The Book of Jahāngīr's Fortune 16.1.3

16.1.3

When his voice reached my ear, I drew my sword, and went out of the tent. When he saw me, he addressed me by name, and asked after His Majesty. I saw that he had with him about 100 Rajputs on foot, carrying spears and shields, and leading his horse in the midst of them; but the dust prevented me from seeing any one’s face distinctly. He hastened to the chief entrance, and I entered the state-apartment by a side door. I saw a few men of the guard in the state-room, and three or four eunuchs standing at the door of the bath-room. Mahabat Khan rode to the door of the state-room, and alighted. When he proceeded towards the bath-room, he had about 200 Rajputs with him. I then went forward, and in my simplicity exclaimed, “This presumption and temerity is beyond all rule; if you will wait a minute, I will go on in, and make a report.” He did not trouble himself to answer. When he reached the entrance of the bath-room, his attendants tore down the boards which the door-keepers had put up for security, and threw them into the middle of the state-room. The servants who were in attendance on His Majesty informed him of this daring action. The Emperor then came out, and took his seat in a palki which was in waiting for him. Mahabat Khan advanced respectfully to the door of the palki, and said, “I have assured myself that escape from the malice and implacable hatred of Asaf Khan is impossible, and that I shall be put to death in shame and ignominy.