The Rashīdī History 143.4

143.4

When the Emperor retired to Samarkand discomfited, and then again departed [being unable to remain there], I was in a state of convalescence ; nevertheless, I continued to follow him to Hisar. The Khan sent messengers several times to the Emperor to fetch me, and at last, displeased and irritated, he gave me leave to go. In my childish folly I did not (as it was my duty to do) pay attention to the Emperor's consent [but determined to go to Andijan]. Thus, on the arrival of Mir Najm, the Emperor mounted his horse and joined the expedition, while I set out for Andijan. I have already mentioned how the Emperor joined Mir Najm. I [as I say] went to Andijan ; but before reaching my destination, the Khan had been put to rout by Suyunjuk Khan, and returned to Andijan just as I arrived there. This occurred in Rajab of the year 918. From that date to the day of the Khán's death, in Zulhijja 939, I remained constantly in his service, and was all the while distinguished by his regard and liberality. In short, until he conferred upon me the rank of Kurkani, I was never absent from him. At night, whereever his bed was spread, one was also spread for my convenience, at his side. At royal banquets, the right hand of my fortune was joined to the left hand of the Khán's favour. Whenever a consultation was held, my uncle was sure to be at the head of the meeting [sar-i-daftar], but he gave me precedence over my uncle;