Firishta's History (Gulshan-i Ibrāhīmī) 63.9.2

63.9.2

Akbur, on learning the capture of Joonpoor, and conceiving the war in that quarter to be of the first importance, relinquished the pursuit of Khan Zuman, and returned thither. Here he issued orders, commanding all the governors of the neighbouring provinces to join him with their forces. Bahadur Khan, seeing such formidable preparations in the provinces which remained loyal, evacuated Joonpoor, and fled towards Benares, as Akbur approached, and despairing of success, addressed the King a second time for pardon, which was granted; and the restoration of his estates and honours also took place. It was observed by one of the kings of old, "If a king's subjects only knew the pleasure there is in conferring a favour, "they would never approach him but with a request;" and in reality there is a gratification in having it in one's power to pardon, far superior to that of indulging in revenge. The King, after passing his royal word, ordered Khan Zuman to court; but he excused himself, pretending "that shame for his past offences alone prevented him from appearing in the presence, till time should have convinced his Majesty of his loyalty; but that when the King should return to Agra, both he and his brother Bahadur Khan would at a future time pay their respects." On his arrival at Agra, Akbur deputed Mehdy Kasim Khan, with four thousand horse, to march against Asuf Khan Hirvy, and expel him from Gurra, of which he still retained possession.