[Pramāṇa](https://indike.org/pramana/) › [Indian literature](https://indike.org/pramana/in) › [Dark Ages](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages) › [General histories](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general) › [Tārīkh-i Firishta](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta) › [History of the Rise of the Mahomedan Power in India (Briggs)](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs) › 6 # Firishta's History (Gulshan-i Ibrāhīmī) 6: SOOLTAN MAHMOOD-GHIZNEVY. History of the Rise of the Mahomedan Power in India (Briggs) 6 - **Language:** English ## Contents - [6.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.1) — 8 parts - [6.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.2) — 9 parts - [6.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.3) — 8 parts - [6.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.4) — 9 parts - [6.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.5) — 10 parts - [6.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.6) — 8 parts - [6.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.7) — 10 parts - [6.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.8) — 8 parts - [6.9](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.9) — 2 parts ### SOOLTAN MAHMOOD-GHIZNEVY. ### [6.1.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.1.1) Description of Mahmood. — Gold mine discovered during his reign in Seestan. — Mahmood deputes an embassy to Ameer Nooh, King of Bokhara, to receive an acknowledgment of his claim to the succession. — The King of Bokhara refuses to confirm Khorassan to him, but confers it on Ameer Toozun Beg. — Mahmood marches to oppose Toozun Beg. — He retreats to join the King of Bokhara, who takes the field. — The King of Bokhara is seized by his own officers, and put to death. — His son Abdool Mullik raised to the throne. — Elik Khan, ruler of Kashghar, invades Bokhara, slays the young king, and seizes on the government. — Mahmood sends an embassy to Elik Khan, and receives his daughter in marriage. — Mahmood makes war with the Hindoos. — Defeats Jeipal, Raja of Punjab. — Second expedition to India. — Lays siege to Bhatna, and takes it after much resistance. — Elik Khan invades Khorassan in the absence of Mahmood in India. — Mahmood defeats Elik Khan, who never again appears in the field. — The army of Mahmood nearly lost in the snow. — Third expedition to India. — Mahmood opposed, on the confines of Pishawur, by Anundpal, the son and successor of Jeipal. — The Hindoos defeated with great slaughter. — Mahmood takes Nagrakote, and returns to Ghizny. — Fourth expedition to India. — Battle of Tahneswur. — Mahmood deputes his generals to take Joorjistan. — Procures the entire cession of Khorassan from the Caliph Alkadir Billa of Bagdad. — Fifth expedition to India. — Nindoona in Punjab taken. ### [6.1.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.1.2) — Kashmeer invaded. — Sixth expedition to India. — Lokote besieged. — Mahmood's army nearly perishes on its return to Ghizny. — Marches against Khwaruzm. — The whole of Transoxania, including Orkund, is added to the Ghiznian empire. — Seventh expedition to India. — The Raja of Anun-poor submits to pay tribute. — Mahmood takes Merut, Mahavun, and Muttra. — Eighth expedition into India. — Punjab invaded. — Lokote and Lahore taken. — An officer left in Punjab to govern the country. — Ninth expedition to India. — Kalunjur besieged. — The Raja Nunda Ray agrees to pay tribute, and peace is concluded. — On his return to Ghizny, Mahmood marches into Transoxania, and settles that country. — Tenth expedition to India. — Mahmood proceeds to Guzerat, and reduces Somnat. — Description of the temple. — Mahmood returns to Ghizny. — His army nearly perishes for want of water on its march. — Expedition against the Juts, near Mooltan. — Their fleet attacked and destroyed, by the fleet of Mahmood, on the Indus. — The Seljook Tartars invade Transoxania, and the provinces on the Caspian. — Mahmood unable from debility to oppose them. — His health declines. — His death. — Character. — Description of his court. — His munificence to learned men. ### [6.1.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.1.3) We are told by historians, that Mahmood was endowed with all the qualities of a great prince, and reflected lustre upon the faith: while others inform us, that in his disposition the vice of avarice held supreme sway. It appears to me, however, that he has been unjustly censured in this respect. It is true, he was insatiable in acquiring wealth; but it was expended in the prosecution of his distant and splendid conquests. We have the testimony of the Futteh-ool-Bulad, and the travels of Aboo-Nusr-Muscaty, and of the famous Abool-Fuzeel, that no king had ever more learned men at his court, maintained a finer army, or displayed more magnificence than Mahmood. All these objects could not have been obtained without great expense; so that, when he is accused of avarice, some few particular acts of his life must be alluded to, which ought by no means to affect his general character. In two instances this passion was certainly very conspicuous. First, in his conduct to Ferdowsy; and, secondly, in his exactions from his subjects, in the latter part of his reign. ### [6.1.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.1.4) Mahmood, who, it is stated, was deficient in personal beauty, said one day (observing himself in a glass), "The sight of a king should brighten the eyes of the beholders; but nature has been so unkind to me, that my appearance is positively forbidding." His Vizier replied, "It is not one in ten thousand of a king's subjects who are blessed with a sight of him; but your Majesty's virtues are diffused over all." But to proceed with our history. Mahmood was the eldest son of Subooktugeen. His mother was the daughter of a person of good family in Zabulistan; for which reason she is termed Zabuly. He was born on the night of the ninth Mohurrum, in the year 357 of the Hijra, (15th December, 967,)—and Minhaj-oos-Siraj Joorjany states, that his birth took place on the same day of the year as that of the Prophet. Subooktugeen being asleep at the time of his birth, dreamed that he beheld a green tree springing forth from the fire-place of his house, which threw its shadow over the face of the earth, screening with its boughs, from the storms of heaven, the whole animal creation. This, indeed, was verified by the justice of Mahmood; for it has been metaphorically stated, that in his reign the wolf and the lamb drank together at the same brook. In the first month of his reign, a vein of gold, resembling a tree, of three cubits in depth, was discovered in a mine in Seestan, which yielded pure gold till the reign of Musaood, when it was lost in consequence of an earthquake. ### [6.1.