To this Maugis agreed, and accompanied the count to the camp of the Christian army, where being made known, the noble knights on all sides hastened to greet him, and followed the example of the Count de Rance in paying him homage and tendering him unanimously command of all their forces, and offered him the privilege of sharing in the booty already captured from the enemy. This latter proposition, however, Maugis declined to accept, taking only a horse and arms and armor. The next day grand _fêtes_ were celebrated in honor of the advent of the new commander, and these being concluded, they proceeded to dispose their forces for a new activity against the infidels. At a council of war then held, Maugis arranged a plan to lure their foes out of the city by causing them to think the Crusaders had raised the siege and were abandoning their camp. All these strategic preparations were made with the greatest silence and secrecy. At daybreak the following day the Saracens beheld the retreat, and thinking the camp abandoned, duly commenced to march out. They were only allowed to advance to a point where their retreat could be readily cut off. Maugis had secretly sent a number of troops, in command of the Count de Rance, under the walls of the city, with instructions to cut the enemy to pieces when they attempted to re-enter. When the proper moment arrived, Maugis turned and hurled the main body of troops upon the enemy so unexpectedly as to carry terror and dismay into their ranks. They would have retreated, but it was in vain; the Count de Rance appeared in their rear and prevented their entering the city. The battle then waxed furious on both sides. The chief of the Saracens at the head of his soldiers, fighting desperately, showed the greatest valor, but Maugis was everywhere, and pushed his troops forward in a manner that rendered useless all efforts of the enemy to escape. The Count de Rance then unmasked the gate, and falling upon their rear, cut them to pieces, profiting at the moment when the Saracens were flying in retreat.