Muntakhab al-lubab 10: Condition of the Emperor Shah Jahan.

10

[vol. ii. p. 20.] The hot climate of Agra did not agree with the Emperor, and as he had only slightly improved in health, he set off for Dehli. Dara Shukoh from the first disapproved of this removal, and spoke against it. Now when he had heard of the defeat of Raja Jaswant Singh, he was bewildered, and so worried his father with complaints and importunities, that he prevailed upon him to return. With the greatest urgency he made preparations for the coming conflict, and began his march with all the great nobles of his father's suite, with the old and newly raised followers of his own amounting to about 60,000 men, and with a strong train of artillery. * * It is said that the Emperor repeatedly forbad the march of Dara Shukoh, and said that nothing would come of it but further strife and contention between the brothers. He conceived the idea of setting out himself to expostulate with the two brothers, and bring about a peace, and gave orders that preparations should be made for his journey. But Dara Shukoh was averse to this, and being supported in his representations by Khan-Jahan Shayista Khan, he diverted his father from his purpose. It is also recorded that before the news arrived of Raja Jaswant's defeat, and before the two armies of the Dakhin and Ahmadabad had united, the Emperor desired to go towards them, and frequently consulted Khan-Jahan about it. Khan-Jahan was maternal uncle of Aurangzeb, and was well disposed towards him. He did not approve of the Emperor's design, but spoke of the excellent character and intelligence of Aurangzeb out of the hearty kindness he felt for him. When the intelligence arrived of the defeat of Raja Jaswant Singh, the Emperor was very angry with Khan-Jahan for the part he had taken. He struck him on the breast with his staff, and refused to see him for some two or three days. But his old feeling of kindness revived. He again consulted him about going forth to meet his sons; but the Khan gave the same advice as before, so that, notwithstanding the preparations, the intended journey ended in nothing.