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Siyar al-mutaʾakhkhirin 14: SECTION VI. VOL. II.

A Translation of the Seir Mutaqherin (Haji Mustafa) 14

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English

Contents

SECTION VI. VOL. II.

14.1.1

The Government of Oressa given to a Gentoo, who is bubbled out of his post by the Fakirs in the Marhatta Rhago-dji's interest—Vigorous answer given by Aaly-verdy-qhan to the Marhatta's proposal—Rhago-dji rejoins—The refuged Afghans rescued, and taken into pay by the Marhattas—A coolness and then a sharp dialogue between the Governor of Azim-abad and Abdol-aaly-qhan—A sharp action between Aaly-verdy-qhan and the Marhattas—Another action in which Dost-mahmed-qhan, a new man, distinguishes himself—The Marhattas overthrown at Catwa with great slaughter—Aaly-verdy-qhan tired of the war—Treachery in the Afghans of the Bengal army, discovered—He celebrates the nuptials of his two grandsons, Seradj-ed-doula and Ecram-ed-doula—Some account of Mirza-yredj-qhan, father-in-law to Seradj-ed-doulah—Some account of Mir-djaafer-qhan and Ata-ollah-qhan conspire against Aaly-verdy-qhan—The conspiracy discovered and punished—The Marhattas defeated a fourth time—The Governor of Azim-abad aspires to independence, and takes the disbanded Afghans in his pay—Who conspire against him—And murder him—The Afghans spread throughout the city, which they plunder—The murderers resolved to stand their ground against Aaly-verdy-qhan—Affecting speech of the latter to his troops—He provides for his Capital, and marches to Azim-abad—Brave defence made by Din-mahmed — The Marhattas join the Afghans at Azim-abad.

14.1.2

Pretensions of the latter against them — Battle of Barr, near Azim-abad, where the murdering Generals are all slain, and their troops put to the sword — The Viceroy sends for the Ladies of the Afghan Generals, and treats them with the utmost decency — His extreme delicacy and generosity on their account. It must be remembered that Aaly-verdy-qhan had borne his part in the second campaign against Mustapha-qhan; and it was then that intelligence came to camp of Rhago-dji-bhoslah's having invaded the Oressa. This invasion was brought about in the following manner: — Abdol-resool-qhan, Governor of Oressa, had paid so much regard to the rupture between his uncle and Aaly-verdy-qhan, as to quit his post, and go over with his whole brigade to Mustapha-qhan's assistance. He had left the Government to a Naib or Deputy of his, which he appointed without, however, meddling with Radja Doolobram, who had been appointed his Agent-General by the Viceroy, and was son to a Prime Minister. Of course, on the Governor's desertion, the Government devolved on this Gentoo, to whom the Patent and insignia of Governor came from Moorzhood-abad soon after. But Doolobram was unfit for such an office. Scrupulously attached to his religious practices, he was much addicted to the company of Brahmans and Sanyassees, or Gentoo Fakyrs, who intirely governed him; whereas he seemed averse to the company of his military officers, most of whom were Mussulmen;

14.1.3

and it is observable that most of those Sanyassees were Rhago-dji-bhoslah's spies, who thereby receiving frequent intelligence of Doolobram's contemptible conduct, and of the weakness of his Government, erected his scheme upon that knowledge. He was confirmed in his resolution by letters which he then received from Mustapha-qhan, who invited him to a community of interests and warfare. The Marhatta Prince, who since his General's murder, was like an untrodden snake retired within its hole, from whence he watched the moment of revenge, looked upon this invitation as on a particular interposition from Heaven in his behalf. Putting himself therefore at the head of fourteen thousand horse, he marched towards Bengal, crossed the mountainous tracts betwixt his dominions and Oressa, and arrived on the frontiers of that country; whilst Dūlobram, meanly busy with his Sanyassees on the shore of the river, was kept in so gross an ignorance, that the enemy was close upon him, before he had suspected anything of the matter. Mir-abdol-aziz, that worthy officer, and venerable Seyd of Semana, of whom we have somewhile ago made mention, had somehow got intelligence of the enemies being close and at hand; and on the first intelligence, he got upon his horse, and went to Court immediately with about twenty troopers, that were at hand, giving orders to his people to mount, and follow him without loss of time.

14.1.4

Being arrived at Dūlobram's door, he found that he was asleep yet, and knew nothing of the Marhattas; and a full hour more was spent in waiting for his rising; meanwhile a general uproar having risen throughout the city of Catec, people began to fly and provide for their safety. It was then, and not sooner, that Dūlobram being awakened, came out half naked, and without a turbant, and in that condition, got into his Paleky, with intention to take shelter in the castle of Bhara-Bhaty, which was not far off. Mir-abdol-aziz was following him with the troops that were with him. They were advancing together, when at some distance, but still within the city, he stopped awhile to speak to one of his men, and on turning his head about, he saw some Marhatta troopers busy in stripping people, and Dūlobram on foot, endeavouring to skulk about some ruined houses; on sight of this, he ran forwards, and seizing him by the arm, he reproached him with his cowardice. "Why are you frightened," cried he, "and why do you render yourself contemptible? Get upon this horse, and follow me. These are no more than people intent on plunder and sac. Believe me, there is time yet to retire into the castle; and rest assured that I will not leave you here." Dūlobram, recovering from his fright, mounted upon his horse, and was immediately surrounded by the officer's troopers, who carried him safe to the gate of the castle.

