Muntakhab al-lubab 97.4

97.4

Santa was delighted with the terms he had made with the defeated army. Soon afterwards he heard that Himmat Khan was approaching by forced marches to the relief of the besieged army. Santa divided his forces into two divisions, and marched to meet him. At the distance of sixteen kos the force under command of Santa fell in with Himmat Khan, and a great battle followed. Himmat Khan fought with great spirit and bravery. Numberless Mahrattas were slain, and many of his own army perished. Santa's forces retreated, and the royal forces were led against the second army. Himmat Khan made arrangements for the pursuit. By orders of Santa many musketeers had taken positions in the thick jungle and among the trees, to impede the advance of Himmat Khan. Some of the best marksmen had climbed the trees, and concealed themselves among the thick branches. When Himmat Khan approached, a ball entered his forehead and killed him immediately. All the baggage and elephants and munitions of war belonging to Himmat Khan then fell bodily into the hands of Santa.