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.1.5) Mahmood, having ejected his brother, hastened to Bulkh, from whence he sent an ambassador to Abdool Munsoor, King of Bokhara, to whom the family of Ghizny still continued to own allegiance, complaining of the indignity which had been offered him by the nomination of Ameer Toozun Beg to the government of Khorassan, a country so long in possession of his father. Mahmood received for answer, that he was already in possession of the territories of Bulkh, Toormooz, and Hirat, and that it was expedient to divide the favours of Bokhara among all its officers. He was, moreover, informed that Toozun Beg had been a faithful and good servant, an insinuation which implied a reflection on the family of Ghizny for having rendered itself independent in the governments it held of the royal house of Samany. Mahmood, not discouraged by this answer, sent Abool-Hussun Jumvy with rich presents to the court of Bokhara, and a letter couched in the following terms: — that "he hoped no such indignity would be imposed on him as to drive him to the necessity of throwing off that allegiance he had hitherto paid to the imperial house of Samany." ### [6.1.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.1.6) The Emperor, instead of replying to the letter of Mahmood, contrived to gain over his ambassador to his own service, and appointed him to the office of Vizier. Mahmood accordingly marched to recover Nyshapoor from Toozun Beg, who, advised of his intention, abandoned the city, and sending intelligence of his situation to the Emperor Ameer Munsoor, that prince himself marched to oppose Mahmood, and in the rashness of inexperienced youth hastened towards Khorassan, without halting, till he reached Surukhsh. Mahmood, though he well knew that the Emperor was in no condition to oppose him, was induced, out of respect towards the imperial standards of Samany, to evacuate Nyshapoor, and to fall back on Moorghab. Ameer Toozun Beg, in the mean time, treacherously engaged in a conspiracy with Faik in the camp of Ameer Munsoor, and seizing that prince, put out his eyes, and raised Abdool-Mullik, the younger brother of Munsoor (then a boy), to the throne. Apprehensive, however, of the resentment of Mahmood, the conspirators hastened to Murv, whither they were pursued by Mahmood. Finding themselves hard pressed, they halted and gave battle, but were defeated. Faik carried off the young king, and fled to Bokhara; Toozun Beg also escaped, but was not heard of, till he began to collect his scattered troops. Faik, in the mean time, fell sick, and soon after died. ### [6.1.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.1.7) Elik Khan, ruler of Kashghar, seizing the opportunity afforded by these dissensions, marched from Kashghar to Bokhara, and slaying Abool Mullik, annihilated his whole race. Thus the house of Samany, which had continued to reign in Bokhara for a period of one hundred and twenty-eight years, became extinct. Mahmood, at this juncture, employed himself in settling the government of the provinces of Bulkh and Khorassan, which he regulated in such a manner, that his fame reached the Caliph of Bagdad, Alkadir-Billa of the house of Abaas; who sent him a rich honorary dress (such as he had never before bestowed on any king), and dignified Mahmood with the titles of Ameen-ool-Millut, and Yemeen-ood-Dowlut. In the end of the month Zeckad, in the year 390, Mahmood proceeded from Bulkh to Hirat, and thence to Seestan, where having defeated Khuluf the son of Ahmed, the governor of that province, he returned to Ghizny. About the same time, also, he marched in the direction of India, took many forts and provinces, in which having established his own governors, he returned to his capital. Having overcome all opposition to his government, he devoted himself for some time to the improvement of his country and to the organisation of courts of civil and criminal justice. ### [6.1.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.1.8) He also deemed it politic to acknowledge the new ruler of Bokhara, and accordingly deputed Aboo-Tyub Soheil, Bin Sooliman, Salooky, with magnificent presents, to form an alliance with Elik Khan, and to congratulate him on his late acquisition of the territory of Bokhara. On the arrival of the ambassador in Toorkistan, he was met by deputations at all the principal towns (for many of the Toorks at this time had become Mahomedans), and being graciously received at Orkund by Elik Khan, the envoy remained there till the accomplishment of the objects of his journey. ### [6.2.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.2.1) Mahmood having settled the affairs of his empire, turned his thoughts towards Hind; and he accordingly marched, in the month of Shuval, in the year 391, from Ghizny, with ten thousand chosen horse, to Pishawur, where Jeipal, the Raja of Lahore, with twelve thousand horse, and thirty thousand foot, supported by three hundred elephants, opposed him, on Monday the 8th of Mohurrum, in the three hundred and ninety-second year of the Hijra. An obstinate battle ensued, in which Mahmood was victorious; Jeipal with fifteen of his principal chiefs, being his sons and brethren, were taken prisoners, and five thousand of his troops were slain on the field of battle. Mahmood in this action acquired great fame and wealth: among the spoils were sixteen necklaces inlaid with jewels, one of which, that belonging to Jeipal, was valued by jewellers at the time at 180,000 deenars. After this victory, Mahmood marched from Pishawur, and investing the fort of Bitunda, reduced it. In the opening of the ensuing spring he released his prisoners, on payment of a large ransom, and on their stipulating for an annual tribute; but he put to death many of the Afghan chiefs who had opposed him, and then returned to Ghizny. ### [6.2.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.2.2) It is said that, in those days, a custom prevailed among the Hindoos, that whatever raja was twice overpowered by strangers, became disqualified to reign. Jeipal, in compliance with this custom, resigned his crown to his son; and, having ordered a funeral pile to be prepared, he set fire to it with his own hands, and perished therein. In the month of Mohurrum, of the year three hundred and ninety-three, Mahmood again marched into Seestan, and brought Khuluf prisoner to Ghizny. Finding, also, that the tribute from Hindoostan had not been paid, in the year three hundred and ninety-five, he directed his march towards the city of Bhateea; and passing through the province of Moultan arrived before that place. Bhateea was fortified with an exceedingly high wall, and surrounded by a deep and broad ditch. It was at that time governed by Raja Beejy Ray, who, having greatly molested the Mahomedan governors, whom Mahmood had established in Hindoostan, also refused to pay his proportion of the tribute to Anundpal, the son of Jeipal, on whom he was dependent. When Mahmood entered the territories of Beejy Ray, that prince drew out his troops to receive him; and taking possession of strong posts, engaged the Mahomedans for the space of three days, during which time they suffered so much, that they were on the point of abandoning their enterprize. ### [6.2.