14.1.5

Meanwhile some of Dūlobram's soldiers joined him, as did some detached soldiers from the other corps by a few at a time; so that in a little time he found himself with a good number of troops in and about the fortress. But Rhago-dji arriving a little after, besieged the castle immediately, and Dûlobram was now frightened in earnest; and being informed also that Aaly-verdy-qhan, his master, was gone on an expedition against Mustapha-qhan, he yielded to the intreaties and suggestions of the Sanyassees, who proposed to mediate an agreement; and he resolved to make himself easy, as he wanted no more than his life. With this view he held a consultation with his Commanders and officers. Some of these, out of compliment to their Governor, voted for an immediate surrender; and some thought it was too late to make any effectual resistance in so unprepared a station. But they were opposed by Mir-abdol-aziz and some others, who thought such a surrender dishonourable to their master, Aaly-verdy-qhan, and disgraceful to themselves; and they were for fighting and defending the place. Dûlobram inclined to an agreement; and he was deluded into it by his Sanyassees at last. After many days' conferences Dûlobram came out of the fortress, and went to pay a visit to the Marhatta Prince, accompanied by all his Commanders and officers, and even by a brother of Mir-abdol-aziz, who came out with ten or twelve of his men.

14.1.6

But that Commander himself, with three or four hundred of his soldiers, remained in the Fort, together with a number of towns-men who had taken shelter in it. Dûlobram, after his visit, wanted to return home; but was prevented by the Marhatta, who objected to his returning in the heat of the day, and desired his accepting of an entertainment prepared in a tent set up for his taking some rest; he also distributed the Governor's officers amongst his own Commanders, recommending their being handsomely used and entertained, like so many guests. The officers seeing an entertainment spread for them, soon laid down their arms, loosened their girdles, and having partaken of the entertainment, they retired to take some rest; but on their waking up they found themselves prisoners and in confinement; and every one of them repented, but too late, of his credulity. On hearing of this treachery, Mir-abdol-aziz assumed the command of the fortress, and prepared for its defence. The Prince disappointed, sent him his own brother, to persuade him to a surrender; and this brother was accompanied by envoys which Doolobram himself had sent to his people for the same purpose. Abdol-aziz answered his own brother in these terms : "Sir, tell Rhago-dji that at present I have neither brother nor master; we are servants to one Lord, who is Aaly-verdy-qhan the formidable in war. Some ungrateful cowards have gone over to you, and listened to your words;

14.1.7

but as for us, we shall defend this fortress, as becomes faithful soldiers, and as long as breath shall remain in our bosom; and this is our last resolution." The brave Commander proved as good as his word; and for a month and some days, he sustained a vigorous siege. These events were taking place, at the very time when the Viceroy of Bengal recalled by the solicitations of Nevazish-mahmed-qhan, his nephew, who announced Rhago-dji's invasion in the Oressa, had quitted his expedition of Azim-abad, to return to Bengal. Although he heard of Doolobram's being entrapped, and of Abdol-aziz's still defending himself, yet he forbore moving to his assistance, as he wanted to manage Rhago-dji, and had sent to him a gentleman, lately come from Delhi, called Munaam-aaly-qhan, a person of eloquence and abilities. Rhago-dji, ascribing such an unexpected step to conscious weakness, answered "That he could not return home, unless he was complemented with three Corors of rupees." The Viceroy embarrassed in his circumstances, spun out the negotiation to a length, until hearing of Mustapha-qhan's defeat, he first of all returned his humble acknowledgment to God Almighty, and then taking another stile with the Marhatta Prince, he turned a new leaf with him, and sent him the following message: An agreement brought about by dint of money, is the effect of either impotence, or some great hope.

14.1.8

As to the first, I inform you that by God's blessing, the intrepid warriors, those lions avide of slaughter and blood, are more covetous than ever of another engagement with you, and more desirous of fighting than hunters are of getting at their prey. And as to the second article, I must tell you, that they cannot expect any benefit from entering into a treaty with so unfortunate and so ill fated a Commander as you. Matters standing thus, the agreement you expect, cannot be brought about but by a battle, when the lions giddy with the fumes of an approaching slaughter, shall swim over the bloody plain, shall drag the crocodiles of Barar to the slaughter, and tinge the element with streams of their blood. Then, and not sooner, whoever shall have obtained the victory, will have it in his power to propose an agreement to his own mind. Rhago-dji on receiving this message, resolutely answered in these words. "I am come from a thousand cosses' distance to encamp in this corner of the dominions of your Majestuous Highness, and do not see that you have as yet moved so little as a hundred cosses to receive your guests." This answer produced the following reply: "What you observe is nothing but truth. However, the reason is that the rainy season is at hand; please therefore to take some rest;

14.1.9

and rest assured that, so soon as that season is over, I shall not only move to meet you, as my guest, but shall have the politeness to reconduct you as far as your own home." Rhago-dji, after this message, advanced towards Birbohom, where he took up his quarters; from hence by parties he brought under his power the whole province of Oressa as far as Midnipûr and Hedjly, together with great part of the Bardewan. All this while the brave Mir-abdol-aziz was defending the fortress of Bhara-bhaty; but the place being ill furnished for a long defence, and, above all, wanting provisions, he agreed to surrender it, on condition of having his person, honour, and baggage safe, as well as that of his people; and that none of them should be forced to take party with the Marhattas. This treaty was insured by a paper sent him by Rhago-dji under his hand and seal, and under the hands and seals of all his principal Commanders, who signed as guarantees to the performance of the articles. On these conditions he surrendered the fortress; and after having tarried a few days in the Marhatta camp, he took his leave of the Marhatta Prince, and went to Mûrshûd-abad. Dûlobram remained a prisoner one full year, or even some months more; nor was he released but by the mediation of some Bankers, who paid a ransom of three lacs of ruppes for him. After which he returned to Mûrshûd-abad, where the Viceroy repaid the money to his father, a Minister with whose faithful services he was perfectly satisfied.

