flight, he stood abashed, then his father Hussein Khan 

 slapping his armsf addressed his chieftains loudly. They prepared 

 themselves for battle. Hussein Khan headed his army, and encouraged 

 his soldiers with his presence. He first of all plundered the A wans, 



* Hindus of a particular caste, who are not allowed to eat meat, put pebbles with 

 their curry mussala, which they suck and spit out, fancying their appetites are 

 appeased. 



t As wrestlers, before they begin to wrestle . 