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.2.3) On the fourth day, Mahmood, addressing his troops, said he should in person lead the main attack, "For to-day, (said he,) I have devoted myself to conquest or to death." Beejy Ray, on his part, having propitiated the gods, resolved also to combat with his wonted courage. Although the Mahomedans advanced with great impetuosity, they were frequently repulsed with slaughter; still, however, they returned, and renewed with ardor their attacks till evening, when Mahmood, turning his face towards Mecca, prostrated himself in sight of his troops, and implored the aid of the Prophet. "Advance, advance," cried the King, "our prayers have found favour with God." A loud shout from his soldiers responded their resolution, and the Mahomedans, pressing forward, compelled the enemy to give ground, and pursued them to the gates of the town. ### [6.2.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.2.4) Mahmood having next morning invested the fort of Bhateea, took measures to fill up the ditch, an undertaking which in a few days was nearly completed. Beejy Ray, deeming it impossible any longer to maintain the town, determined to leave only a small garrison for its defence; and, accordingly, one night, marched out with the rest of his troops, and took post in a wood on the banks of the Indus. Mahmood, informed of his retreat, detached part of his army to surprise him. Beejy Ray, deserted by most of his friends, and perceiving himself surrounded by the Mahomedans, attempted in vain to force his way, till, just as he was on the point of being made prisoner, he turned his sword against his own breast; and most of his adherents subsequently fell, in attempting to revenge the death of their master. Mahmood, mean time, took Bhateea by assault. Two hundred and eighty elephants, many slaves, and other spoils, were obtained in the town; which Mahmood annexed, with its dependencies, to his own dominions and returned victorious to Ghizny. ### [6.2.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.2.5) In the year three hundred and ninety-six, Mahmood formed the design of reconquering Mooltan, which had revolted. Sheikh Humeed Lody, the first ruler of Mooltan, had paid tribute to Ameer Subooktugeen, and after him his grandson Abool-Futteh Dawood, the son of Nuseer, the son of Sheikh Humeed. Abool-Futteh Dawood, now having abandoned the tenets of the faithful, had at this time shaken off his allegiance. It is related in the Towareekh Alfy, that when he heard of the approach of Mahmood from Ghizny, Abool-Futteh Dawood solicited the aid of his ally Anundpal, the successor of Jeipal ; who, true to his alliance, detached the greater part of his army to oppose Mahmood in Pishawur, where it was defeated, and pursued by his troops as far as the town of Sodra, on the Chunab. Anundpal, on this occasion deserting his capital, fled through the hills into Kashmeer. Mahmood now entered Mooltan, by the route of Bitunda : when Dawood received the intelligence of the fate of Anundpal's army, and being too weak to keep the field alone, he retreated, and subsequently purchased his pardon by a promise of an annual tribute of 20,000 golden dirhems, and implicit obedience in future. ### [6.2.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.2.6) Mahmood having besieged Mooltan for seven days made these terms, and was preparing to return to Ghizny, when news was brought from Arslan Jazib, governor of Hirat, that Elik Khan, the king of Kashgar, had invaded his territory. He instantly repaired to Ghizny, having placed the management of the affairs of Hindoostan in the hands of Sewukpal, a Hindoo prince, who had formerly been made prisoner by Aboo-Ally-Sunjury, in Pishawur, and had become a convert to Mahomedism. The particulars of the war with Elik Khan are these. We have already mentioned that a close alliance had been formed between Elik Khan and Mahmood, to the latter of whom the former had given his daughter in marriage. But factious persons about the two courts, by misrepresentations, had changed their former friendship into enmity. When Mahmood marched to Hindoostan, he left Khorassan almost destitute of troops, and Elik Khan, taking advantage of the circumstance, resolved to seize that province for himself. To accomplish his design, he ordered his chief general, Sipustugeen, to invade Khorassan, and directed Jakurtugeen to invade Bulkh. Arslan Jazib, the governor of Hirat, informed of these movements, hastened to Ghizny to secure the capital; and the chiefs of Khorassan finding themselves deserted, and being in no condition to oppose the enemy, submitted to Elik Khan. ### [6.2.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.2.7) Mahmood, having by long marches reached Ghizny, pushed onward with his army towards Bulkh, from whence Jakurtugeen although in full possession of the city, fled towards Toormooz. Mahmood detached Arslan Jazib with a great part of his army to expel Sipustugeen from Khorassan; who, upon the approach of the troops of Ghizny, abandoned Hirat, and retreated to Mawur-ool-Nehr. Elik Khan, seeing the state of his affairs, solicited the aid of Kuddur Khan of Khootun, who marched to join him with fifty thousand men. Strengthened by this alliance, Elik Khan crossed the river Jyhoon (Oxus), and encamped within four fursungs of Bulkh. Mahmood was not backward to meet him. The command of the van of the army was given to his brother, the Prince Nuseer-ood-deen Yoosoof, governor of Joozjan, under whom fought Aboo-Nusr Koorzoon and Abdoolla Taee. The right wing was entrusted to Altoon Tash Hajib, while the left, composed of Afghans and Khiljies, was commanded by Arslan Jazib. The main body was strengthened by five hundred elephants, placed in the intervals of the line, so that nothing might oppose the retreat of these animals in case of defeat. The King of Kashghar posted himself in the centre. The Ameer Kuddur Khan led the right, and Sipustugeen the left wing. As both armies advanced to the charge, the shouts of warriors, the neighing of horses, and the clashing of arms, reached the broad arch of heaven, while dust obscured the face of day. ### [6.2.