The Institutes of Akbar 82.2.7

82.2.7

Many examples are on record of the extraordinary cleverness of elephants; in some cases it is difficult to believe them. Kings have always shewn a great predilection for this animal, and done every thing in their power to collect a large number. Elephant-keepers are much esteemed, and a proper rank is assigned to such as have a special knowledge of the animal. Wicked, low men see in an elephant a means of lawlessness; and unprincipled evildoers, with the help of this animal, carry on their nefarious trade. Hence kings of former times never succeeded in suppressing the rebellious, and were thus disappointed in their best intentions. But His Majesty, though overwhelmed with other important matters, has been able, through God’s assistance and his numerous elephants, to check those low but haughty men; he teaches them to desire submission, and bestows upon them, by wise laws, the blessings of peace. His Majesty divided the Imperial elephants into sections, which he put in charge of honest Dāroghahs. Certain elephants were also declared khāṣah, i. e., appointed for the exclusive use of His Majesty.