The Book of Akbar 30: Adham Khan. (See Vol. V. p. 271.)

30

[Text, vol. ii. p. 181.] The folly and wilfulness of Adham Khan were well known. His mother, Maham Anka, had charge of the royal harem, and he now conspired with some of his mother's servants to carry off two of the beauties of Baz Bahadur, who had lately been presented to the Emperor. When every one was engaged in preparing for the march, and little heed was paid to what was going on, the abduction was effected. When this disgraceful action was made known to the Emperor, he sent two fast riders after the fugitives, who exerted themselves so well that they overtook them, and brought them back. Maham Anka, lest these two women should be brought into the presence of the Emperor, and expose her conduct and the villany of her son, had the two poor innocent girls put to death, for dead people tell no tales. His Majesty had not yet torn the veil from his eyes, so he passed over this heinous crime.