Marco Polo's Voyage to Indian Seas: 46: The Battle between Barak & Argon

Abaga ruled many provinces boardering on those of Kaidu, it was where grows the tree called in the book of Alexander Arbor Secco.  As the prince committed great raveges on his territory he sent his son Argon, with a very large host of Cavalry into the country of Arbor Secco, to the river of Gihon, where he took a station, fit to guard the country against the invader.  Kaidu, however, assembled a great body of horsemen, and gave the command to a brother named Barak, very brave and skilful, desiring to oppose the enemy.  Barak, with his troops, rode on till they came to the river, and were ten miles distant from Argon.  The latter, informed of the approach of the adversary, made diligent preparation; the two remained three days in their respective camps.  When they were fully prepared, and the naccar began to sound, they no longer delayed, but furiously rushed 
against each other.  The arrows might be seen flying on all sides, and the air was so full of them, that it seemed to rain; and when both parties had discharged them, and many men and horses had been slain, they seized their swords and spears, and began a most fierce and 
cruel combat.  Arms and legs were cut off, chargers killed, and many dreadful wounds inflicted; the noise and cries drowned the loudest thunder.  The earth was covered with dead and dying.  Barak and his men could not endure the force of their adversary; and retreated accross the river; while the victor chased and killed many.  Thus Argon gained the day.  I will relate his other adventures and how he became the sovereign lord after the death of Abaga, his father.

Note:- 

1. Arbor Secco: It is the Latin term for "Dry tree" or "Lonely tree" which is referred to in Alexander Romance.
2. Abaga: Also known as Abaqa Khan the second Mongol ruler of Khanate.
3. River of Gihon: Gihon is said to have flowed around the land of Cush, which according to many scholars, refer to regions in modern day Ethiopia. The term Gihon is derived from Hebrew word "Giha" meaning "gushing forth" or "bursting forth".

4. Argon: Arghun Khan, was the son of Abaqa Khan.

End of the Section 

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