A King Exhibited in an Iron Cage

Bajazet I. was sultan of the Ottoman Turks in 1389. He was called Ilderim (the Lightning) on account of his rapid successes in the war. He made all of Asia Minor a part of his dominion, conquered what is now called Turkey in Europe, overran Greece, Hungary, etc. He seemed invincible until Tamerlane of Timour defeated him, and took him prisoner in the great battle of Angora.

Timour was one of the greatest soldiers that ever lived. No one man ever conquered so large a portion of the world, or ruled over so many conquered people.

After the battle of Angora, Bajazet being asked by Tamerlane how he would have treated him had their lots been reversed, "Like a dog," he replied. "I would have made you my footstool when I mounted my saddle; and when your services were not needed, I would have chained you in a cage like a wild beast." Tamerlane replied, "Then, to show you the difference of my spirit, I shall treat you as a king."

So saying, he ordered his chains to be struck off, gave him one of the royal tents, and promised to restore him to his throne if he would lay aside his hostility. Bajazet abused this noble generosity, and plotted the assassination of Tamerlane.

Finding clemency of no avail, Tamerlane commanded him to be "treated as a dog," to be "chained in a cage like a wild beast," and in this condition was compelled to accompany the victorious army of Tamerlane.