[Pramāṇa](https://indike.org/pramana/) › [Indian literature](https://indike.org/pramana/in) › [Dark Ages](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages) › [Mughals (1526–1857)](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal) › [Later Mughals (1707–1857)](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later) › [Siyar al-mutaʾakhkhirīn](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin) › [A Translation of the Seir Mutaqherin (Haji Mustafa)](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa) › 16 # Siyar al-mutaʾakhkhirin 16 A Translation of the Seir Mutaqherin (Haji Mustafa) 16 - **Language:** English ## Contents - [16.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.1) — 10 parts - [16.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.2) — 8 parts - [16.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.3) — 7 parts - [16.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.4) — 7 parts - [16.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.5) — 7 parts - [16.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.6) — 10 parts - [16.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.7) — 11 parts - [16.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.8) — 12 parts - [16.9](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.9) — 8 parts - [16.10](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.10) — 7 parts ### [16.1.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.1.1) Noble reflections of the author on those two murders — Nevazish-mahmed-qhan infinitely regretted — His eulogium — Some account of his second brother, Sayd-ahmed-qhan — His death — Singular character of an old woman called Dana-annga — Death of Aaly-verdy-qhan — An account of his private life — Singular prediction of his, with regard to the English. We have left Aaly-verdy-qhan on the other side of the Ganga. As this was a country full of game, and he was exceedingly fond of hunting, he passed forty or fifty days on that side of the river; and it is there that Seradj-ed-doulah, who could not digest the appointment of his uncle, Sayd-ahmed-qhan, to the viceroyalty of Azim-abad, spoke some words, and committed some actions, that little became his station and his person; and it is at such a conjuncture, likewise, that he gave some presages of the hastiness of his temper, and the improvidence of his conduct. There also he gave evident signs of his influence in the politics of the Government, and of his unbounded sway over his grandfather's mind; and this was about one of the strangest events which history ever recorded; a conspiracy of a son against his own father! An event which may be ranked amongst those that serve to awaken the attention of mankind, and to put the most confident upon their own guard against wickedness and malevolence. ### [16.1.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.1.2) But it must be remembered first, how that pattern of mankind, the illustrious Mir-mahmed-aaly, the learned, (whose learning and merit may God continue for a length of time!) had crossed over from Pùrania to Mongher, to make a visit to Aaly-verdy-qhan. As he had some connections with Seif-qhan, the hereditary Governor of Pùrania, a province which is situated just over against Mongher, and on the other side of the Ganga, he had re-crossed over to renew his acquaintance with that nobleman, as well as with his eldest son, a young lord whose name was Faqhr-eddin-hossein-qhan, but who went by the name of the Navvab-bahadyr, or valiant Navvab. On his departing from thence after his visit, this young lord gave him a petition, that is, a letter for Aaly-verdy-qhan, which enclosed a letter to himself; nor did the illustrious Seyd ever so much as dream of the contents; for he promised to put the letter in Aaly-verdy-qhan's own hands at some disengaged moment, and to support the contents with all his influence; and as he was naturally of an unsuspicious temper, he carried it to that Prince, and on the very first opportunity, put it into his hands. The Viceroy having perused the contents, turned towards the Lord Seyd, and uttered these words: Well, my Lord Seyd, I shall do whatever you desire, and as you shall bid me. ### [16.1.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.1.3) As the Lord Seyd knew nothing at all of the contents, he expressed some surprise at these words, and could not help answering, that he was not privy to the contents of the petition. Upon this the Viceroy put in his hands both the petition and its inclosure, that is, the letter directed to himself. On perusal of both, the poor man was struck dumb with the contents, which proved to be no less than a proposal from that denatured son, to seize the government of the country; make his own father a prisoner, and send him down to MOrshOOd-abad; for all which performances he requested only a small military force from the Viceroy. It was on discussing this unnatural affair that Seradj-ed-doula gave specimens of his turn of mind, and proofs of his boundless influence over the Viceroy's mind. It was on the following occasion: Amongst those that accompanied the Lord Seyd, was a simple, very plain man, called Aga-Azimai, who had once served Seif-qhan, hereditary Governor of POraniah, as his Paymaster-General, in which office he had contracted an intimacy with some officers, and amongst others with Serdar-qhan, that Afghan Commander, who was in the same service, and had lately cut so capital a figure at the sack of Azim-abad. ### [16.1.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.1.4) This simple man was now taken to task by Seraj-ed-doula, under pretence that he had been all along in close correspondence with the Afghan, had been deeply concerned in the revolution at Azim-abad, and actually was possessed of a hoard, acquired in the plunder of that city by the late Commander, but intrusted to his care and secrecy. The only proofs he adduced of so perilous a charge, was that in the endless plunder and continual defilements to which that ill-fated city had been a prey for full two months, Serdar-qhan, who then chanced to remember his acquaintance, and to retain some sense of the many favours he had once received at his hands, now thought proper to pay a regard to some families and some houses, recommended to him by Aga-Azimai. This intercession became his crime; and Seradj-ed-doula having now taken mighty exceptions against this particular circumstance, and even instilled his own suspicions and ideas on his grandfather's mind, Aga-Azimai was accused, as being one of the conspirators, and as concealing the sum of eight lacs, deposited in his hands by Serdar-qhan, out of the plunder of Azim-abad. Such an accusation found credit; and matters were likely to take a very bad turn with the poor man, had not the Lord Seyd taken him under his safeguard, and obtained his liberty from the Viceroy. The man on being released, quitted that perilous spot, and repaired to Azim-abad, where Seyd-ahmed-qhan, the Deputy-Governor, gave him service. ### [16.1.