Firishta's History (Gulshan-i Ibrāhīmī) 224.4

224.4

Mullik Bayezeed, the more confirmed in his opinion of the minister’s ignorance of what had occurred, agreed that those officers who had resolved on placing the Prince Musaood on the throne should go to Mahmood Khan’s house, and seize his person. But the minister having obtained timely information of their intentions, previously ordered a body of soldiers to be in readiness in a private apartment, which, when they entered, rushed out and confined them. This bold measure so confounded the rest of the Prince Musaood’s party that some fled precipitately out of the city, while others who remained, collecting troops, endeavoured to possess themselves of the canopy over the tomb of Sooltan Hooshung, and placing it on the head of the Prince Musaood, intended to proclaim him King. Mahmood, hearing of their proceedings, mounted his horse, and rode direct to the palace, where he made an attempt to secure the persons of the two young princes, Musaood and Oomr Khan; but meeting with opposition in the courtyard, swords were drawn on both sides, and a fight ensued, which continued till night-fall. On this occasion many persons were killed; but the Prince’s party being defeated fled, and Mahmood occupied the palace. On the next day he sent word to his father, inviting him to assume the reins of government; but he declined, saying that he alone was best able to conduct the affairs of the state.