14.2.1

Whilst the Marhatta Prince was encamped in the Birbohum, there came letters and petitions from Mûrteza-qhan and Bûlend-qhan, and the other Afghan officers who had taken shelter in the mountains of Macri-cogh after the loss of the battle. The Zemindars of those parts had suffered them to build themselves huts in those mountains, but cast a wishful eye upon some of those things which those refugees had been able to bring with them. On the other hand, the Zemindars of Sarseram, named Pahluvan-sing, and Sot-hur-sing, had received letters from the Governor of Bahar, which recommended their taking care, that those refugees should not find means to escape. But by this time, the Afghans tired with living in a country infested with myriads of snakes and ants, and to exist like men buried alive, had of themselves repeatedly written in the humblest terms to Rhago-dji, to supplicate "his taking the trouble of coming to their assistance;

14.2.2

and they promised, in case of their being delivered from their loathsome habitations, to addict their whole lives to his service, without quitting his standards, unless dismissed." They added, "that they would ever keep that favour of his as a ring hanging at their ears, and would carry all their lives on their shoulders the trappings of attachment and sincerity." Rhago-dji finding his advantage in attaching to his person and cause some thousand Afghans, all old soldiers, equipped at all points, set out for Birbohum a little before the end of the rains, and taking his route over the mountains of that country, and through the hills and valleys of Carrick-pur, he in his way across the province of Azim-abad, sacked and plundered the town of Ticcary and Sheh-pura, with their whole territory. After which he forded the Sohon, went into the hills of Sarseram, and delivered the Afghans from their misery; he then descended into the plain, and encamped at Arvel. His army, by the junction of the Afghans, amounted now to full twenty thousand horse. Immediately after him, Aaly-verdy-qhan arrived at Azim-abad at the head of twelve thousand horse, all old soldiers, determined to put an end to his quarrel with the Marhattas. His nephew, the Governor of the Province, went out to a great distance to meet him; and had the honour of kissing his uncle's footsteps;

14.2.3

after which he remained sometime in camp, Aaly-verdy-qhan having been pleased to spend some days in enjoying his relations, kinsmen, and friends. And here it must be mentioned that some months before his arrival, a coolness and indifference had taken place between the Governor of Azim-abad and Abdol-aaly-qhan; and the coolness increasing, their faces had been obscured with the dust of so much discontent and disgust, that the former love and union had been succeeded by separation and distance. The subject was a certain note which the Governor had written to Abdol-aaly-qhan, in which were some sharp expressions, the purport and sense of which was this : " My brother, Radja Kyret-chund, has received wounds in the battle against Mustapha-qhan, and has rendered many services ; and what has done your Lordship, that you should require so much gratitude at my hands, and require it as your due ? " Abdol-aaly-qhan shocked at the drift of the note, abstained from going to Court ; but on the Viceroy's arrival, who was his maternal uncle, he resolved to attach himself to him, after having quitted the Governor's service. He intended henceforward to spend the remainder of his life in that Prince's Court, and to follow him to Morshood-abad. With this view, he once after dinner, remained on purpose in the Prince's tent where there were then only a few persons, such as Hadji-ahmed, his son the Governor, and myself ;

14.2.4

and finding the moment favourable, he brought the discourse upon himself and mentioned his intention, observing that he had now given up all his connections at Azim-abad, and wished to spend the remainder of his days in his uncle's service, as he could no more bear to live in the Governor's Court. The Viceroy, who wanted to soothe his mind, answered with mildness, " that such was the complexion of the present times, that dissensions were arising between a son and his father, and enmities had been conceived by a brother against a brother ; he added, that he had lived to see such things ( he alluded in this to a very indecent dispute that had happened two or three days ago, between Said-ahmed-qhan and Hadji-ahmed, his father, upon a small object, in which himself (Aaly-verdy-qhan) had mediated a reconciliation). If such disagreeable quarrels and enmities can find their way amongst fathers and sons, continued he, and between brothers and brothers, where is the wonder that there should arise a dissatisfaction between you and Zin-eddin-ahmed-qhan, who are sons only of two uncles ?" Abdol-aaly-qhan answered coldly, that if quarrels should happen between brothers and children, he did not wonder at it, as they were co-heirs ; but that he did not comprehend, why he, who was no more than a servant, should become the object of a quarrel ? If I am fit for anything, added he, let me be kept on an honorable footing ;

14.2.5

and if I am not so, dismiss me at once, without wounding my delicacy with disagreeable expressions and odious reflections, which I cannot bear with any regard to my honour. What means such a letter as this, for instance? And who is that Kyret-chund, that such a pimp should be compared with, and even preferred, to me. At this expression, Zin-eddin-ahmed-qhan took fire ; his colour changed, and he said "that he would risk his life to defend the honour and character of a Kyret-chund." He added, "that Kyret-chund was he, whose father's slippers had been carried by the ancestors of every one ; by all" (in this he alluded to this particular, that Kyret-chund's father was Prime Minister or Divan to Shujah-qhan, and the fountain head of all preferment, at a time when Hadji-ahmed, and his younger brother, Aaly-verdy-qhan, made their appearance at that Court). Abdol-aaly-qhan answered coldly, "that as his father had never carried the slippers of any one's father, he did not see why Kyret-chund should be a man of so much importance for him." The conversation growing warm, the Viceroy interposed, by desiring Abdol-aaly-qhan to contain himself ; and he added these words : Pray, friend, why do you become angry ? Zin-eddin-ahmed-qhan's allusion refers to me. At these words of Aaly-verdy-qhan's, the nephew held his tongue, and did not offer another syllable ; and the dispute subsided.

