Riyaz al-salatin 111.1.5

111.1.5

In short, from fear of Ali Vardi Khan, Murshid Quli Khan made preparations in self-defence, and exerted himself strenuously towards the mobilisation of an army, and deputed to Murshidabad Mukhlis Ali Khan, son-in-law of Haji Ahmad, who from before was in his company, in order to arrange the basis of a treaty of peace. After the latter's arrival, Ali Vardi Khan and Haji Ahmad sending a reassuring and diplomatic message to Murshid Quli Khan, set him at ease, and sent back Mukhlis Khan, in order to sow treason secretly amongst the Officers of Murshid Quli Khan's army. Mukhlis Khan presenting himself before Murshid Quli Khan outwardly tried to humour and reassure him, but covertly by offer of allurements and temptations sowed sedition in Murshid Quli's army, and sent an account of his success in this direction to Ali Vardi Khan Mahabat Jang. The latter, with a large army and an immense artillery, instantly marched towards the Province of Orissa. On receipt of this news, leaving his wife, Durdanah Begam, and his son, Yahya Khan, with his treasures in the fort of Barahbati, Murshid Quli Khan with an efficient force and requisite war-paraphernalia, together with his two sons-in-law, named Mirza Muhammad Baqir Khan, a Prince of Persia, and Alau-d-din Muhammad Khan, marched out from Katak (Cuttack) in order to fight, and advanced to the port of Balisar (Balasor).