The Book of Akbar 278.3

278.3

Whatever comes on my life from thee is cause for thanks,— Be it shaft of cruelty or dagger of tyranny. Although the second couplet inclines to thanks, a critic can see that it runs over with censure. His Majesty who was a world of compassion and gentleness, took no heed of this but expressed commiseration. With his inspired tongue he said, “He who knoweth secrets and things hidden, is aware how much ashamed I am of this thing which did not come about with my goodwill. Would that you had done it to me ere this happened.” The Mirza woke from the slumber of negligence and comprehended both the measure of his crimes and the extent of the princely mercies. He fell into a state of shame and supplication and asked Haji Yusuf what persons were present. Haji Yusuf named them, viz., Tardi Beg Khan, Mun‘im Khan, Babus Beg, Khw. Husain of Merv, Mir ‘Abdal-hai, Mir ‘Abdu-l-lah, Khanjar Beg and ‘Arif Beg. The Mirza said, “Friends, be ye all witnesses that if I knew myself innocent, I would assert the fact at this time of distinction when His Majesty visits me; but I am certain I was worthy of death. He has granted me life and has given me leave to depart to the Hijaz. For the beneficence and favour of His Majesty, I offer a thousand thanks because he has not exacted retribution commensurate with my wickedness and misconduct.” After this he passed on to recommendations for his children. His Majesty gladly promised to care for them.