Travels Of Marco Polo: Forty Seven

Two miles west of Pi-an-fu is a famous castle named Caya-fu built anciently by a king named Dor.  In this castle is a very beautiful palace with a great hall, containing portraits beautifully painted of all the kings who formerly ruled these provinces. Having mentioned this king Dor, I will tell you a curious story of what passed between him and  Prester Johns.  The two sovereigns being at war, Dor was in so strong a situation that the other could not reach him and was therefore much chagrined; upon which seven of his servents said that they would bring before him his adversary, and if he wished even alive.  He said that he would be very much obliged to them.  Having obtained this permission, they went to the king, and presented themselves as strangers desirous to serve him.  He gave them an honourable welcome, and they began their duties with the utmost zeal, rendering themselves extremely acceptable.  After they had remained there for two years, he became too attached to them, and confided in their love as if they had been his sons.  Now hear what these wicked fellows did, and how difficult it is to find defence against a traitor.  The king happened to go out on an excursion with a small number of persons, among whom were these seven.  When they had passed a river distant from the palace, seeing that the king had not attendants enough to defend him, they laid hands on him, drew their swords and threatened to kill him instantly, unless he went along with them.  He was greatly surprised, and said to them ---"what you mean by this, sons? What are you saying? Wither do you wish me to go?" They replied, "We wish you to come with us to Prester John, who is our master." When Dor heard this, he almost died with grief and said, "Ah! my good friends, have I not honoured and treated you as children.  Why will you betray me into the hands of my enemy? This would be a most wicked and disloyal action."  They replied that it must be so.  They led him to their sovereign, who rejoiced greatly, and addressed the King in a very rough language.  The King made no reply, not knowing what to answer.  Prester John was pleased and resolved to spare his captive.  He bestowed on him splendid regal vestments and paid him great honour.  He then said to Dor, "You are not a man to make war against me."

Dor replied, "I am here not to wage a war on you, but to make peace with you."  Prester John said, "You shall receive my favour and honour." Prester John supplied him with many horses and attendants and sent him back with honour and love.

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1. According to Marsden Dor is Darius and Prester John is Quang Khan, who ruled Karakorum and adjacent region of Eastern Tartary.