The superior generalship of Moawiyah had cut off the army of Ali from the Euphrates; his soldiers were perishing from want of water.

Ali sent a message to his rival to request free access to the river, declaring that under the same circumstances he would not allow any of the faithful, though his adversaries, to perish from thirst.
After some debate, Moawiyah determined to avail himself of the advantage of his situation, and to reject the demand of Ali.

The soldiers of Ali became desperate; forced their way through that part of the hostile army which commanded the river, and in their turn entirely cut off the troops of Moawiyah from the water.

Moawiyah was reduced to make the same supplication to Ali.

The generous caliph instantly complied; and both armies, with their cattle enjoyed free and unmolested access to the river.