Note 668 — Chapter VI · (continued 2)

Ruk neddin was the eldest son of Alá-eddin; as heir presumptive he was much honored by the Ismâilahs, who made no difference between his orders and those of his father. The latter, irritated on that account, declared a younger son his successor, in spite of the people’s attachment to the eldest. Rukn-eddin, perpetually threatened by Ala-eddin’s resentment, took refuge in a well defended castle. He was suspected, and even accused by his own mother, of having been privy to the murder of his father, although he punished the murderer.