Tarikh-i Hindi 16.3

16.3

In this year Nizamu-l Mulk, on the condition of subduing the enemy, was appointed governor of Agra and Malwa. Proceeding through Bundelkhand, he reached the latter province, and a battle was fought with the enemy near the town of Bhopal, founded by Dost Muhammad Khan, whose eldest son, Yar Muhammad Khan, is still ruling over it with wisdom and equity. As the crooked mind of Nizamu-l Mulk was bent towards such things as were contrary to what his name imports, viz. administration, he allowed disturbances to break out in the country, and with his eyes open suffered for one or two days grain to be sold in his camp one sir for a rupee. On account of the tumults and quarrels raised by him, many people were hastened to their graves with the stroke of starvation, and many Musulmans, by the tricks of that unprincipled man, fell into the hands of the enemy, and met with their destruction. At last, on being informed of this, Muhammad Shah sent orders appointing Baji Rao to the governorship of Malwa. Nizamu-l Mulk, reproached by the people, and deceived by the enemy, returned to the capital. The Mahrattas laid siege to the fort of Kota; and the Maharao Raja fled away in alarm, and took refuge in Gagrun, which is one of the strongest forts in that part of the country. The inhabitants of Kota, to preserve their honour, opposed the ravagers and saved the city.