At any rate, the time seemed to have come when he must abide the issue of his appeal to arms, and secure or lose his crown by a supreme effort.

Once more the armies were drawn up in three distinct bodies; and once more the leaders held the established central position.

The engagement began along the whole line, and continued for a while without marked result.

Bahram then strengthened his left, and, transferring himself to this part of the field, made an impression on the Roman right.

But Narses brought up supports to their aid, and checked the retreat, which had already begun, and which might soon have become general.