Shri Shiv Chatrapati Caritr 23.5

23.5

Think out what to do." Thereupon it was decided by all that the Raja was a man of rank. He was in the service of the Government and present at the court, He could not possibly be guilty of such an offence. (If politely asked by some of his intimate friends he might frankly tell the fact.) So Baji Rav Ghorpade Mudholkar and Sarja Khan, these two men of rank and honour, were sent for and told what had happened. They were also informed of the pleasure of the Government, — " The Raja is a general of high rank, and it is not proper to dishonour him. You are well-wishers of the Raja, you [139] should ask him whether he thinks it well to create rebellion through his son, while he himself stays at the court." (After this Sivaji plundered the Bijapur territories and thereupon the Sultan summoned Sahajl to the presence and rebuked him for his conduct.) * * * * (When the Nawab was desired to arrest the Raja he excused himself on the ground of his friendship with Sahajl. Ghorpade however was ready to carry out the order of his master on the promise of promotion. Dreading however Sahaji's power, and uncertain whether he should succeed in an open attempt, Baji Ghorpade decided to take recourse to treachery.) [143] The Badshah said to him,—"If you can bring the Raja a prisoner your fame will increase and you shall be promoted." Thereupon Ghorpade agreed. The handle of the axe proves the destruction of its kin. Similar was the case on this occasion.