The Moslemin came forward in fierce array, and with the
sanguine courage inspired by expected triumph. Very conspicuous was
Iskander bounding in his crimson vest upon his ebon steed and waving
his gleaming scimitar.
The Janissaries charged, calling upon Allah! with an awful shout. The
Christian knights, invoking the Christian saints, received the Turks at
the points of their lances. But many a noble lance was shivered that
morn, and many a bold rider and worthy steed bit the dust of that
field, borne down by the irresistible numbers of their fierce
adversaries. Everywhere the balls and the arrows whistled through the
air, and sometimes an isolated shriek heard amid the general clang,
announced another victim to the fell and mysterious agency of the Greek
fire.
Hunniades, while he performed all the feats of an approved warrior,
watched with anxiety the disposition of the Turkish troops. Hitherto,
from the nature of their position, but a portion of both armies had
interfered in the contest, and as yet Iskander had kept aloof.
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