The Chachnāma (Fatḥnāma-yi Sind) 34.6

34.6

Muhammad Kasim went through the above letter, and read it out to his friends in a public meeting. Preparations were being made to find out the crossing-points to cross the river and to fight with Dahar, when another letter was received. It ran as follows:—“In the name of God, the most merciful and gracious. This is a letter from the high council (majlis) to Muhammad Kasim. After the communication of compliments, let it be known to you that your enemies have vanity in their heads. Never fear them, for victory is reserved for you. I give you discretion to make peace if an amicable settlement is made on favourable terms after solemn promises, and tribute is sent to the treasury of the Khalifah. As for the permission to cross the river and to fight with Dahar, you have already been informed that you may cross it from that point where you expect the least trouble and loss to your men. Or rather draw a sketch map on paper showing the length and breadth of the portion of the river within about 4 leagues above and below the (various) crossing-points, which should also be marked on the bank on which they are situated. I may then select one point and you must cross the river from there, so that no harm may be done to the troops.” On getting this letter, Muhammad Kasim called Mékah Basayeh and asked him to arrange for crossing the river.