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.1.5) This giving service to the man, was not relished at the Court, then at Mongher; and possibly, is it from so small a subject, that some dissensions soon commenced in Aaly-verdy-qhan's family, that gave rise to mighty events. We have said that the Viceroy had appointed Seyd-ahmed-qhan, his second nephew and son-in-law, to the government of the city and province of Azim-abad; an office which had been promised him at the very beginning of the Afghan War, and with which he seemed to be fully invested, under the modest appellation of Deputy-Governor. One of the first actions of the new Governor's was his sending for a number of persons of distinction, now out of his province, and attaching them to his service by suitable pensions. These were the flower of the nobility. They had all been in the murdered Viceroy's service, and were only dispersed by his death. Amongst these was Mehdi-nessar-qhan, maternal uncle to the poor man; he had sought an asylum in the fortress of Rhotas. Another was Naky-aaly-qhan, younger brother to the poor man. Next came Aareb-aaly-qhan, Qhadem-hassen-qhan, and several others. This liberality was not relished by Aaly-verdy-qhan's consort, who observed, "that as the province of Azim-abad was so situated, as to be the main gate that afforded an entrance into Bengal, to which country no army could penetrate without its Governor's concurrence, it was improper to leave so important a post in the hands of a person which she styled a stranger; ### [16.1.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.1.6) that her eldest son-in-law, Nevazish- "mahmed-qhan, being a man of a weak conduct, and of weaker intellects, it became evident that on her husband's demise, Sayd-ahmed-qhan, although her son-in-law likewise, would become a sworn enemy to her other daughters, and of course to her two grand children, Seradj-ed-doula, and his younger brother Ecram-ed-doula. After such a chain of reasoning she concluded that so important a Government ought to be lodged in such hands as she might trust entirely." The Princess having said so much, lowered her tone of voice, and with an air of concern and affliction, "she mentioned the high salaries and expensive pensions which her nephew had been bestowing upon the principal nobility of the province; and she glossed over them as upon so many misdemeanours, which took their rise in deep schemes, and concealed remote views and high-flown designs." Such a speech from a Princess, that had given her husband the highest opinion of her wisdom, could not but make a deep impression on his mind; but the Princess, as if doubting her own influence in instilling her own jealousies in her husband's mind, took care to employ another engine, still more powerful. She taught Seradj-ed-doula to mutter publicly, "that if the Viceroyalty of Azim-abad was bestowed on Seyd-ahmed-qhan, he (Seradj-ed-doula) would not survive the affront, but would make away with himself. He used to say that the Bahar was his father's property. ### [16.1.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.1.7) That it came to him by hereditary right, as a paternal estate, and ought not to be given away to others." Words to that effect, from a youth who had now become the old man's whole delight, and his very soul, could not fail to sink deep in his mind, on the first moment of their being reported to him. His whole soul centred in that young man; and to give him the least uneasiness, was a thought which he could not bear. On the other hand, he was accustomed to pay the highest deference to his consort's advice, and the tenderest regard to her wishes; and he also confessed, that after all, her opinion tended to the completion of a scheme which he had set up with her concurrence, namely, that of declaring Seradj-ed-doula heir to his estate, and his successor in all his dominions. No wonder then, if overcome now by the intreaties of a beloved consort, and unable to withstand Seradj-ed-doula's displeasure, he altered his mind with respect to his other grandson and nephew, and totally declined to fulfil his promise to him. The latter, who thought himself shockingly wronged by such a proceeding, and moreover exposed to ridicule, was stung to the quick at such an unexpected reverse; and giving way to the emotions of his resentment, he abstained from going to Court, and lastly resolved to quit Bengal, and to repair to Shah-djehan-abad, where he intended to seek his fortune at the Imperial Court. ### [16.1.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.1.8) The old Prince, wounded by his nephew's discontent and secession, attempted several times by notes in his own hand, and also by letters, to apologise for his conduct, and to sooth his nephew's mind; but all was to no purpose. Matters went so far, that the nephew proved inexorable; and in one of his answers he protested, that he was bound by a solemn oath to quit Bengal, and to go to the Imperial Court, should the matter fail of taking the turn he wished. This was answered by a note in the hand of Aaly-verdy-qhan himself. It contained these two short sentences: To atone for such an oath is easy; and to quit a loving uncle, imprudent. After dispatching the note, he went to pay him a visit, where he addressed him in these words: "Son, it is out of love to you that I stoop to these entreaties, and possibly to these importunities; else, you know yourself, that my custom is to speak once to a man, and to inform him of my mind; after which I leave him to his ownself, never to speak to him again. If this resolution of yours arises from some other matter of