Shri Shiv Chatrapati Caritr 45.6

45.6

Then Vyankaji wrote to Bijapur, — "My elder brother demands a share of the patrimony and I have answered that the property is in lieu of service. Why should I give him any share?" The Badshah answered his letter to the following effect, — "We have learnt the purport of your letter. Sahaji Raje served us faithfully and the Sanad was granted to him and his descendants. Sivaji now demands his share. Although a traitor, he is a Government servant and we are quite able to demand explanation of him. Why do you create family squabbles and bring trouble to the Government ? If we write that you should not give him his share he will commit disturbance in our territories [313] and that is not good. His father was our servant and he will enjoy the ancestral property and serve us. Although an enemy, if he demands his rights as a servant in a friendly manner you should certainly surrender them. He is the senior owner of your patrimony." * * * But some Muhammadans encouraged him in the following manner — Sivaji is a rebel. The Badshah is afraid of that devil but we are your servants ; and if you decide on war we are here present to die for you. Fight you should, for once at least, and see who wins and who loses.