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.2.8) Elik Khan in person attempted with his personal guards to break through the centre of Mahmood's army; but the latter perceiving his intention, leaped from his horse, and, kissing the ground, invoked the aid of the Almighty. He instantly mounted an elephant, encouraged his troops, and met the assault of Elik Khan. The elephant, seizing the standard bearer of the enemy in his trunk, tossed him aloft in the air. Mahmood now pressed forward with the line of elephants, which trod the enemy like locusts under their feet. The Ghizny troops bravely supported their king, rushing on with headlong impetuosity, and driving the enemy with great slaughter before them. Elik Khan, defeated on all sides, crossed the river with a few of his surviving attendants, and never afterwards appeared in the field during the remainder of Mahmood's reign. It is related in the Towareekh Yumny, that the King, after this victory, proposed to pursue the enemy, which was thought unadvisable by his generals, on account of the inclemency of the season, it being then winter, and the troops hardly capable of motion. But Mahmood, firm in his determination, followed the fugitives for two whole days. On the third night, a storm of wind and snow overtook the Ghiznian army in the desert. The King's tents were, with much difficulty, pitched, while the army was without shelter. ### [6.2.9](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.2.9) Mahmood having ordered a number of munkuls or stoves to be brought within his tents, they became so heated, that many of the courtiers began to throw off their upper garments, when a facetious chief, whose name was Dilchuk, came in, shivering with cold. The King observing him, said, "Go out, Dilchuk, and tell the Winter that he may burst his cheeks with blustering, for here we defy his power." Dilchuk went out accordingly, and returning in a short time, kissed the ground, and thus addressed his master: "I have delivered the King's message to the Winter, but the surly season replies, that if his hands cannot reach the skirts of royalty, nor hurt the attendants of the court, yet he will so evince his power this night on the army, that in the morning Mahmood may be compelled to saddle his own horse." ### [6.3.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.3.1) The King smiled at this reply, but it presently rendered him thoughtful, and he determined to proceed no further. In the morning, some hundreds of men and horses were found to have perished from the cold. Mahmood at this time received advice from India, that Sewukpal, the renegade Hindoo, had thrown off his allegiance, and returning to his former religion, had expelled all the officers appointed by the King. Mahmood, resolving to punish this revolt, and having marched with great expedition towards India, detached some part of his cavalry in front, who, coming unexpectedly upon Sewukpal, defeated him, and brought him in prisoner. The rebel was compelled to pay the sum of 400,000 dirhems, and was kept in confinement during the rest of his life. ### [6.3.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.3.2) Mahmood having thus settled his affairs in India, returned, in the autumn, to Ghizny; where he remained during the winter. In the spring of the year A. H. 399, he determined again to attack Anundpal, Raja of Lahore, for having lent his aid to Dawood, during the late defection in Mooltan. Anundpal, hearing of his intentions, sent ambassadors on all sides, inviting the assistance of the other princes of Hindoostan, who now considered the expulsion of the Mahomedans from India as a sacred duty. Accordingly the rajas of Oojein, Gualiar, Kalunjur, Kunowj, Dehly, and Ajmeer, entered into a confederacy, and collecting their forces advanced towards Punjab with the greatest army that had yet taken the field. The Indians and Mahomedans arrived in sight of each other on a plain on the confines of the province of Pishawur, where they remained encamped forty days without coming to action. The troops of the idolaters daily increased in number. The Hindoo females, on this occasion, sold their jewels, and melted down their golden ornaments (which they sent from distant parts), to furnish resources for the war; and the Gukkurs, and other warlike tribes joining the army, surrounded the Mahomedans, who were obliged to entrench their camp. ### [6.3.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.3.3) Mahmood, having thus secured himself, ordered six thousand archers to the front to endeavour to provoke the enemy to attack his entrenchments. The archers were opposed by the Gukkurs, who, in spite of the King's efforts and presence, repulsed his light troops, and followed them so closely, that no less than 30,000 Gukkurs with their heads and feet bare, and armed with various weapons, penetrated into the Mahomedan lines, where a dreadful carnage ensued, and 5000 Mahomedans in a few minutes were slain. The enemy were at length checked, and being cut off as fast as they advanced, the attacks became fainter and fainter, till, on a sudden, the elephant, upon which the prince who commanded the Hindoos rode, becoming unruly from the effects of the naphtha balls, and the flights of arrows, turned and fled. This circumstance produced a panic among the Hindoos, who, seeing themselves deserted by their general, gave way and fled also. Abdoolla Taee, with six thousand Arabian horse, and Arslan Jazib, with 10,000 Toorks, Afghans, and Khiljies, pursued the enemy day and night, so that 20,000 Hindoos were killed in the retreat. Of the spoil, 30 elephants (besides other booty) were brought to the King. ### [6.3.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.3.4) The King, in his zeal to propagate the faith, now marched against the Hindoos of Nagrakote, breaking down their idols and razing their temples. The fort, at that time denominated the Fort of Bheem, was closely invested by the Mahomedans, who had first laid waste the country around it with fire and sword. Bheem was built by a prince of the same name, on the top of a steep mountain, where the Hindoos, on account of its strength, had deposited the wealth consecrated to their idols by all the neighbouring kingdoms; so that in this fort there is supposed to have been a greater quantity of gold, silver, precious stones, and pearls, than was ever collected in the royal treasury of any prince on earth. Mahmood invested the place with such expedition, that the Hindoos had no time to throw in troops for its defence. The greater part of the garrison was before in the field, and those within consisted, for the most part, of priests, who, having little inclination to the bloody business of war, made overtures to capitulate; and on the third day Mahmood became master of this strong citadel without opposition or bloodshed. ### [6.3.