Page:History of India Vol 5.djvu/68

42 THE HOLY WAKS OF ISLAM of the Faithful," a title wMch had never yet been bestowed upon any prince, either far or near, notwith- standing their intense desire to receive such an honour. The Sultan sat on his throne and vested himself with his new robe, professing his allegiance to the successor of the prophet of God. The amirs of Khorasan stood before him in order, with respectful demeanour, and did not take their seats till so directed. He then be- stowed upon the nobles, his slaves, his confidential servants, and his chief friends valuable robes and choice presents, beyond all calculation, and vowed that every year he would undertake a holy war against Hind. Sultan Mahmud at first designed to go to Seistan, but subsequently preferred to engage in a holy war against Hind. He accordingly distributed arms before convening a council on the subject, that he might secure a blessing on his designs of exalting the standard of religion, of widening the plain of right, of illumining the words of truth, and of strengthening the power of justice. He departed toward the country of Hind in full reliance on the aid of God, who guided him by his light and power, bestowed dignity upon him, and gave him victory in all his expeditions. When he reached Peshawar, he pitched his tent outside the city. There he received intelligence of the bold resolve of Jaipal, the king of Hind and the enemy of God, to offer oppo- sition, and of his rapid advance to meet his fate on the field of battle. He then took a muster of his horses and of all his warriors and their vassals, after which