14.2.6

A few days after, the Viceroy sent for his nephew in a private closet, and after having spoke to him, he desired his living upon good terms with Abdol-aaly-qhan ; at the same time, he sent for the latter, and obtained of him as well as of the other, that they should embrace each other, and that their dissatisfaction should be brought to an end. After this transaction, Aaly-verdy-qhan accompanied by his two nephews, and by Ata-ollah-qhan and Seradj-ed-doulah, decamped from Bankypoor, and went to encamp at Nobut-poor, without being able to find one single Marhatta by the way. In advancing farther, many screams were heard, and a moment after, it was found that the noise arose from some Marhatta troopers, who having fallen upon the baggage, had disappeared immediately with some plunder. The next day, having ranged his army in battle, and supported his flanks by artillery, he moved forwards ; and it was remarked that there were not less than six persons in that army that enjoyed the honour of a kettle-drum, and no less than five, that were honoured with the insignia of the mahy or fish. The Commanders of the vanguard or the first line were Mir-djaafer-qhan, and Shimshir-qhan the Afghan; at his right was Ata-ollah-qhan and Serdar-qhan; at his left, Zin-eddin-ahmed-qhan. The flank was put under the care of Sayd-ahmed-qhan who was supported by Sheh-djehan-yar, and by Omer-qhan. Rahem-qhan was seated on the elephant that carried the Viceroy's main standard;

14.2.7

and that Prince was in the centre with a choice body of troops, commanded by Fakyr-ollah-beg-qhan, and Nûr-ollah-beg-qhan, and some other officers of character. The army marched the whole night in that order of battle, eager to meet the enemies, and desirous of an engagement; but no enemy appeared. Only at day-break some of their horse were seen at a great distance from the reach of cannon, plundering some defenceless villages; and the victorious army continuing its march, arrived at the Ranie's reservoir near Muhely-pûr, where it encamped. Rhago-dji happened to be encamped thereabout also, without ever suspecting that the enemy by a forced march would overtake him there. Mir-djaafer-qhan and Shimshir-qhan, who commanded the vanguard, and were the foremost, fell at once upon the enemy; and Rhago-dji surprised, but not dismayed, mounted immediately, without having time to range his army in battle; but he was directly surrounded by his guards; and the different corps of the Marhattas mounting successively, attacked the enemy in order to disengage their General. A furious engagement took place between Mir-Djaafer-qhan and them; and the combat became so serious, that a report ran unanimously, that Rhago-dji had never escaped, but for a neglect of Shimshir-qhan's, or possibly by his treachery. In a little time the Viceroy himself came to the support of his troops, and the enemy was giving way.

14.2.8

But whilst those two Commanders were engaged with a body of Marhattas, we who were with Abdol-aaly-qhan, were all engaged with another. That officer had only his brigade against some thousands of them; yet he stood his ground, until Medy-nessar-qhan mounted upon Sayd-ahmed-qhan's standard elephant, joined us with a body of troops. Here a deal of mutual slaughter ensued, and great things were intended, when night came on, and parted the combatants. The enemy giving way retired farther, and halted; and the Viceroy not choosing to advance in the dark, stayed where he was, and passed the night in a small tent provided for him, and for him only; for all the principal Commanders of the army, that is, his two nephews, and a very few others, took shelter under some trees; the rest of the army stood where it was; nor did any one know what had become of the baggage; nor did any one in so dark a night, choose to venture afar in quest of it. Some, more impatient than others, passed the whole night in inquiries, and filled the whole army with cries and tumult. Abdol-aaly-qhan, with the poor man and Allah-yar-qhan, half-brother to the Viceroy, and some other persons of distinction, passed the whole night watching in the Viceroy's tent. At day-break the baggage was found in a neighbouring plain, abandoned by all, but untouched. The poor man's baggage, as well as that of Abdol-aaly-qhan's, was found also without a man to watch over it; but yet untouched.

14.2.9

Every one having refreshed himself, the army marched again. The Viceroy offering battle every day to the enemy, and every day in vain, became tired of their backwardness, and he left the business to his officers, who would every day beat some party of the Marhattas, and always with loss to those ravagers. It was in those days that it appeared that the two Afghan Commanders were traitors in their heart, at least; it was then that Aaly-verdy-qhan conceived suspicions against them.