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.3.5) In Bheem were found 700,000 golden dinars, 700 muns of gold and silver plate, 200 muns of pure gold in ingots, 2000 muns of silver bullion, and twenty muns of various jewels, including pearls, corals, diamonds, and rubies, which had been collected since the time of Bheem, the details of which would be tedious. With this vast booty Mahmood returned to Ghizny; and in the year 400 prepared a magnificent festival, where he displayed to the people his wealth in golden thrones, and in other rich ornaments, on a great plain without the city of Ghizny, conferring on every individual of rank a princely present. In the following year Mahmood led his army towards Ghoor. The native prince of that country, Mahomed, of the Afghan tribe of Soor (the same race which gave birth to the dynasty that eventually succeeded in subverting the family of Subooktugeen), occupied an entrenched camp with 10,000 men. Mahmood was repulsed in repeated assaults which he made from morning till noon. Finding that the troops of Ghoor defended their entrenchments with such obstinacy, he caused his army to retreat in apparent confusion, in order to allure the enemy out of his fortified position. The Ghoorians, deceived by the stratagem, pursued the army of Ghizny; when the King, facing about, attacked and defeated them with great slaughter. Mahomed Soor, being made prisoner, was brought to the King, but having taken poison, which he always kept under his ring, he died in a few hours; ### [6.3.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.3.6) his country was annexed to the dominions of Ghizny. The author of the Towareekh Yumnjr affirms, that neither the sovereigns of Ghoor nor its inhabitants were Mahomedans till after this victory ; whilst the author of the Tubkat-Nasiry, and Fukhr-ood-Deen Moobarik Shah Lody, the latter of whom wrote a history of the kings of Ghoor in verse, both affirm, that they were converted many years before, even so early as the time of Ally, the son-in-law of the Prophet ; and they assert that, during the reigns of the Caliphs of the house of Oomya, the whole race of Islam was induced to revile the venerable Ally, with the exception only of the Ghoorians. Mahmood, in the same year, was under the necessity of marching to Mooltan, which had revolted ; where having cut off a number of the infidel inhabitants and brought Dawood, the son of Nuseer, prisoner to Ghizny, he confined him in the fort of Ghooruk for life. ### [6.3.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.3.7) In the year 402, Mahmood resolved on the conquest of Tahnesur, in the kingdom of Hindoostan. It had reached the ears of the King that Tahnesur was held in the same veneration by idolaters, as Mecca by the faithful ; that they had there set up a number of idols, the principal of which they called Jugsoom, pretending that it had existed ever since the creation. Mahmood having reached Punjab, required, according to the subsisting treaty with Anundpal, that his army should not be molested on its march through his country. An embassy was accordingly sent to inform the Raja of his intentions, and desiring him to send safe-guards into his towns and villages, which he would take care should be protected from the followers of his camp. ### [6.3.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.3.8) Anundpal, agreeing to this proposal, prepared an entertainment for the reception of the King, at the same time issuing orders for all his subjects to supply the camp with every necessary of life. The Raja's brother, with two thousand horse was also sent to meet the army, and to deliver the following message: — "My brother is the subject and tributary of the King, but he begs permission to acquaint his Majesty, that Tahnesur is the principal place of worship of the inhabitants of the country: that if it is required by the religion of Mahmood to subvert the religion of others, he has already acquitted himself of that duty, in the destruction of the temple of Nagrakote. But if he should be pleased to alter his resolution regarding Tahnesur, Anundpal promises that the amount of the revenues of that country shall be annually paid to Mahmood; that a sum shall also be paid to reimburse him for the expence of his expedition, besides which, on his own part, he will present him with fifty elephants, and jewels to a considerable amount." Mahmood replied, "The religion of the faithful inculcates the following tenet: 'That in proportion as the tenets of the Prophet are "diffused, and his followers exert themselves in the subversion of idolatry, so shall be their reward in heaven; that, therefore, it behoved him, with the assistance of God, to root out the worship of idols from the face of all India. How then should he spare Tahnesur?" ### [6.4.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.4.1) This answer was communicated to the Raja of Dehly, who, resolving to oppose the invaders, sent messengers throughout Hindoostan to acquaint the other rajas that Mahmood, without provocation, was marching with a vast army to destroy Tahnesur, now under his immediate protection. He observed, that if a barrier was not expeditiously raised against this roaring torrent, the country of Hindoostan would be soon overwhelmed, and that it behoved them to unite their forces at Tahnesur, to avert the impending calamity. Mahmood having reached Tahnesur before the Hindoos had time to take measures for its defence, the city was plundered, the idols broken, and the idol Jugsoma was sent to Ghizny to be trodden under foot. According to Hajy Mahommed Kandahary, a ruby was found in one of the temples weighing 450 miskals, and it was allowed by every one who saw it to be a wonder that had never before been heard of. ### [6.4.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.4.2) Mahmood, after the capture of Tahnesur, was desirous of proceeding to Dehly. But his nobles told him, that it would be impossible to keep possession of it, till he had rendered Mooltan a province of his own government, and secured himself from all apprehension of Anundpal, Raja of Lahore. The King resolved, therefore, for the present, to proceed no further, till he had accomplished these objects. Anundpal, however, conducted himself with so much policy and hospitality towards Mahmood, that he returned peaceably to Ghizny. On this occasion, the Mahomedan army brought to Ghizny 200,000 captives, and much wealth, so that the capital appeared like an Indian city, no soldier of the camp being without wealth, or without many slaves. ### [6.4.