The Rashīdī History 202.8

202.8

One day Rashid Sultan said to me : "Although formerly in Moghulistán, in accordance with the Moghul usage, and by the Khan's express command, there existed between us close friendship, and we used to give each other horses, nevertheless this fellowship was not confirmed by any vow. I am now desirous of renewing the old friendship and of ratifying it by solemn oaths." I too showed my willingness, and the conditions of our covenant were that, on my side, as long as the Khán should live, I would remain in his service ; but if the Khan were to die, I would serve no one but him [Rashid Sultan] — and serve him in the Khan's place, as he had served the Khan. Rashid Sultan said : "After the Khan, I look upon you as my eldest brother. If, in public, you reverence me in the place of the Khan, I in private will honour you as you deserve, and will show you even greater kindness and favour than did the Khan. I will give such offices to your uncle and relations as you may judge best." And all this we confirmed with binding oaths. [Two couplets]. . . .