Riyaz al-salatin 111.1.8

111.1.8

After a Council of War, it was decided after much deliberation to send a soothing message to Murshid Quli Khan through a trustworthy envoy, who was instructed to get back a reply in the following form: — "I shall not allow you authority or possession over the Subah of Odisah," and then with this document to return to Bengal, and after the rainy season, again mobilising troops, to re-attempt Murshid Quli Khan's subjugation. Although 'Abid Khan and other Afghan Generals, owing to the sedition sown amongst them by Mukhalis Ali Khan, treacherously advised Mirza Baqir Khan, who commanded the vanguard of Murshid Quli Khan's army, to give battle by advancing out of the entrenchment, Murshid Quli Khan remained on the defensive, and dissuaded Mirza Baqir from attempting a sally. But as the period of stay within entrenchments was tediously protracted, Mirza Baqir, carried by his youthful impulsiveness, sallied out with his contingent composed of Syeds of Barha, and arrayed himself in battle-rank. Murshid Quli was, therefore, obliged to array his troops in front of Ali Vardi Khan's army. On both sides, the battle opened with a cannonade, which was soon abandoned for a sword and spear-charge at close quarters.