Shri Shiv Chatrapati Caritr 25.4

25.4

Hither the Maharaja called a war council of his principal officers, as Afzal was approaching Wai, and put the following questions for their deliberation and decision, — "What method should be adopted in fighting the Khan? What plan should be made? Men will be spoilt, if they tried to find out the Mughal army and fight a pitched battle. The army should be cleverly kept intact and the enemy harassed" * * Deeming this counsel wise, the Maharaja prayed to the goddess and she took possession of his body and said, — "Oh my child! why dost thou feel so troubled? Thou hast my blessings. I will remove thy difficulties and I will give thee success in this hunting expedition also. Do not be anxious." In this manner did the goddess encourage him. Balaji Avji Chitnis and Vaknis had been told to record in private the message of the goddess, when she should take possession of the Maharaja's body, and to communicate it (afterwards to the Raje). Accordingly he communicated to the Raje what he had said after the divine possession. The Raje was greatly pleased and said, — "I shall presently finish Afzal's business. There is no anxiety. As the goddess has assured, victory will attend (my efforts). I feel exulted in my heart and there appear other auspicious auguries. My officers and men also seem to be sanguine." As the Maharaja finished his speech, every one observed that what the Maharaja wanted to do did not seem difficult to them. "What was this affair of Afzal?