The Rashīdī History 244.5

244.5

All easy methods are now out of question. Nothing but difficulties remain. If any one can suggest an easier solution, let him speak." Kámrán Mirza said: "We have now with us nearly 200,000 householders [khána-wár mardum]. Should the advice just offered be acted upon, and the attempt fail, it is probable that all this multitude will be destroyed. It is, therefore, better that the Emperor and the Mirzás should go unencumbered, either to the hills or to Kashmir, leaving their families to be conducted to Kábul by me. Having safely disposed of the families, I will return to join the army." All were bewildered by this suggestion and asked themselves, "What has now become of our oath of union? What are these sentiments? Who would think of sending his family to Kabul and himself remaining without baggage? Between Lahur and Kabul there are rivers, highway robbers, and mountains. The Mirza's scheme is quite impracticable." Although much discussion followed, Kámrán Mirzá did not carry a single point. Thus [ostensible] desires for union were shown to be hypocrisy, and the meeting broke up. But time passed, and meanwhile Shir Khan had reached the banks of the river of Sultánpur. Every man chose a place of retreat for himself. The Emperor consulted with me in this exigency, and I again respectfully represented that I still held by the Kashmir plan.