ALARMING POSITION. 143

Accordingly they wheeled round, and gained the
bank of the river, and began to descend. But at
this moment the aspect of the field became most
alarming to the armed pilgrims. The Crusaders and
Saracens met on the banks, and many of the French,
attempting to cross and form a junction with the
Duke of Burgundy, were drowned; and the river was
covered with lances, pikes, shields, and horses and
men struggling in vain to save themselves.

By this time the Lord of Joinville, heading his
knights, had reached a bridge on one of the roads to
Mansourah ; and on perceiving the miserable state of
the army he halted.

‘It is better,’ said he, after looking round, ‘to
remain where we are, and guard this bridge; for, if
we leave it, the Saracens may come and attack the
king on this side, and, if he is assaulted from two
quarters, he will surely be discomfited.’

Accordingly they posted themselves on the bridge
which was between the canal Achmoun and the
gates of Mansourah, and prepared to defend it
against the Saracens. But such was the danger, that
Joinville’s heart, brave as it was, beat with terror,
and he cried aloud for the protection of St. James.

‘Good Lord St. James,’ exclaimed he; ‘succour me,
I beseech thee, and come to my aid in this hour of
need.’

It seemed to him and his companions that his
prayer was answered. Almost as he uttered it, the
Count of Soissons, who was his kinsman, appeared
riding past the bridge; and Joinville hastened to
secure his company.