discontent, speak out, I am here to afford you redress, and to oblige you to the utmost extent of your wishes; and if you do not choose to speak yourself, here is Hekim-begh, and some other gentlemen, your friends; ### [16.1.9](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.1.9) make use of their channel, and cease to torment yourself and me any more on that head." The visit being over, Sayd-ahmed-qhan made use of the channel pointed out to him, to ask the confirmation of some revenues he had acquired in his new Government; and his request having been complied with, this disagreeable affair was immediately brought to an end. But as the rainy season was setting in, the Viceroy resolved to spend it at Azim-abad, in order to arrange some matters of importance, and to settle every part of a province, which required his presence; he also sent orders to Mόrshόd-abad for bringing Seradj-ed-doulah's consort to Azim-abad under the charge of Radja Djankiram, whom he really intended to appoint Deputy-Governor of the province. Djankiram being arrived with his charge, a public day was appointed, in which a rich Qhylaat was put on Seradj-ed-doula's shoulders, in token of investiture for the Government of Azim-abad, and another of inferior value, on Djankiram, as his deputy, who was besides complimented with a fringed Paleki, and a kettle-drum. And to regain Sayd-ahmed-qhan's good will to this arrangement, as well as to soften his mind, Djankiram received orders to wait upon him, and to ask his consent in a respectful manner. Sayd-ahmed-qhan graciously granted it, although highly humbled by a transaction that exposed his character; and he gave him a Biry of Paan, according to the custom of India, in token of that consent; ### [16.1.10](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.1.10) his intention being to avoid everything that might disoblige his uncle; and it is remarkable that Djankiram went by the Viceroy's order, in company with Sadr-el-hac-qhan, to give more weight to his submission. Matters being now settled to his mind, Aaly-verdy-qhan quitted Azim-abad at the end of the rains, and taking with him both Sayd-ahmed-qhan and Seraj-ed-doulah, he displayed his victorious standards and took the road of Bengal. ### [16.2.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.2.1) Before the end of his journey, he dispatched an order to his deputy at Mʊrshʊd-abad for his getting Ata-olla-qhan conveyed out of Bengal without delay, and without fail; for he had this longwhile harboured strong suspicions against this last nobleman, and they had been strengthened more than once, but never so much ascertained, as when his envoy and letters were of late intercepted, as we have already mentioned. Although such a traitorous conduct deserved punition, and might have excited any other Prince's resentment, he chose to leave the man to the remorses of his own conscience; and he ordered that he should be dismissed with his consort, family, riches, movables and furniture; strictly recommending that no injury should be offered him on any account whatsover; but commanding at the same time, that the order for his dismission should be obeyed so expeditiously, as that on the arrival of the victorious standards at M8rsh8d-abad, no trace of his presence might be left in that city. The Deputy-Governor having received those orders, sent them with the letter to Ata-ollah-qhan; the latter, who had to this moment conserved preciously the bond by which that impostor, Mir-aaly-ashgar-cobra had promised him the dominion of Bengal, now thought it full time to tear his heart from it; and having submitted to his fate, he departed with his family, his riches, his dependants, and whatever belonged to him. ### [16.2.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.2.2) His ostensible fortune, by common report, amounted to sixty lacks of rupees, and seventy elephants; but he was known to be possessed, besides, of a quantity of gems, precious stuffs, and gold; and to have carried away the very furniture of his house. Crossing the Ganga, he took up his quarters at Malda, in the house of Mirza-zya-ollah, and spent some days in preparing everything for his intended journey. ### [16.2.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.2.3) Whilst he was crossing over, Aaly-verdy-qhan was taking up his quarters at Radjemahal, called Acbar-nugur, where having celebrated the holy days of the feast of the sacrifice, he gave up his journey over land, and embarked on a fleet of boats; with which in a few days, he landed at Bagvangolah, where he was received by his Deputy, and also by Hussein-c8ly-qhan, and some other distinguished persons amongst the nobility and principal citizens of M8rsh8d-abad. After having reposed himself a little, he mounted a mountain-like elephant, and with a pomp which became his victorious expedition, and his intrepid troops, he made a triumphant entry in the city, and arrived at his palace; where he was no sooner landed, than not satisfied with the many charitable actions he had already performed in thanksgiving for his successful expedition, he ordered new charities to be distributed to the Seyds, to the faithful, and to the needy and distressed of all sorts; he inclined himself again profoundly in the presence of the Divine distributor of graces, and acknowledged that the victory bestowed upon him had something extraordinary, and such as strongly argued a particular interposition from above. As he was a lover of learning and merit, he had taken care, on quitting Azim-abad, to invite to his Court several persons distinguished for their birth, rank, learning or talents, requesting them to follow his fortune, and to live in his Capital. ### [16.2.