14.3.1

I remember that once being myself seated within the inner apartment of the Navvab-begum, consort to Aaly-verdy-qhan, he came himself unexpectedly, and having taken his seat, beseemed grieved and thoughtful. The Princess having reproached him for that behaviour of his, and asked the meaning of his appearing with so clouded an aspect, he answered in these words: I know not what is the matter; but I find some uncommon appearance amongst my people. The Princess anxious about her consort's disquietude, pitched upon two men of parts and character, and sent them as from herself, and in her own name, to Rhago-dji. The first was Muzzaffer-aaly-qhan-Bahadyr. The second was Faky-aaly-qhan, son to Hadji-abdollah, called the writer or historian, who had been Divan at Bōrhanpōr in the times of the Emperor Aoreng-zib. They had orders to procure a pacification upon an equality, if they saw any overture for it. The envoys having landed at Mir-Habib's, who was the main supporter of all Rhago-dji's schemes, were introduced by him, and they delivered their message. The Marhatta, who had been often vanquished, and did not think himself a match for Aaly-verdy-qhan, was glad of such a proposal; but Mir Habib, who was the Viceroy's mortal enemy, did not consent to it;

14.3.2

and he turned Rhago-dji's mind intirely, advising him to avail himself of his superiority in horse to give the enemy the slip, so as to arrive before him at M8rsh8d-abad, where Nevazish-mahmed-qhan commanded without troops, and where mighty things might be done. Rhago-dji relishing the advice, took to the road of M8rsh8d-abad, and was immediately followed by the Bengal army. But as part of the provisions that followed it had been forsaken and lost some days ago, and none were procured but by force and with dint of sabre, victuals became dear in camp, and then scarce, and at last invisible; the country round being so ruined, as to furnish none at all. In addition to all those evils, the river Sohon having become fordable, did not afford sufficient security to the boats that might have brought provisions. It was in such a distressed condition that Aaly-verdy-qhan continued his march along the Sohon; and it was in one of these marches, that he was joined by two officers of valour and renown, both in Zin-eddin-ahmed-qhan's service. They were both covered with wounds. These were Mehta-djesvent-nagur, and Mir-gh8lam-ashruff. They had both been detained at Azim-abad for some urgent business; and when it was done, they had resolved to join their master, and to prove thereby their zeal and attachment to his service.

14.3.3

Although the roads were scoured day and night by the enemy's horse, and there was no passing undiscovered, nevertheless without minding the times, they had the imprudence to sally forth from the city, and to advance towards the army with a small number of brave men that chose to stand by them. But they did not go far; the Marhattas having overtaken them, wanted to plunder and strip them; and as they refused to submit to that indignity, they were surrounded and attacked with spears and long swords; and a sharp engagement took place, in which the enemy mixed contumelious language with heavy blows. At last both those officers were dangerously wounded, and both were felled to the ground; and both were stripped, and their baggage was plundered and rifled. Nor was it but some time after, that they recovered so far their senses, as to arrive at the army, both naked, and both very much wounded; the Gentoo officer in particular, having lost the whole of his nose by a stroke of a sabre. It was over a country so totally ruined that Aaly-verdy-qhan arrived at Azim-abad, where having observed that Rhago-dji was hastening his march, he quitted that city, to follow the enemy to Baghal-pûr, where having advanced towards the river that runs by Champa-nagur, a suburb of that town, he took shelter under some trees, from whence he sent forwards the brigade he had with him, together with most of the officers present; and these had orders to look out for a proper encampment.

14.3.4

Rhago-dji who was always well informed, availed himself of that opportunity; and turning the brigade, he suddenly made his appearance at the head of five or six thousand horse. The Viceroy without betraying the least perturbation or fear, assembled those about him, and they did not amount to above six hundred persons of all sorts; and putting himself at their head, he advanced to the enemy, and charged vigorously. He had at that time with him an officer whom he had lately retained in his service, and who in paying his respects, had spoke very advantageously of himself, and required a great deal of distinction. The Viceroy recollecting the circumstance, now sent for Dost-mahmed-qhan, (for such was the man's name) "and he told him that this was the time to approve himself the man he had pretended to be, and to shew himself worthy of those distinctions, which he had claimed as his due." The man, without waiting for another word, put his horse on a gallop, and spying a body of men that cut a better figure than the rest, (and, in fact, it was Rhago-dji himself surrounded by his best mounted spearmen) he rushed amongst them, overthrew one man, killed another, wounded a third, and seized a fourth, with which he came back to Aaly-verdy-qhan, to whom he presented his prisoner, and who loaded him with encomiums. By this time assistance had come;

14.3.5

and Rhago-dji being surrounded in his turn with this body of horse, was amply regaled with everything which musquets, sabres, and spears could afford; so that finding that he could stand no more, he turned about, and fled. His troops after having plundered some baggage, took to flight also. But this action did not please Rhago-dji at all. Keeping the highroad became unsuitable to his circumstances, as it was impossible but the two armies would meet at last; and being unwilling to engage any more, he gave the enemy the slip, with intention to be beforehand with him about M8rsh8d-abad. The Marhatta therefore moved from Baghal-p8r, struck to the right, and got into the hilly country; and Aaly-verdy-qhan having wrote to his nephew at the Capital to be upon his guard, advanced by forced marches; and he was so lucky as to arrive at the city one day after the arrival of Rhago-dji's, who had already burned and sacked the two suburbs of Chap-chideh, and that called Mir-djaafer-qhan's garden. But on the Viceroy's arrival, he did not think proper to remain so near him. Decamping therefore immediately, he wheeled towards the southern and western suburbs of the City. The Viceroy having given three or four days' rest to his army, marched on through the outskirts of the city, and went to encamp at Amany-gundj;

14.3.6

from whence he advanced on the enemy, and having overtaken him at the Ranie's reservoir, close to Catwa, there ensued a sharp engagement, in which such a slaughter was made of the Marhattas, that Rhago-dji despaired of success; and fearing the destruction of his whole army, he turned about, and fled so earnestly, that henceforward he avoided the open plain, and availed himself of the skirts of the hilly country on the western back of Bengal. Aaly-verdy-qhan continued pursuing without ceasing; and Rhago-dji having consulted his Generals, it was thought proper, as they had lost so many of their men in their last engagement, to make the best of their way to their own country, from whence they had received terrible news a few days ago. Leaving therefore two or three thousand Marhatta horse, and six or seven thousand Afghans, under the command of Mir-Habib, the Marhatta Prince departed, very much humbled by the ill success of his expedition; and news were coming one after another that he intended to quit Bengal, until at last it was found he had really quitted the very frontiers of it. This campaign had an advantageous appearance. The enemy had been beaten and expelled; but the army fatigued by such repeated campaigns, and exceeded with toil in the last, had grown tired of the war; and Aaly-verdy-qhan perceived that officers as well as soldiers were equally weary with himself.

