Firishta's History (Gulshan-i Ibrāhīmī) 89.1.5

89.1.5

Kumal Khan, after thus settling the affairs of the kingdom, continued regent for some time. Meanwhile, Duria Khan and Fukhr-ool-Moolk dying, he divided their jageers among his own relatives and dependents, besides procuring for them honours and public employment. At the same time he deprived Mirza Jehangeer and Heidur Beg of some pergunas from their estates, to bestow upon his followers. The lands of all officers who died, or of persons convicted of treason, were confiscated, and he gave them to his own creatures. By these means Kumal Khan increased his power so greatly, that at last he became giddy with his elevated station, and his evil genius prompted him to form schemes for seizing the crown. The ambition of treacherous ministers had already proved fatal to the lawful kings of the Deccan. Timraj was the first usurper: he had poisoned the young Raja of Beejanuggur, son of Shew Ray, had rendered his infant brother the tool of his designs, and, by degrees, overthrowing the ancient nobles, he at length established his authority over the kingdom. Kasim Bereed and others had reduced Mahmood Shah II. to a mere pageant, and at length caused their own names to be read in the Khootba: Kumal Khan, also, tempted by these successful examples, having obtained the requisite means for assuming independence, addressed himself artfully to Ameer Bereed. He observed, that if he wished to extend his possessions, a favourable opportunity now offered itself.