The Book of Akbar 256.1

256.1

When the arrival of M. Kamran at the borders of Kabul was approaching, a number of the loyal and farseeing represented that there should be a limit to simplicity and optimistic views of persons. Seeing that the fraud, lying and disaffection of this ingrate had been tested many times, it was right and proper that caution should not be thrown away again, and that the army should be ordered to march out, and the banners of victory be unfurled for the suppression of the rebellious. If indeed the Mirza had repented of his evil deeds, and had entered on the path of concord, and were desirous of doing homage, he would receive distinction from the royal favour (in going out to welcome him), and if on this occasion also he was persistent in perversity, the rules of precaution would be observed on our side. On hearing these weighty words His Majesty determined to march towards Ghurband, which was the Mirza’s route, and he set out in that direction in the middle of 957 (June-July, 1550). He left His Majesty the Shahanshah as prince in Kabul and put Qasim Khan Berlas at the head of affairs. Qaraca Khan, Musahib Beg and many others, white without and black within, who were always stirring up strife, were rejoiced and wrote seditious letters to M. Kamran, pressing him to come to Kabul and saying that they, and many others, would welcome him and would disperse the King’s well-wishers by unfitting suggestions, and that Kabul would easily fall into his hands.