14.3.7

He wanted himself some release from his toils, and wished to enjoy some rest, as having a variety of purposes in view, he intended to marry the sons of his several daughters, and to prepare necessaries for the ceremonies. He wanted to gain the hearts of the soldiery by affording them some release. He had some refractory Zemindars to bring to order. Lastly, the wish of his heart was to enjoy the nuptials of Seradj-ed-doula, and Ecram-ed-doulah, his two darling grandsons. All those objects required his presence in the city, to which he immediately returned; and first of all he applied himself to business, and especially to that of quieting the country, and affording some relief to the wearied husbandman. He next turned his views towards refitting the necessaries of war, and promoting his officers according to their merits. Dost-mahmed-qhan, that officer who had continued to distinguish himself in the late campaign, and was now rising up to that favour which he enjoyed in its height some years after, was promoted to the command of a brigade, and complimented with many favours; as did Mir-cazem-qhan, who was also promoted to the command of a brigade; this officer enjoyed already the title of Bahadyr or valiant, and had distinguished himself eminently. These two officers having conceived an affection for each other, marched together, attacked together, and were performing together heroical actions in imitation of each other.

14.3.8

Their characters rising daily in the estimation of the public, as well as their mutual attachment to each other, they came at last to be the most renowned Commanders in the Bengal army; and it must be acknowledged, that they were both officers of inestimable merit; and that whenever an opportunity offered, they did not fail to perform such valorous actions, as acquired them the admiration of their brother officers, and the applause of the public, in bestowing which both enemies and friends became unanimous.

14.4.1

We have already mentioned that in the engagement with Rhago-dji at the Ranie's reservoir Shimshir-qhan had suffered him to escape; and that a little after, indices of defection and treason had appeared in the behaviour of two of Aaly-verdy-qhan's principal Commanders, namely, the Afghans Shimshir-qhan and Serdar-qhan. Such a discovery could not but impress the Viceroy with sorrow and inquietude, especially with regard to the latter. In the sequel there appeared some further indices, and something like a concert between these two Commanders and the Marhattas. So many extraordinary proceedings of theirs which hitherto had appeared unaccountable, were now ascribed to that cause, in so much that their master had long ago ceased to repose any confidence in them. The principal of those indices appeared on the following occasion: On Rhago-dji's arrival in the environs of Mbrshbd-abad, and even whilst he was encamped in the Birbohum, the rains were drawing to their end, and the entrance of the river Bagraty becoming fordable, the boats which used to come laden with provisions, had ceased to come directly to the city, and were obliged to land them at Bagvangolah, at six or seven cosses' distance, from whence only they could be brought over a tract of land; and as the road was infested with perpetual parties of the enemy's, the provisions could not come up, unless escorted by Commanders of character and trust.

14.4.2

It was for these reasons that the Viceroy, who remained at Amany-gundj, on the southern side of the city, appointed the two Afghan officers to escort the provisions, and to keep the road clear of the enemy's incursions; but this precaution did not prevent the provisions and oxen from being several times plundered and seized. So many miscarriages having raised a suspicion in the Viceroy's mind, he appointed his own nephew, Seyd-ahmed-qhan, to take care of the safety of the roads; and this service having been effectually performed, the former miscarriages recurred to his mind, and were attributed to a want of fidelity; and the suspicions being confirmed by subsequent proceedings of theirs, that had been hitherto doubtful, cautions were given to his most trusty Commanders to beware of them, and to be on the watch. It was conjectured now that the neglect of which those two Commanders were guilty, and the undutiful behaviour for which they had been remarkable, were fomented by connections with Rhago-dji; and even some shrewd persons affirmed that the Marhatta had gained over to his party, on one hand, Ata-ollah-qhan, on promise of bestowing upon him the Government of Azim-abad, when it should be conquered; and on the other, had attached to his interest the two Afghan Commanders by a promise of a lac of rupees in money, with the command of twelve thousand horse, if they could manage so as make away with Zin-eddin-ahmed-qhan, the Governor of the province;

14.4.3

and in case the city of Azim-abad should be taken by their means, they were to have two lacs of rupees more, and the Fodjdary of Derbanga, over and above the command of the twelve thousand horse promised. Letters were passing likewise between the two parties. Others, however, were of opinion, that those two men being ambitious, and at the head of a great force, had of themselves conceived aspiring thoughts of dominion, and had applied to the Marhatta General for his support. Be it as it may, these two Commanders, either because they resigned of themselves the service, or because indices of a malevolent disposition had been perceived in their conduct, were both dismissed about the year 1159. It was in this same year, and at the beginning of the rains, that Aaly-verdy-qhan assembled his relations and friends of Azim-abad, to celebrate the nuptials of his favourite grandsons, Seradj-ed-doulah and Ecram-ed-doulah. Hadji-ahmed, their paternal grandfather, had for some particular reasons excused himself, and did not come to the feast; but Zin-eddin-ahmed-qhan and Abdol-aaly-qhan arrived with their consorts, families, and dependants. The nuptials were celebrated with the utmost pomp and magnificence. The feast commenced by the nuptials of Ecram-ed-doulah, the younger brother. The reason was, that Ata-ollah-qhan's daughter, the virgin that had been betrothed to Seradj-ed-doulah, had died two or three years before;