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.4.3) In the year 403, Mahmood deputed his generals, Altoon-Tash and Arslan Jazib, to reduce the province of Joorjistan; when the prince of that country, entitled Sar-Aboo-Nusr, was taken prisoner. The appellation of Sar among the Tartars having the same signification as Ray in India, and Kysur (Caesar) in Rome. Mahmood at this time wrote to the Caliph of Bagdad (Al-Kadir Billa Abassy), that as the greatest part of the province of Khorassan was under his jurisdiction, he hoped he would order his governors to give up the remainder. The Caliph, dreading the great power of Mahmood, consented without hesitation to this demand. Finding the Caliph so complying, he required him also to send an order for the surrender of the city of Samarkand; but the Caliph refusing to accede to this proposal, Mahmood wrote him a threatening letter, and repeated his demand, stating, that unless an order was forthwith sent for the cession, he would march to Bagdad, and putting him to death, would bring his ashes to Ghizny. The Caliph, roused with indignation, made a laconic but spirited reply, which had the effect of preventing Mahmood from again urging the request. ### [6.4.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.4.4) In the year 404, Mahmood marched his army against the fort of Nindoona, situated on the mountains of Balnat, then in the possession of the Raja of Lahore. Anundpal had lately died, and his son, Jeipal the Second, had succeeded to the government. When the grandson of Jeipal saw that he could not oppose the King in the field, he drew off his army towards Kashmeer, leaving troops for the defence of his capital. Mahmood immediately invested it, and by mining and other modes of attack, put the garrison under the necessity of capitulating. The King having granted to the besieged their lives took every thing of value out of the place, and appointing a new governor moved without delay towards Kashmeer, on which the Raja of Lahore, abandoning that province, fled to the hills. Mahmood plundered Kashmeer, and, having forced the inhabitants to acknowledge the Prophet, returned with rich spoils to his capital. ### [6.4.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.4.5) Mahmood, in the year 406, revisited Kashmeer with his army, in order to punish some revolted chiefs, and to besiege some forts, which he had not reduced in his former expedition. The first of those forts was Lokote, remarkable on account of its height and strength, and which entirely defeated the King's utmost efforts; for not being able to reduce it during the summer season, he was obliged, on the approach of winter, to abandon his enterprize and return to Ghizny. On his route he was misled by his guides, and falling into extensive morasses, from which he for several days could not extricate his army, many of his troops perished, and he failed in all the enterprises of this campaign. Abool Abass Mamoon, King of Khwaruzm, in the course of the same year, wrote to Mahmood, asking his sister in marriage, to which the King having agreed, she was sent to Khwaruzm. ### [6.4.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.4.6) In the year 407, a revolt occurring in the government of Abool Abass, the conspirators attacked and defeated his guards. The prince fell into their hands, and was put to death. Mahmood, hearing of this disaster, marched to Bulkh, and thence to Khwaruzm. On arriving at Khoozarbund, he ordered his general, Mahomed Bin-Ibraheem Taee, to proceed in advance. This detachment had scarcely crossed the frontier, when, one day while the Mahomedans were engaged in prayer, Khumar Tash, the general of the Khwaruzmians, rushed upon them from a neighbouring wood, and making a great slaughter, put the whole to flight. Mahmood received intelligence of this affair, and sent a considerable force, consisting of his personal guards, to their support, which inspiring Ibraheem Taee's party with courage, it rallied, and having routed the enemy, took their chief prisoner, and brought him before the King. Mahmood, found the Khwaruzmians prepared to receive him at Hazarasp; but they were soon defeated, their general Sipustugeen, a native of Bokhara, was taken prisoner, and the murderer of Abool-Abass suffered the punishment due to his crime. Mahmood spent some time in regulating the government, which he bestowed upon Altoon Tash Ameer Hajib, on whom he conferred the title of King of Khwarizm. He annexed, also, to his government, the province of Orkund. ### [6.4.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.4.7) Returning to Bulkh, Mahmood gave the government of Hirat to his son, the Prince Ameer Musaood, appointing Aboo-Soheil Mahomed, the son of Hoossein Zowzuny, his vizier; and the government of Goorkan he conferred on his younger son, the Prince Ameer Mahomed, under the tutelage of Aboo-Bukr Koohistany. After the final settlement of the affairs of Khwarizm, the Ghiznian army was placed in cantonment for the winter at Boost. In the spring of the year 409, Mahmood, with an army consisting of 100,000 chosen horse, and 20,000 foot, raised in the countries of Toorkistan, Mawur-ool-Nehr, Kliorassan, and the adjacent provinces, undertook an expedition against Kunowj, which, from the time of Gooshtasp, the father of Darab, till this period, had not been visited by any foreign enemy. Kunowj was distant from Ghizny three months' march, and seven formidable rivers intervened. When Mahmood reached the confines of Kashmeer, the prince, whom he had established in that country, sent him presents of all that was curious and valuable in his kingdom, and was directed to accompany the army. The King, with much difficulty, conducted his troops a long and tedious march, till he entered the plains of Hindoostan, and driving all opposition before him, advanced to Kunowj. ### [6.4.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.4.8) He there saw a city which raised its head to the skies, and which in strength and beauty might boast of being unrivalled. The Indian prince of this rich city was Koowur-Ray. He affected great state and splendour, but being thus unexpectedly invaded, had not time to put himself in a posture of defence, or to collect his troops. Terrified by the great force, and the formidable appearance of the invaders, he resolved to sue for peace; and accordingly going out, with his family, to the camp, he submitted himself to Sooltan Mahmood. The author of the Hubeeboos Seer relates that he even embraced the Mahomedan faith. The King of Ghizny remained in Kunowj only three days, and then marched towards Merut, the raja of which place, Hurdut, retreated with his army, and left only a small garrison, which capitulated in a few days, agreeing to pay 250,000 silver deenars, and to deliver up thirty elephants. The King marched from thence to the fort of Muhavun, on the banks of the river Jumna. Koolchund, the Raja of Muhavun, having come forth to make his submission at the head of his troops, a quarrel accidently arose between some of the soldiers of both armies, and a fight ensued, in which most of the Hindoos were driven into the river. The Raja, in despair, slew his own wife and children on the spot, and then turned the point of his sword on himself. The fort subsequently surrendering, the conqueror