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.2.4) One of these was "the Prince of the teachers, the pattern of the jurisconsultes, the model of the virtuous and of the illustrious, the detector of the intricacies of questions, and the solver of the knots of difficulties, the Prince of learned ones, His Highness my Lord Mir-mahmed-aaly, (the refreshing stream of whose learning, may God Almighty keep running for a long series of years ! ) Another was the glorious and illustrious Qhan, the eye of mankind, and the ball of that eye, Zair-hussein-qhan, son to the learned Doctor, Moluvy-mohammed-nassyr, (upon whom may God's mercy repose for ever ! ). The third was the illustrious and beneficent Qhan, Taky-coly-qhan, now deceased, son to Hadji-abdollah, surnamed the Writer or Historian, who had been Divan of the province of Burhanpur, in the times of the Emperor Aoreng-zib-aalemghir (the Conqueror). The fourth was the illustrious and high-born Qhan, the beneficent, the munificent, the excellent and learned, the Lord of one way of seeing (that is, the sincere) Aaly-hibrahim-qhan, the valiant, son to Doctor Mahmed-nassyr, cousin-german to the late Zair-hussein-qhan. The fifth was Hadji-mahmed-qhan." All these eminent personages accompanied Aaly-verdy-qhan to Murshud-abad, where they were all welcomed with large pensions. ### [16.2.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.2.5) It was about this time, and when that Prince was setting out, that I, the poor man, arrived from Shah-djehan-abad, to see my glorious mother, as well as my brothers, relations, friends and acquaintances ; all beloved persons, which I had given up for lost, on hearing of the enormities of which Shimshir-qhan and his people were every day guilty. In passing by Lucnow, I paid my respects to my glorious uncle, of whom I asked the reason of his having parted with Aaly-verdy-qhan, his cousin, and of his being come so far. He answered, "that this breach had been occasioned by his consort (Abdol-aaly-qhan's), and that matters were now past remedy ; that he had lost his possessions, and also his peace of mind ; and that being now deprived of his country and fortune, as well as a prey to the pains of mind and body, "he was going to Shah-djehan-abad, in a state of despair; he "added, that if he happened to be still alive, it was by the mere "strength of his destiny." "A bad woman in a good man's house "Becomes his hell, even in this world : "Beware of a bad inmate, beware ! "O ! God preserve us from such a hell." ### [16.2.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.2.6) And it is on the same account, as well as on account of Abdol-aaly-qhan's dismission, that there passed such a sharp dialogue between my mother and Aaly-verdy-qhan ; a dialogue which no one would have ventured upon, and which no one would choose to repeat. To put up with such expressions as were then heard by that Prince, is what the nature of an Angel would have overlooked, but which was more than the patience of a man could bear. This difference likewise broke an alliance, which Sayd-ahmed-qhan had desired between himself and Seyd-aaly-qhan, younger brother to the poor man, to whom he intended to marry his own daughter, a Princess which Aaly-verdy-qhan has since bestowed on another, whom he has thought proper to honour with his alliance. Although it must be acknowledged, that this Prince, as well as his three sons-in-law, had not their equals in forgiving the misdemeanours of relations, and in winking at the improper conduct of kinsmen ; a condescendence extremely uncommon, and of which we see so few instances, even amongst private men. May God Almighty's goodness reward them for it, by extending over them for ever, the wings of mercy and forgiveness ! On my arrival at Azim-abad, I found that Mehdi-nessar-qhan, my uncle, and Naki-aaly-qhan, my brother, with all my relations, kinsmen, and friends, had quitted that city to follow Sayd-ahmed-qhan. These were Gholam-reza-qhan, son to Moortezevi-qhan ; Tora-azimai, whom we have already mentioned ; ### [16.2.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.2.7) and Melec-mahmed-qhan, together with Qhadum-hossein-qhan, Areb-aaly-qhan, Mir-fazyl-aaly, with all his relations ; and Mir-assed-aaly, and the Prince of the learned of Azim-abad, Mollah-gholam-yahya, Mir-vahed, and the mufti Zia-ollah, the Moluvi or Doctor Laal-mahmed, and the late Mir-abdol-hadi. All these were the cream and flower of that city ; so that finding it hard to live at a distance from such dear persons, and irksome, to remain in a city which had been evacuated by all my friends, I followed my uncle and two brothers, and without any assurance that Siyd-ahmed-qhan would admit me amongst his friends, I arrived at Mongher, where I landed, and where I was informed that the Governor of Bahar was ashore, and actually busy in performing the rites of the day of the sacrifice, and in eating, as it is customary, some of the roast meat actually upon the spit, and roasting in his presence. As this was a holy day, and a solemnity consecrated to visits, and to demonstrations of respect, and the Prince happened to be almost alone; I thought that these circumstances not only rendered the occasion favourable to present myself before him, but likewise that they turned it into a duty incumbent upon me. Landing, therefore, from my boats with my youngest brother, Seyd-aaly-qhan, I went up, and making a bow at a distance, I advanced and congratulated him upon the holy day, presenting my Nuzur at the same time. ### [16.2.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.2.8) He had the goodness to take it up with demonstrations of regard, seemed overjoyed to see me, made me sit down, and after having invited me to his repast, he requested my remaining with him henceforward as his friend, whether in voyage or in town. Immediately after, he assigned, both to me and to my brother, a pension adequate to our expenses, and having ordered the paper to be brought up directly, he signed it in our presence; so that soon a mutual attachment took rise between that nobleman and me, (the most inconsiderable of mankind) of which mention shall be made in a proper time and place. Our journey being at an end, we arrived at Bagvangolah, where the Governor, who could not digest his having been refused the Government of Azim-abad, and who harboured still in his heart much discontent against his elder brother, as well as against his uncle, at once resolved to pass the season there, and he gave his orders accordingly. Nevertheless, he was softened by his uncle's letters, and by the intreaties of his elder brother, who came to see him on purpose, and requested his coming to live at M&rsh&d-abad; and to this he consented at last. After tarrying full two months there, he came to the city, and landed in his own palace, which is seated on the Bagraty, over against that of Djagat-seat's, and from whence he ordered that the house of Mir-habib should be fitted up for us; that is, myself, the poor man, Mehdy-nessar-qhan, my uncle, and Naky-aaly-qhan, my brother. ### [16.3.