Shimr’s opposition
This letter created a favorable reaction on Ibn Ziyad. He appreciated Umar’s efforts and said that the proposal was acceptable. Opposing the proposal, the wretch Shimr bin Zil Joushan said:
“Husain is now in our grip. If he escapes without taking the bay’ah, he might gain respect and power and comparatively you may be rendered weak and helpless. It is advisable that he is kept under watch until he surrenders himself. I am told that Husain and Umar bin Sa’d hold secret talks during the whole night.”