14.4.4

and it was intended by marrying Ecram-ed-doulah first, to another daughter of that nobleman's, to console and oblige Rabiah-begum, their mother, a Princess who was niece to Aaly-verdy-qhan, as well as consort to Ata-ollah-qhan. One thousand Qhylaats were bestowed on that occasion on the Viceroy's relations, kinsmen, friends, favourite Commanders, and household servants; and two thousand more on occasion of Seradj-ed-doulah's nuptials; nor was any one of those below a hundred rupees; and numbers were of a thousand, and several more above that sum. Several persons of high distinction were besides complimented with jewels according to their respective rank and station; and for a month together or more there was a continual feasting, and a continual series of entertainments at the palace of Aaly-verdy-qhan, and that of his eldest nephew and son-in-law, Nevazish-mahmed-qhan, where all comers were received without exception; nor was there a family or middling or low in the city that did not partake of the festivity, by receiving several times tables of dressed victuals, called in India Torrahs; nor did any one of those Torrahs cost less than twenty-five rupees, and some did cost a great deal more; and thousands and thousands of such prepared Torrahs or entertainments were sent all over the city to every Mussulman's house.

14.4.5

There is no describing the illuminations, feux de joyes, and the artificial fires that seemed to have set both heaven and earth in a blaze, and to have given the inhabitants of M8rsh8d-abad an idea of the Garden of Arem. It was in this time of public and private festivity, that Sayd-ahmed-qhan, second nephew and son-in-law to Aaly-verdy-qhan, married his own daughter to Fahr-eddin-hussein-qhan, son to Seif-qhan, to whom she had been betrothed; and as that young nobleman, in consequence of the Government and riches hereditary in his own family, was extremely wealthy and oppulent, and had made preparatives equal to those of Aaly-verdy-qhan himself; Sayd-ahmed-qhan, who enjoyed high offices and dignities, and was nephew to the reigning Prince, felt himself fired with emulation in such a manner, as not to betray the least inferiority in his expense. In this manner the three nuptials were celebrated with equal magnificence and pomp

14.4.6

By one of those accidents that disconcert the best laid schemes of men, the virgin, three days after her being carried by the bridegroom to his home, which day is always dedicated to bathing, and is called Ch6uty, died suddenly, a death that amazed all the world, and was ascribed by many to a variety of causes, the most probable of which was then reputed to be an indigestion. Some ascribed it to the practices of one of the father's favourite women, who took umbrage at the profusion of presents made to the bride. Be it as it will, the bridegroom who if he had acted prudently and moderately, would in all probability have been complimented with another daughter, unaccountably gave way to his suspicions and resentment, and took it into his head that they would make away with him likewise, and that the tragedy was only at its commencement. He quitted M8rsh8d-abad without taking leave from any of these illustrious Princes with whom he had come to contract an alliance, and returned to P8rniah, a precipitation by which he dishonoured his character and family, whilst he rendered himself ridiculous by such a want of decorum.

14.4.7

But as we have so often mentioned Ata-ollah-qhan, the reader will not object to our giving here some account of that nobleman. Ata-ollah-qhan was a near relation of Car-taleb-qhan, who was himself a cousin-german of Shudjah-qhan, once Viceroy of Bengal. On Aaly-verdy-qhan's appointment to the Government of Azim-abad, Ata-ollah-qhan had been invested with the Government of Acbur-nugur-Radjemahl, in which office he remained for a length of years, with the grade of six thousand horse, and the command of as many effectual ones; he was also decorated with the insignia of a fringed Paleky and a kettle-drum, and with the titles of Yzaz-ed-doulah-bahadyr-Sabut-djung. But we shall soon have occasion to mention him again in this history. After the death of that daughter of his which had been betrothed to Seradj-ed-doulah, that young Prince was married to a daughter of Mirza-iredj-qhan's, a nobleman whose history is in few words as follows: His grandfather, Mustapha-coly-qhan, was Divan or Prime Minister to, and in high favour and trust with, Aazem-shah, son to Aorengzib; and so long as that Prince made his residence at Ahmed-abad, being Viceroy of Ghadjrat, he was after him the principal man in that kingdom, where he enjoyed the highest offices and dignities. That nobleman had three sons: Acbar-coly-qhan, (father to this Mirza-iredj-qhan) Shah-coly-qhan, and Mirza-mahmed-naky; all three, noblemen of high rank and character, and greatly esteemed, especially the two former.