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.3.1) We have said that Aaly-verdy-qhan, after his victory over the Afghans, was returning to M8rsh8d-abad ; this opportunity was seized by Seif-qhan, hereditary Governor of PSrania, who conceiving that he had acquired some merit with the Viceroy, not only by sending presents to him on his passage on the other side of the Ganga, but also by assisting with a detachment of useful troops, thought he had a right now to invite him over to his own side of the river, where he had made magnificent preparatives. It must be observed, that as he had already invited and received successively, both Hadji-ahmed, brother to the Viceroy, and Sayd-ahmed-qhan, his son-in-law, on their occasionally passing up and down the river ; and had engaged them to accept entertainments at Carangolah, which belongs to the dominions of PSrania ; he concluded that Aaly-verdy-qhan himself would come over, and accept the entertainment he had prepared for him at the above place. He had set up a number of magnificent tents, and prepared a quantity of rich and curious presents ; but these preparatives were not taken notice of by the Viceroy, who knew that the Fodjdar had always paid visits, both to Djaafer-qhan, and to Shudjah-qhan, his two predecessors in the viceroyalty of Bengal, to both which he thought himself vastly superior, either in military talents or in extent of dominions. ### [16.3.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.3.2) The truth is, that he was not only much superior to them, but also equal, if not superior, to any potentate of his time, either in reputation, or in real power. He therefore rejected Seif-qhan's invitations and offers ; he even found so much fault with the request, that he was heard to say to his intimates, " That although Seif-qhan was a " Lord of the rank of seven thousand horse, and a son of Emir- " qhan, the famous Viceroy of CabSl, yet, after all, he would not " be deemed anything higher or better than a Fodjdar of PSrania ; " and since he used once a year, to comply so far with the rules " of decency, as to come down to MSrshSd-abad to see Djaafer- " qhan and Shudjah-qhan, and Ser-effraz-qhan, why then does " he not come to see me likewise ? Possibly the gentleman thinks " such a condescendence beneath his rank and dignity." Seif-qhan, who was not informed of these sentiments, and who expected that the Viceroy would, like his brother and nephew, cross over, and accept his presents, sent him an invitation whilst he was passing by Taliagary. But the invitation, although noticed and even respectful, was rejected, and the message was answered in these very words : " If to see me is the whole matter, why " does he not come to Mursud-abad, as he always took care to " do with the former Nazems of Bengal." Seif-qhan on hearing this answer, repented of his having come so far, and he returned to Purania, his capital ; ### [16.3.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.3.3) where in a little time he fell sick, and his sickness turning to a looseness and flux, he departed this world at the beginning of the year one thousand one hundred and sixty-two. He was succeeded by his eldest son, Faqhr-eddin-hossein-qhan, who had no talents for government, and no capacity for such a charge ; and he proved as bad a brother, as he had been a bad son. This man not only took possession of the Government, but also seized on the family estate which amounted to immense sums that had been accumulating these forty years past, and consisted of ready money, jewels of an inestimable value, gems, and precious costly stuffs. All this he took to himself, to the exclusion of his younger brothers ; and not content with that, he snatched out of their hands even what they were already in possession of, leaving them only a small matter, or what they had been able to conceal. The Viceroy, who was soon informed of all this, and who knew of no office in Bengal adequate to Sayd-ahmed-qhan's rank and pretensions, thought of this province, and he obtained the patent of it from the Court. In a few months he put it in his hands, together with the rich Qhylaat, and the other insignia that had come on purpose from the capital ; and to render the ceremony more pompous, he added from his own an elephant, a serpich and Djica with a calghi, a chaplet of pearls, and a variety of other jewels. ### [16.3.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.3.4) The fodjdary of Hoogly becoming vacant by this appointment, he made a present of it to Seradj-ed-doulah, appointing Mirza-Piaren, a half-brother of his, whose real name was Mahmed-yar-qhan, to reside in that province, as Deputy of the young Prince's. Some days after the Governor of Purania having sent forward a man of distinction, called Qhadem-hossein-qhan, to take possession of his new Government, he followed himself in a little time after, and this was at the end of the year. He was accompanied by me, the poor man, and by some other persons attached to him, all which were at the head of two or three thousand horse and three or four thousand men. Faqhr-eddin-hossein-qhan finding that he had now no other party left than that of apprehending the hem of the Viceroy's garment, wrote him a respectful letter, where he preferred his acquiescence and submission to his pleasure. The latter now become covetous, wrote him in answer, "That he was his friend; and that he had better come over to Mursliud-abad when he wished to see him, and where he might rest assured that a regard would be paid to his utmost wishes, as his intention was to gratify him in everything." Such a letter, which ought to have put him upon his guard, on the contrary inspired him with confidence; and like one who by his unworthy treatment of his brother had drawn upon himself the Divine vengeance, he had the thoughtlessness to obey the order, and to prepare everything for his journey to Mursliud-abad. ### [16.3.