Vast herds of cattle were driven along for the ordinary supply of the troops, affording all the nourishment which those rude barbarians required.

Pressing forward, in a long march, which occupied several months, Tamerlane crossed the Volga, and entered the south-eastern principalities of Russia.

The tidings of the invasion spread rapidly, and all Russia was paralyzed with terror.

The grand prince, Vassali, however, strove with all his energies to rouse the Russians to resistance.

An army was speedily collected, and veteran leaders placed in command.