Page:History of India Vol 9.djvu/181

 HINDU CASTES AND ARMIES 143 The chief soldiers of the country are selected from the bravest of the people, and as the sons follow the profession of their fathers, they soon acquire a knowl- edge of the art of war. These dwell in garrison around the palace (during times of peace), but when on an expedition they march' in front as an advance guard. There are four divisions of the army, the infantry, the cavalry, the chariots, and the elephants. The ele- phants are covered with strong armour, and their tusks are provided with sharp spurs. The commander-in- chief rides on an elephant, with two soldiers on the right and left to manage the animal. The ordinary officer rides in a chariot drawn by four horses; he is surrounded by a file of guards, who keep close to his chariot wheels. The cavalry spread themselves in front to resist an attack, and in case of defeat they carry orders hither and thither. The infantry by their quick movements contribute to the defence. These men are chosen for their courage and strength. They carry a great shield and a long spear; sometimes they hold a sword or sabre, and advance to the front with impetuosity. All their weapons of war are sharp and pointed. Some of them are these spears, shields, bows, arrows, swords, sabres, battle-axes, lances, halberds, long javelins, and various kinds of slings. All these they have used for ages. With respect to the ordinary people, although they are naturally quick-tempered, yet they will not take anything wrongly and they yield more than justice