I caused the blast of retreat to be sounded on the ivory horn and step by step we drew back to the crest of the ridge, shooting as we went.

On the crest we re-formed rapidly in a double line standing as close as we could together and my example was followed all down the ranks to right and left.

Then I bethought me of a plan that I had taught these archers again and again in Ethiopia.
With the flag I signalled a command to stop shooting and also passed the word down the line, so that presently no more arrows flew.

The Easterns hesitated, wondering whether this were a trap, or if we lacked shafts, and meanwhile I sent messengers with certain orders to the vanguard, who sped away at speed behind the hill, running as they never ran before.
Presently I heard a voice below cry out, "The Great King commands that the barbarians be destroyed.

Let the barbarians be destroyed!" Now with a roar they came on like a flood.