The Book of Akbar 341.4

341.4

Let nothing be said now of virility, truth, loyalty, devotion and sincerity, but take hold of the thread of prudence—the safeguard of the generality of mankind—and repent of your deeds and amend your evil-doings by good service; send that camel-driver’s son to Court, so that we may regard your deeds as not done, and exalt you by royal favours. If through folly and immodesty you obey not the royal commands, your punishment will be cast into your bosom, that it may be a warning to other short-sighted and intoxicated ones.” Meanwhile, as the intoxication and evil nature of ‘Ali Quli Khan became more and more manifest, the world-adorning mind determined that a number of brave men should be settled in his neighbourhood, so that he might be removed from his unique position and absolute power, and yet not have the veil of his honour rent. For this reason the town of Sandila (in Oudh) was given in fief to Sultan Husain Khan Jalair. That wicked one (Khan Zaman) had of his own authority given this town to Ism‘ail Khan the son of Ibrahim Khan, Uzbeg and a near relation of his own. Whenever the head of a party engages in evil and disloyalty, his followers necessarily become void of auspiciousness. Consequently Ism‘ail Khan did not give up the pargana but proceeded to resist. Sultan Husain Khan, being backed by such a lord of fortune took it from him by force, and the latter took refuge with ‘Ali Quli Khan, and came against him with a large army.