Siyar al-mutaʾakhkhirin 12.17.9

12.17.9

Mustapha-qhan in particular, who was a proficient in that duplicity which seems essential to the character of an Afghan, spoke by the way so artfully, and he made such an impression on the heart of Aaly-bha, as induced him to expect the most flattering reception. These sentiments were seconded by Aaly-verdy-qhan himself, who in his speech and manners was at all times the most winning of men; and he worked so effectually upon that officer's mind, by his gracious deportment, and his bewitching way of expressing himself, that he made an entire conquest of his heart. Rich presents perfected what sweet words had commenced; and finding now that the man was persuaded, he sent him back to his master, in company with Mustapha-qhan; and both these officers so effectually beset Bha-sukur, and so strongly exhorted him to shake off the suspicions he had harboured in his mind, that the man became a convert, as was already his envoy. Whilst the negotiation was going on, and ingredients were throwing in the river to disguise the colour of its water, Aaly-verdy-qhan did not cease to cultivate the Marhatta's good disposition by plying him incessantly with everything curious, costly, or delicious, either in stuffs or in fruits, whether of the growth of Bengal, or imported from abroad;