The king himself was the first to announce to the citizens of Vladimir the terrible defeat.

Wan from fatigue and suffering, he rode in at the gates, his hair disheveled, and his clothing torn.

As he traversed the streets, he called earnestly upon all who remained to rally upon the walls for their defense.

It was late in the afternoon when the king reached the metropolis.

During the night a throng of fugitives was continually entering the city, wounded and bleeding.