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.3.5) Else, with the troops and equipages, and all the means of travelling and defence which he had ready under his hand, he might have crossed the Cossey. There being no Zemindar in the neighbouring country daring enough to oppose his journey, and even supposing that he should have met with opposition, he might easily have got rid of it, by affording a small contribution and then continuing his voyage. But the man pursued by the Divine vengeance for the wrongs he had heaped upon his brothers, and as the report goes, upon even his very father, proved so senseless as to set out for Mursliud-abad with a baggage of an immense value; but escorted by a body of troops which he had found ready at his hands, and which needed only a Commander. In coming down he met Sayd-ahmed-qhan by the way. The latter who always knew how to behave properly, sent his own son, Shaocat-djung, with two or three officers of his army, such as Mehdi-nessar-qhan and my humble self, to compliment him on his journey, and to condole on his father's death; and it was observed that the young man acquitted himself of his commission with a propriety of behaviour and expression that surprised every one. The next day Faqhr-eddin came to pay his respects to Sayd-ahmed-qhan, who received him with distinction, and made him a variety of presents. The third day the new Governor continued his journey, and by the way he returned the visit; ### [16.3.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.3.6) after which Faqhr-eddin taking his leave, went on towards Mursliud-abad, while the other continued his journey to Puraniah, where we shall leave him for a while as we intend to speak hereafter both of his person and administration; our business now being with his thoughtless predecessor, who having left his troops upon the Maha-nudda over against Mincût, crossed the Ganga, and repaired to Mûrshûd-abad, where the Viceroy sent some persons of distinction to welcome him at his landing; and on his coming to pay his respects, he ordered a quilted Carpet or Suzeni to be spread for him, where he got him seated, and where he complimented him with Paan, and Atur or Essence of Roses, as well as Rose-water; and, in short, with all the honorific demonstrations of regard customary in India; after which he appointed a place for his residence, or in other words, for his confinement. ### [16.3.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.3.7) But whilst he was making this acquisition, he was losing his Prime Minister, the Ray-Rayan-Chein-Ray, who now departed this life. He was succeeded by his Deputy, Birû-dut, who was ordered to execute the duties of that high office, but without being permitted to assume the title. This Chein-Ray was a curious sort of a man, but so able in his business, and with all so loyal, that he made no account of anything, when it interfered with his master's interest. In a little time he had acquired so far his approbation, and had gained so much over his mind, that the persons of the greatest distinction at his Court, without excepting the Viceroy's two sons-in-law, were obliged to make interest with him, wherever they had a point to carry. So that sometimes they found it expedient to pay him the greatest deference and regard; and how high was his credit and influence, may be conjectured by this single anecdote: I was once in a closet with the Viceroy, where he was conversing privately with his nephews and cousins, and where Sayd-ahmed-qhan having mentioned the present Minister, was comparing him to his predecessor in that high office, and to his own private Minister. "No, my son," replied the Viceroy, "those you mean were my servants; whereas the other was no less than my master." But after having complimented our readers with this little piece of private history, let us return to the thread of public affairs, and especially to the Marhattahs, and to Djano-dji, their Prince and General. ### [16.4.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.4.1) This Djano-dji, after the defeat of the Afghans by the Viceroy, had been obliged to quit the neighbourhood of Azim-abad, and with a loss of forces and character, to endeavour to fall upon Mûrshûd-abad itself, in the Viceroy's absence. But having received by the way the news of his mother's decease, he abandoned his resolution, and leaving Mir-habib with an army of Afghans and Marhattahs, with which he was to find his way towards Midnipoor, and to establish himself there, he quitted the field, and with only an escort, he repaired to Naigpoor; from whence Rhagodji, his father, sent his younger son, Bimba-dji, with a strong body of Marhattah horse to join Mir-habib. Meanwhile the Viceroy, as we have already said, having performed his vows a second time, and returned thanks to the Author of all benefits for so signal a success, was continuing his journey to Moorzhood-abad, in which city he remained to repose himself of the fatigues of his expedition, and to afford some release to the wearied inhabitants of his dominions; who in return never failed to be profuse in expressions of gratitude for the attention and benignity of his Government. And now the country commenced enjoying some tranquillity; nor was anything to be feared, but from the restlessness of Mir-habib's, and the ravages of his Marhattahs. ### [16.4.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.4.2) The Viceroy, who had taken upon himself the task of ridding his country of such ravagers, took early occasion to display his victorious standards, resolved to make an end of those freebooters. It was in the first days of the second Reby in the year 1162. With that view he encamped some days at Catwa to assemble his troops. He had beforehand sent Bahadyr-aaly-qhan, Commander of his light artillery to Bardevan, with a body of eight thousand horse and foot, and an order to remain encamped there, to the end that should Mir-habib attempt, according to his custom, to ruin and ravage a country he could not conquer, he might find his passage barred up by a respectable force. In a little time the troops being assembled, formed a numerous army, and marched to Bardevan. On his drawing near, Bahadyr-aaly-qhan drew up his troops, and marched back a little to join him, and to pay him his respects; and after a few days he was ordered to proceed with his detachment towards Midnipoor; but his troops, gunners, musqueteers and horsemen, after marching a little way, stopped short, and refused to move forward, unless they were paid their arrears; and the foremost of the mutineers was his own Brigade. The Viceroy to appease their clamours, sent two of the Lords of his Court, Mirza-hekimbeg, and Gholam-aaly-qhan; and these noblemen did everything in their power to bring those people to a sense of their duty; but all to no purpose. ### [16.4.