Siyar al-mutaʾakhkhirin 16.8.2

16.8.2

On seeing which he sent for the poor man's mother (a lady whom he considered as his own), and to whom he bore the tenderest respect, with the most filial attachment; and he shewed her the letter, informing her of Seradj-ed-doulah's arrival, and requesting her opinion. The lady astonished at what she heard, answered in these terms, which do so much honor to her understanding: "Brother, you will never be able to cope with Aaly-verdy-qhan; and although the man, who commands here, is only a Gentoo and a writer, nevertheless he is his deputy; and with the force he can muster, he will be able to reduce a hundred such ones as yourself. As to Seradj- "ed-doulah, he is Aaly-verdy-qhan's grandson, and the grandfather is doating upon him. His coming so far will do him no great harm; they will join again, and become one again, like sugar and milk that have got a slight simmering; nor shall you be found to have done much more than to have sought your own death to no purpose at all. Your boats are these many days ready. Embark your consort and your daughter, and dispatch them immediately; and as to yourself, get upon a fleet horse, and disappear from hence." This was a salutary advice; but Mehdy-nasser-qhan retained already by the point of honor, and controuled by the strong hand of destiny, constantly answered the entreaties of that sensible lady only with these words: Had not Seradj-ed-doulah come so far, I should be gone; and I was ready to go;