The Rashīdī History 182.3

182.3

With the extinction of Mirzá Abá Bakr's power, the region should again fall within its original [kingdom of Badakhshán]. Everything returns to its prime origin. [Mirzá] Khán also contended as follows : " In consequence of Mirzá Abá Bakr's conquests, this country was cut off from its ancient attachment and was, for twelve years, under the jurisdiction of Káshghar. The Emperor, with the help of his brave troops, delivered into my power the regions usurped by Mirzá Abá Bakr. If you desire to have this kingdom it will be necessary, in the first place (on account of my relationship to the Emperor), that I should send him a salutation and beg him to despatch an army to assist me, as I am too weak [to act independently]. . . . When so requested he may answer : ' that country which I have unlocked with the key of conquest, you may take possession of without fear.' " After informal communications, such as these, had passed between [the two Khans] the matter was finally concluded by the Khan marching against Badakhshán.