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.4.3) The next day the Viceroy came up, and immediately repaired to that Commander's quarters, with intention to extinguish the fire of sedition by pouring upon the flames the water of persuasion and promises; and he concluded that by paying down part of their demands, and giving them for the balances assignations upon his own Deputy at the city, the money might be provided for before they should have time to dispatch their agent to receive it. But such proposals availed nothing; and they continued obstinate in their demand of being paid the whole immediately. It was observed that one Mir-afzyl-aaly, an officer of cavalry in Bahadyr-aaly-qhan's Brigade, was so far from endeavouring to put out the flames, that he did everything to afford them fresh fuel. The Viceroy incensed at so much insolence, conceived that, rather than to put up with such a flagitious behaviour, it would be better to put his trust in God Almighty, the Succourer of the afflicted; and with one word he broke that whole detachment, resolved to have nothing to do with such soldiers; after which he advanced to the enemy. This little incident happened to prove the ruin of that thoughtless man, the discarded Fodjdar of Pûrania. On receiving an exaggerated account of this affair, he thoughtlessly imagined that all was over with the Viceroy, whose power was at an end; and immediately he conceived the design of availing himself of the opportunity to effect his escape. ### [16.4.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.4.4) Listening to some favourites as light-headed as himself, he quitted the city without taking leave; and without giving notice of his design, he crossed the Ganga, and repaired to his troops, which he had left encamped on the Maha-nedda; and there putting himself at their head, he marched towards Pûraniah; but Sayd-ahmed-qhan coming to hear of this unexpected proceeding, soon quitted that city; and putting himself at the head of his troops he advanced to oppose him, and marched two or three stages with that view. On this intelligence Faqhr-eddin felt his courage damped; that flash of resolution vanished in a moment, and it was succeeded by as much trepidation. Coming at once to his senses, he sent a respectful letter to Sayd-ahmed-qhan, to deprecate his resentment, and to request his leave to pass by his army in order to depart the country. He was answered, "That to grant such a permission was not in his power, as it depended on the Viceroy his uncle; but that "in his opinion, it would be better for him to return to the place from which he had lately come." That senseless faint-hearted man on this single intimation, marched back, and stopped at Malda, where we shall leave him at present, to return to Aaly-verdy-qhan. As soon as he had broke that whole detachment of mutineers, he put his trust in the Divine assistance; and continuing his march without being intimidated by so great a diminution of his force, as left him without a single piece of cannon, he arrived at Midnipûr. ### [16.4.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.4.5) This arrival gave umbrage to Mir-habib, who had cantoned himself there. Little pleased with such a neighbourhood, he set his barracks on fire, saw the whole consumed, and then retreated with his army. The Viceroy on seeing this, passed the river Cossey without entering Midnipûr, and he encamped on the other side, after sending spies everywhere to take information. In a little time intelligence was brought that the Marhattahs were encamped in a woody tract of ground, on the other side of Midnipûr; upon which he immediately ordered Mir-cazem-qhan and Dost-mahmed-qhan with some other Commanders to pursue the enemy, and to draw some blood from their veins. These marched the whole night, and arriving before daybreak, they fell upon the Marhattahs, sabre in hand; and an engagement ensued, in which valorous actions were performed on both sides, until at last the Marhattahs gave way, and retired towards Catec with much loss and shame, always flying and always followed by the Viceroy, who tired of so hot a pursuit stopped at Balisser-bender, and encamped in that spot. There he learned that Mir-habib and Mana-dji with their Marhattahs and Afghans, not thinking themselves a match for the Bengal army, had fled farther, retiring into the woody mountainous tracts of the Oressa. The Viceroy continuing to advance, went beyond the river that goes by Badrac and Hadjipûr, where he encamped at a place called Bara, which is at about eighteen cosses distance from the city of Catec. ### [16.4.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.4.6) There he received letters and deputies from Seyd-nûr, and Serendaz-qhan, and from the Gentoo Deshemdas, three officers of Infantry who commanded the garrison of Bara-bhati, a fortress close to that city. The purport was "That they were his humble servants, ready to execute any orders he would send them; and that whenever his victorious ensigns should emit " their glorious beams over the walls of that fortress, the gates of " it would be immediately set open; and his humble servants "would make haste to kiss the sublime threshold of his tent, as " they carried on their hands, and on their eyes, the trappings " of fidelity and submission." The Viceroy intent on pursuing Mir-habib did not pay much attention to such an overture. He was following him incessantly; and he arrived at last in an uninhabited plain of difficult broken ground, where the baggage having not been able to keep pace with the troops, victuals and provisions became scarce and dear. The country was so woody, and the trees so close and so tall, that the vanguard, which had marched some cosses before, was lost, and no intelligence could be had of it for three days together; nor, on the other hand, could the troops that composed it, learn themselves where their main might be. The Viceroy concerned at such an incertitude, ordered all the kettle-drums and trumpets to go out of camp at some distance, and to make as much noise as they could. The expedient succeeded; ### [16.4.