obtained much treasure and booty, amongst which were 80 elephants. ### [6.4.9](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.4.9) Mahmood having refreshed his troops, and understanding that at some distance stood the rich city of Mutra, consecrated to Krishn-Vas-dew, whom the Hindoos venerate as an emanation of God; directed his march thither, and entering it with little opposition from the troops of the Raja of Dehly, to whom it belonged, gave it up to plunder. He broke down or burnt all the idols, and amassed a vast quantity of gold and silver, of which the idols were mostly composed. He would have destroyed the temples also, but he found the labour would have been excessive; while some say that he was averted from his purpose by their admirable beauty. He certainly extravagantly extolled the magnificence of the buildings and city in a letter to the governor of Ghizny, in which the following passage occurs: — “There are here a thousand edifices as firm as the faith of the faithful; most of them of marble, besides innumerable temples; nor is it likely this city has attained its present "condition but at the expence of many millions of deenars, nor could such another be constructed under a period of two centuries." ### [6.5.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.5.1) Among the temples at Mutra were found five golden idols, whose eyes were of rubies, valued at 50,000 deenars. On another idol was found a sapphire, weighing 400 miskals, and the image itself, being melted down, produced 98,300 miskals of pure gold; besides these images there were above 100 idols of silver, which loaded as many camels. The King tarried in Mutra 20 days; in which time the city suffered greatly from fire, beside the damage it sustained by being pillaged. At length he continued his march along the course of a stream on whose banks were seven strong fortifications, all of which fell in succession: there were also discovered some very ancient temples, which, according to the Hindoos, had existed for 4000 years. Having sacked these temples and forts, the troops were led against the fort of Munj. This fort was full of Rajpoots, who held out 25 days; but finding the place no longer tenable, some rushed through the breaches on the enemy, and met that death which they no longer endeavoured to avoid; others threw themselves headlong from the walls, and were dashed to pieces; and others, again, burned themselves in their houses, with their wives and children, so that not one of the garrison survived. ### [6.5.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.5.2) Mahmood, having secured what was valuable, next invested the fort of Raja Chundpal. But he had sent off all his treasure to the mountains, and at the approach of the King evacuated the place; there, however, still remained much spoil and provisions, which Mahmood divided amongst his troops. ### [6.5.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.5.3) Mahmood from hence marched against another raja, whose name was Chundur Ray. This prince, after some skirmishes, finding himself unable to cope with the Mahomedans, sent off his treasure and other valuable effects, and fled to the mountains. Chundur Ray had an elephant of uncommon size, such as had never before been seen in Hindoostan, which was not more remarkable for its enormous bulk than for its docility and courage. Mahmood, having heard much of this elephant, sent to the Raja, offering him advantageous terms of peace, and a great sum of money for this animal. The pride of Chundur Ray did not permit him to listen to terms with Mahomedans, so that Mahmood was disappointed. The elephant, however, happened one night to break loose from his keepers, and went into the Ghiznevide camp, where it permitted itself to be mounted and brought before the King, who called it Khooda-dad, "The gift of God," because it came by accident into his hands. Mahmood, loaded with spoil and encumbered with captives, returned to Ghizny, where he caused the objects of his plunder to be displayed. They consisted of 40,000,000 of dirms of gold and silver bullion, 5300 captives, 350 elephants, besides jewels, pearls, and precious effects, which could not be properly estimated. Nor was the private spoil of the army less than that which came into the public treasury. ### [6.5.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.5.4) The King, on his return, ordered a magnificent mosque to be built of marble and granite, of such beauty as struck every beholder with astonishment, and furnished it with rich carpets, and with candelabras and other ornaments of silver and gold. This mosque was universally known by the name of the Celestial Bride. In its neighbourhood the King founded an university, supplied with a vast collection of curious books in various languages. It contained also a museum of natural curiosities. For the maintenance of this establishment he appropriated a large sum of money, besides a sufficient fund for the maintenance of the students, and proper persons to instruct youth in the arts and sciences. ### [6.5.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.5.5) When the nobility of Ghizny perceived the taste of their king evince itself in architecture, they also endeavoured to vie with each other in the magnificence of their private palaces, as well as in public buildings which they raised for the embellishment of the city. Thus, in a short time, the capital was ornamented with mosques, porches, fountains, reservoirs, aqueducts, and cisterns, beyond any city in the East. Some authors affirm, that among the curiosities which the King brought from India, was a bird resembling a dove, which possessed the peculiar faculty of discovering poison however secretly conveyed into any apartment in which the bird lived. It is said, on such occasions. the bird was affected with the smell of the poison in such a way, as to fly distractedly about its cage, while tears streamed involuntarily from the eyes. This bird, with other curiosities, was sent as a present to the Caliph of Bagdad, Alkadir Billa. Other authors mention a stone that he brought from Hindoostan, which being dipped in water and applied to wounds, proved efficacious in healing them. The King, in the year 410, caused an account of his exploits to be written and sent to the Caliph, who ordered it to be read to the people of Bagdad, making a great festival upon the occasion, expressive of his joy at the propagation of the faith. ### [6.5.