Siyar al-mutaʾakhkhirin 12.7.12

12.7.12

nothing being uglier in a man of command, than to sophisticate his word, and nothing more dangerous in a Sovereign, than to let it transpire that there is no truth and no fidelity in his promises. An attachment to his word will at all times gain the hearts of his dependants and even of all mankind, will enforce his authority, and inspire the world with a respectful awe for his person. But this breach of promise in the Viceroy, odious as it was, was not the only grievance of which the Afghans had to complain ; they also complained of the death of the Afghan Commander, Roshen-qhan, who for a very unadequate misdemeanour of his had been precipitately put to death by the young Viceroy of Azim-abad, although he was a military Commander of eminence, and a Fodjdar or military ruler of the province of Shah-abad, and of the whole country of Bodjpur. So unjust, so hasty an execution had been resented by all the Afghans in the service, and the general cry had been, that it was an ugly action that needed no commentary. But as if all these subjects of discontent had not sufficiently operated on their minds, the Viceroy had added another of late, which gave general offence, and in particular sunk deep in Mustapha-qhan's mind.