The Institutes of Akbar 30.3

30.3

A tentlike covering, or Qalandarí, made of waxcloth, or any other lighter material, is spread over it, which affords protection against the rain and the sun; and round about it, are fifty awnings, of twelve yards each. The pavilion, which serves as Díwán-i khás, or private audience hall, has proper doors and locks. Here the nobles, and the officers of the army, after having obtained leave through the Bakhshis, pass before the Emperor, the list of officers eligible for admission being changed on the first of every month. The place is decorated, both inside and outside with carpets of various colours, and resembles a beautiful flower-bed. Outside of it, to a distance of 350 yards, ropes are drawn, fastened to poles, which are set up at a distance of three yards from each other. Watchmen are stationed about them. This is the Diwán i ’Ám, or public audience hall, round which, as above described, the various guards are placed. At the end of this place, at a distance of twelve tanábs is the Naqqárah Khánah, and in the midst of the area the Akásdíah is lighted up.