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.5.6) In the year 412, a petition was presented from his subjects, setting forth, that some tribes of Arabs had for many years interrupted the communication with Mecca, so that for fear of them, and on account of the weakness of the Caliph, who neglected to expel them, and whose power had long since declined, pilgrims were unable to pay their devotions at the shrine of the Prophet. The King immediately appointed Aboo-Mahomed, the Kazy-ool-Koozat, with a considerable force, to accompany a kafila, proceeding to Mecca, with a strong escort. But, lest the enemy should be too strong for him, he sent 30,000 dirms to procure a safe journey to the pilgrims. Accordingly many thousand individuals of all classes prepared to depart. ### [6.5.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.5.7) Having reached the desert of Keid, they beheld a large encampment of Arabs pitched on their route. This banditti drew up to oppose the pilgrims. Aboo-Mahomed, being desirous of treating with them, sent a message to their chief offering him 5000 dirms. The chief, Humad Bin Ally, instead of accepting the proposal, resented it so much, that, without delay, he advanced to attack the kafila. Aboo-Mahomed, in the mean time, drew out his troops, when, fortunately, in the very beginning of the action, a Turkish slave in the kafila, well skilled in archery, lodged an arrow in the brain of Humad Bin Ally. The Arabs, on the fall of their chief, fled ; and the kafila, without further molestation, proceeded to Mecca, where having paid their devotions, they returned by the same route, and arrived at Ghizny. ### [6.5.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.5.8) Mahmood received this year advices from India that the neighbouring princes had, in his absence, attacked Koowur Ray, the Raja of Kunowj, for entering into alliance with the King, and placing himself in subjection to him. Mahmood immediately marched to his aid, but before he arrived, Nunda Ray, Raja of Kalunjur, having besieged Kunowj, slew Koowur Ray, with a number of his principal chiefs. Mahmood arrived at the Jumna, and was surprised to find that the Raja of Lahore, who had so often fled before his troops, was now encamped on the opposite bank ; but the deep and formidable river prevented an immediate attack. In this state of anxiety, eight of the royal guard of Mahmood's army, without orders, swam across, and entering the enemy's camp one morning by surprize, struck such a panic into his troops, that the Hindoos betook themselves to flight. The King, notwithstanding their success, reprobated the rashness of his guards, but supporting them with the remainder of his army, went in pursuit. It is not to be supposed, however, that eight individuals could succeed in routing a whole host, nor can it be doubted that these eight persons were officers, each followed by his own corps. ### [6.5.9](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.5.9) Nunda Ray, of Kalunjur, took post on the frontiers of his dominions, where he halted with his army to oppose Mahmood, having with him 36,000 horse, 45,000 foot, and 640 elephants. The King of Ghizny having reconnoitred the enemy from a rising ground, prostrated himself before God, and prayed that the standard of Islam might be successful. The day being far advanced, he determined to wait till next morning, which delay, in the event, disappointed his hopes, for Nunda Ray decamped during the night in the utmost disorder, leaving behind him his tents, equipage, and baggage. Mahmood having reconnoitred the ground, and finding it really deserted, ordered his army to march into the enemy's camp. The booty was great, independently of 580 elephants, which were found in the neighbouring woods. Having laid waste the country with fire and sword, the Mahomedan army returned to Ghizny. About this time the King learned that the inhabitants of two hilly tracts denominated Kuriat and Nardein, continued the worship of idols, and had not embraced the faith of Islam. This country lies apparently between Toorkistan and Hindoostan, and though its climate is extremely cold, it is remarkable for the excellence of its fruits. Mahmood resolved to carry the war against these infidels, and accordingly marched towards their country, taking with him a number of masons, carpenters, smiths, and labourers, to build a fort in order to overawe them after his departure. ### [6.5.10](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.5.10) The ruler of the country of Kuriat, unable to oppose the King, submitted, at the same time acknowledging the faith of the Prophet. The Ghiznevide general, Ameer Ally, the son of Arslan Jazib, was now sent with a division of the army to reduce Nardein, which he accomplished, pillaging the country, and carrying away many of the people captives. In Nardein was a temple, which Ameer Ally destroyed, bringing from thence a stone on which were curious inscriptions, and which, according to the Hindoos, must have been 40,000 years old. The King ordered a fort to be built in that place, and left it under the command of Amir-Bin Kuddur Suljooky. Shortly after, Mahmood marched in the direction of Kashmeer, and on the route invested the strong hold of Lokote, but finding it altogether impregnable, he decamped, and proceeding to Lahore, entered that city without opposition, giving it over to be sacked by his troops. Here wealth, and precious effects, beyond the power of calculation, fell into his hands. The Prince of Lahore, unable to contend with so powerful an adversary, fled to Ajmere for protection; and Mahmood, having appointed one of his officers to the government, and nominated other commanders to various districts in the territories of Hindoostan, himself returned in the spring to Ghizny. ### [6.6.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6.6.1) The warlike disposition of Mahmood could not long remain at peace. He marched again by the way of Lahore, in the 414th year of the Hijra, against Nunda Ray of Kalunjur, and passing by the fort of Gualiar, he ordered it to be besieged. The Raja of Gualiar, however, prevailed on him to remove his army, by a seasonable application of rich presents, and thirty-five elephants. The army now marched against Kalunjur, and having invested that city, Nunda Ray offered 300 elephants besides other presents to obtain peace. The King agreed to the terms, and the Raja, in order to put the bravery of the Sooltan's troops to the test, intoxicated the elephants with drugs, and let them loose, without riders, into the camp. Mahmood seeing the animals advance, and perceiving their condition, by the wildness of their manner, ordered a party of his best horse to seize, or kill them, or to drive them from the camp. Some of the Tartars, emulous of displaying their bravery in the presence of their king, fearlessly approached, and mounted some of the elephants, and drove the rest into an adjacent wood, where they were all soon reduced to obedience. _First 45 of 82 passages. [Read on](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6)_ --- Source: [https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.general.tarikh-i-firishta~en-briggs.6) · Pramāṇa