The Book of Akbar 250.3

250.3

He wrote as follows. “Know, O men of the fort, that salvation is in sincerity and safety in submission, and peace be upon whoever followeth the right path.” When M. Kamran had understood the purport of this writing, he wrote back by the same method that he would submit to whatever the Mir should order. His Majesty Jahanbani, inasmuch as kindness and benevolence were of his nature’s essence, sent off the Mir, who proceeded to the fort and expounded the doctrines of verity which in reason’s reservoir are more sweet than limpid streams, but more bitter to the sensual taste than the juice of the colocynth. In his exposition and application he did not leave out a single point, and at every sentence of reproof the Mirza, as he had received a lesson from the crapulous headaches following on his debauches, held down the head of submission and cried, “I've sinned, I've sinned, I'll do whatever you order.” The Mir said, “The atonement is that you arise and with a sincere soul and contrite heart come with me and do homage.” The Mirza, either from sincerity or deceit set off, but when they got near the gate, the Mir, who could perceive the temporary nature of the feelings, became aware that they were without root.