The Book of Akbar 49: Capture of Hajipur. (See Vol. V. p. 377.)

49

[Text, vol. iii. p. 75.] Khan-i 'Alam procured a number of experienced pilots, and embarking in boats on the evening of the 24th Amurdad, the pilots conducted the force across the river so cleverly that the enemy knew nothing of it. Then they ascended the small stream which parts from the Ganges and flows past Hajipur. The enemy, greatly astonished at the sight, opened a furious fire of cannon and musketry, and the assailants were on the point of being defeated. A number of ghrdhs which the Emperor had near him were now sent to their support. The enemy endeavoured to stop them, but they were unable to make way against the stream, and failed in the attempt. The royal boats then proceeded to Hajipur by the river Gandak. They were met with a very heavy fire, but could not be stopped, and disembarking they made an assault upon the place. It was captured after some severe fighting. Some rascals set the town on fire, and began to plunder; but the forts were taken possession of by the royal forces.