The Akbarī Generations 1.8.5

1.8.5

Intelligence now came in that a caravan with a large number of horses had arrived at Charikaran, and Kamran sent Sher 'Ali, with a considerable force, to bring these horses into the city. Humayun was aware of this movement, and drawing nearer to the city he completely closed all means of ingress and egress. When Sher 'Ali returned from his expedition, he could find no way of getting into the place. Kamran then sallied forth, and endeavoured to cut a way through for Sher 'Ali. But the besiegers were aware of a sally being intended, and when the forces came out they were received with a fire of guns and musketry and driven back. Baki Salih and Jalalu-d din Beg, two of Kamran's most trusted adherents, deserted from him and joined the Emperor. Sher 'Ali now gave up all hope of entering the city. Kamran, with dastardly feeling, ordered that His Highness the young prince Akbar should be exposed upon the battlements, in the place where the balls and shot of the guns and muskets fell thickest. But Maham Anka took the child in her bosom, put herself forward, and held him towards the enemy [i.e. the garrison]. So God Almighty preserved him. A part of the garrison made their way out and went off, all in one direction. Humayun sent men in pursuit, who killed many and made many prisoners. Kamran's spirits fell, and from all parts and quarters men came in to render assistance to the Emperor.