Shri Shiv Chatrapati Caritr 25.7

25.7

The envoy went to his quarters. The next day the Raje called the envoy in private and thus addressed him, — "You are a Brahman and a good man. My aim is to found a Maharashtra Empire. Our religion has been overthrown, gods and Brahmans are troubled, the Mlechchhas are supreme everywhere, every one is oppressed, my aim is to remove this state of things. If you are favourable to this idea, then tell me frankly what is in the mind of the Khan, what is his real design. I have no other question to ask you." In this manner did the Raje respectfully address the envoy. He was a Brahman, the Raja wanted to be the defender of his faith. His good luck, valour, and men were all wonderful. His virtue and energy were also wonderful. Therefore it seemed probable that his power would wax stronger. So he said, "The Khan wants to give you such assurances as may bring about a meeting. He is resolved to commit treachery in that interview." [Chitnis's account does not differ materially from that of Sabhasad on any important point. According to him, Sivaji's son and mother were at Pratapgad, and he had with him fifty-five attendants at the time of the interview. Chitnis gives the following account of the interview.]