William Muir

“ Unable to gain the citizens, without whose consent their object was out of reach, the rebel leaders declared themselves satisfied with the Caliph's promise of reform, and so retired. They made as if each company were taking the road home, but with the concerted plan of returning shortly, when they might find the City less prepared. The citizens, relieved of the immediate danger, cast aside their armour, and for some days things went on as before, 'Othman leading the prayers. ”

“ This, coming to the insurgents' knowledge, caused them to redouble their efforts. Closing every approach, they allowed neither outlet nor ingress to a single soul. Water hardly obtainable even by stealth at night, the little garrison suffered the extremities of thirst. On the appeal of 'Othman, 'Ali expostulated with the besiegers;—"they were treating the Caliph," he told them, "more cruelly than they would prisoners on the field of battle. Even infidels did not deny water to a thirsty enemy." ”

“ But the march was long, and the difficulty was for 'Othman to hold out till they should appear. The insurgents had possession of the Mosque and of the approaches to the Palace; and, in the height of insolence, their leader now took the Caliph's place at prayer. There were no troops at Medina, and 'Othman was dependent on the little force which barely sufficed to guard the palace entrance. It was composed besides train-band slaves, of some eighteen near kinsmen, and other citizens, with the sons of 'Ali, Az-Zubeir, and Talha. ”

“ Just then the cry was raised, "To the Treasury!" and suddenly all departed.
1 The blood, we are told, flowed down to the words: "If they turn their backs, they are only schismatics; thy Lord will deal with then for you" (Sura ii. v. 131) . ”

“ Ibn abi Sarh, Governor of Egypt, at once despatched a message to apprise 'Othman. In reply he was ordered to pursue the rebels; he did so, but too late; they had already marched beyond his reach. On turning back he found Egypt in the hands of a traitor, and fleeing for his life, took refuge across the border in Palestine. Among the insurgent leaders of Egypt was Mohammad son of Abu Bekr
1 Life of Mohammad, p. ci. It may be performed any time of the year. 225
Insurgents encamp near Medina; first retire ”