14.4.8

Mustapha-coly-qhan dying in Azem-shah's life-time, Shah-coly-qhan, to whom that Prince had bestowed the command of the artillery some days before his giving battle to his brother, Bahadyr-shah, was found amongst the slain; and his elder brother, Acbar-coly-qhan, who had been appointed Governor of Baghal-pur, repaired to Bengal, where mindful of the consequences of a change of times, he lived with honor and credit during the whole of Feroh-syur's reign. His son, Mirza-iredj-qhan, attached himself to the Seyds, and in particular to Hossein-aaly-qhan, the youngest of the two, with whom he was united in friendship, as well as with Ghaairet-aaly-qhan, cousin-german to Hossein-aaly-qhan, with whom he always appeared with splendour at Court. On the catastrophe that befell the two Seyds he attached himself to the famous Ser-bulend-qhan, whom he accompanied into Ghadjrat, being in high favour with that General. He parted with him, however, and repaired to Bengal, where Shudjah-qhan, who knew all his family, and had a high esteem from them all, took him near his person, and always shewed him the utmost regard. He was in the battle which Ser-efraz-qhan gave to Aaly-verdy-qhan at Gheriah, where he lost his son, and where he was grievously wounded. After this, he retired to his house at M8rsh8d-abad without ever appearing at Court; but Aaly-verdy-qhan, who knew his merit, sent for him, took him in his service, and constantly shewed himself his friend and patron.

14.4.9

He was much esteemed in that Prince's Court, and had particular connections with him; and as that Prince was fully apprised of the eminent character of all his ancestors, and he knew all the lustre of his family, he proposed to him a match between his daughter and Seradj-ed-doulah, to which Mirza-iredj-qhan consented. After the consummation of the marriage, the Viceroy desirous to raise his new relation to dignities and employments, bestowed upon him some of the best Governments in Bengal, over and above the command of a brigade; and it was this brigade that stood in arms whilst all was festivity in M8rsh8d-abad, on account of Seradj-ed-doulah's wedding; and it was to him that orders were given to keep a watchful eye upon the quarters of the suspected Afghan Commanders. The weddings and festivities being over, Zin-eddin-ahmed-qhan and Abdol-aaly-qhan with their consorts and families, took their leaves of the Viceroy and their noble relations, and returned to their palaces and offices at Azim-abad. But as soon as they were departed, the two Afghan Commanders, who figured amongst the principal officers of the army, as being at the head of six or seven thousand horse of their own nation, suddenly asked and obtained leave to return to Derbanga, their native country; and having received their arrears in full, they set out for Monghīr, from whence they crossed over in boats;

14.4.10

and two months had already elapsed since this departure, when Mir-aaly-ashgar-kobra, who had been sent for by Ata-ollah-qhan on the fame of his character, made his appearance at M8rsh8d-abad.

14.5.1

This Mir-aaly-ashgar-kobra was a Seyd of the town of Fateh-p8r-sicri, in the province of Mevat, and had been in the service of the famous Emir-qhan, Viceroy of Illah-abad, who was himself son to another famous Emir-qhan, Viceroy of Cab8l. His father, Mir-gholam-ahmed, a very shrewd, and very wary man, was likewise famous for courage and personal prowess. His son, in his youth, attached himself to a Dervish or Fakir, that is a Friar, who took care to initiate him early into many practices and customs used amongst those sort of people; so that he became an adept in all their arts, and in all their ways of life; and now become himself a proficient, he returned into the world, where he endeavoured by spreading the net of saintship and of holiness, to acquire power and authority; in fact he catched many a fish, and many an idiot, rose into celebrity, and assumed the surname of Kebra, that is, the great. But he had forged out another surname for himself, and this was that of Maassum-el-arefin, a strange title, the signification of which we must suppose he well knew. In his speeches to his idiot hearers, he made use of such a lofty style, that they thought him endowed with those celestial gifts and graces to which he laid a claim, and which he said had not been communicated to the most glorious Prophets and envoys.

14.5.2

But as he had introduced some new laws about what is lawful and unlawful, (for instance, he held it unlawful to eat hen's eggs) some intelligent person asked why he had made them unlawful to his disciples? He answered, that he had never said such a thing; but only that for his own part he did not eat any. His followers had trumped up several strange stories about him; for instance, that he once fell into a well, and on his being enquired after, and searched for, he was found standing in the air, without touching the surface of the water. This miracle having been immediately rumoured abroad, about five or six hundred persons flocked to his lodgings, professed their belief in him, and had the honour to be admitted amongst his disciples. In his youth he had associated to himself a learned young man, with whom he used to retire into a corner, there to read in his presence, some books of grammar and astrology; and having thereby provided himself with store of scientific words in Arabic, he used to retail them to his starers-at with a deal of emphasis in his discourses. Some persons put questions to him about his knowledge in the sciences ; and to these he used to give this answer : "Yes, I have learned them all in the school of the Most High, in company with my master's sons ; there did I make my acquisitions." He alluded to the infused science which had been bestowed on the two handsome ones.

14.5.3

When in company with some new persons, he used to make use of such obscure ambiguous expressions, as made the by-standers suspect that he knew more than he would express ; and that he had the gift of seeing into men's hearts, and of guessing at their thoughts. In short, he was a shrewd, artificious, knowing man, who had found means with some of his disciples to be entertained in Emir-qhan's house, where he had a pension. After that nobleman's death, he had the good luck to be mentioned to Ata-ollah-qhan by a certain Vezir-qhan, an Afghan in his service ; and that nobleman becoming desirous to see so extraordinary a personage, obtained Aaly-verdy-qhan's leave to invite him over ; and he sent him a great sum of money, desiring him to accept it for his charges, and to repair speedily to Bengal with all his people. The man on this invitation assumed all the insignia of grandeur, as the fringed Paleky, and the kettle-drum ; and drawing together six or seven hundred horse, all of them his relations and disciples, besides a great multitude of other people, that followed on foot, he made his appearance in Azim-abad, with a retinue and a pomp that impressed every one with respect and awe. It was in the year Eleven Hundred and Sixty. After tarrying two or three days in the outskirt of the city, he continued his route to M8rsh8d-abad.

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