The Book of Akbar 278.2

278.2

Acting on the evil teaching of their huckster-natured officers,—who looked to nothing but their own profit,—most of the servants and soldiers left their masters and set out for Kabul. Except officers, none remained to serve His Majesty. By this shameful conduct,—far removed from the path of loyalty and obedience,—the composure of the noble soul was disturbed. He ordered the trusty by all means to turn back the men and not to hesitate, if necessary, to put any to death. Meanwhile he sought an omen from the glorious Koran. It chanced that the story of the faithful Joseph came up. These who had leave to speak, set themselves to explain this and considered it carefully. Khw. Husain of Merv submitted that what had been said about Kashmir,—viz., that it was like a well or a prison,—was true; for the story of Joseph names both these things. When disunion showed itself amongst those with him, His Majesty, being compelled to abandon his intention, moved towards Kabul. When he was encamped on the Indus, M. Kamran petitioned to be allowed to go to the Hijaz. As His Majesty was now desirous of giving him pleasure, he consented. On the night of dismissing the Mirza on his journey, he went with a number of chosen followers to his quarters. After paying due respects, the Mirza recited this verse. The fold of the poor man's turban brushes the sky, When the shadow of a monarch like thee falls on his head. Later on, this verse was on his tongue;—