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.4.7) and the troops that had been thought lost, being guided by the sound, rejoined their main; so that this arrival was celebrated at camp by the whole army, as a festival. I am not unaware that this entrance of Aaly-verdy-qhan's in the woods, and his losing his vanguard there, as well as his making use of so strange an expedient to extricate his troops, looks pretty singular and fabulous; but as it is pretty well attested, and I hold this fact from numbers of persons that were in that army, I have not thought myself at liberty to pass it over. ### [16.5.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.5.1) It being certain now that no footsteps could be traced of either Mir-habib's Afghans or of Mana-dij's Marhattahs, the army marched back; and the Viceroy leaving a body of troops to guard the valley that gives entrance into the woods, put himself at the head of the rest, which did not amount to more than two thousand horse, and marched back with intention to surprise the city of Catec, as well as the fortress of Bara-bhaty. He marched the whole night; and the following day at about noon he crossed the Maha-nedda, which flows by that place, and suddenly displayed the standards of surprise and terror before its walls. But as he had marched by this time full sixteen hours, it happened that out of two thousand horse with which he had set out, no more than three hundred persons could be brought together, when the walls were discovered; and these were so overcome with weariness and fatigue, that so far from being able to fight, not one of them could so much as move a limb; and it must be confessed that this was a strange conduct indeed, and an egregious imprudence in a General so experienced and so wise. For had the garrison at that moment sent out a detachment to fall upon those men half dead with fatigue, he would have infallibly lost in that single day the fruit of so many years' toil, and of so many victories and dangers; his people would have been knocked down, and himself would have shared their fate, and forfeited his character for ever. ### [16.5.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.5.2) But such was his good fortune, and such the prevalence of his destiny, that the garrison, although very numerous, had lost their wits; and thinking they were surrounded by a mighty army, they proposed to surrender. By this time the sun being in its meridian blazed with such intolerable fury, that people dropped down on all sides, not one tent being arrived; so that the plain became as burning as that of the Day of Judgment. In the afternoon two principal officers of the garrison, to wit, Seyd-nur and Derhem-dass, came out of the gates, paid their respects, were dismissed with honour, and then came back with promises to bring Ser-endaz-qhan the next morning at day-break, by which time they were to leave their gates open, and to surrender the fortress. But as the words of the two Deputies were not altogether to be trusted, he gave order to his guards to put them to the sword, should they fail to fulfil their promise; and he appointed Seradj-ed-doula to see the order punctually executed. Accordingly he took his post behind a small tent that was just arrived for his grandfather; and with a number of guards he waited the dawn of that day, which was to be the last of those two unfortunate men. At day-break the two officers made him a profound bow; and then going in, they paid their respects to the Viceroy, who entertained them with kindness. A moment after, appeared Ser-endaz-qhan himself with some more officers of the garrison, and he alighted from his horse; ### [16.5.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.5.3) but hardly had he alighted, than Seradj-ed-doula gave the signal to fall upon him. The man seeing that his life was aimed at on all sides, resolved to sell it as dear as possible; and without losing his presence of mind, he drew his sabre, and fought manfully, all the while endeavouring to make his way to the Viceroy himself. Fate opposed his resolution; and the man having lost a hand, was assaulted by numbers at a time, and fell headlong. Whilst this was transacting without, the two officers within were struck with surprise and horror; but they were secured by the by-standers, and delivered over to the custody of Kishver-qhan, a merciless, relentless Afghan, who spared them no hardships, and took care to turn his tent into a loathsome prison. The garrison hearing how their officers had been used, refused to comply with the agreement; and shutting up their gates, they put themselves upon their defence. The Viceroy who did not think it prudent to lose his time at the foot of a dead wall, appointed a number of officers to besiege the place; and he marched up to Catec, the Capital of the province. These were Mir-djaafer-qhan, and Fakyr-allah-beg-qhan, and Radja Doolobram, with some others who had just arrived from pursuing the enemy. The siege lasted fifteen days, at the end of which, the besiegers, thinking they could resist no more, supplicated Mir-djaafer-qhan and Radja Doolobram to mediate some terms for them; ### [16.5.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.5.4) and these having obtained that no injury should be done to them either in their persons or fortunes, the gates were opened, and the besieged went in a body to the quarters of those two officers. The Viceroy who had the curiosity to visit the fortress, marched in with his guards; nor will the reader be displeased with a short description of either that place or the city. The ground wherein that fortress and the City of Catec are seated, is an island surrounded by the waters of the Maha-nedda, and those of the Cata-djoori. The parts that are washed by the two rivers, are surrounded by a strong wall built with squared stone, serving as a dyke or mound against their inundations. For those rivers which are fordable for one-half of the year, swell so much in the rains that the Maha-nedda becomes a mighty stream of about two cosses (or five miles in breadth), and the Cata-djoori of half as much. But the fortress of Bara-bhati is seated on the Maha-nedda, and about three cosses in circuit. It is built of stone, brick and mortar, with a great deal of art; and a broad ditch faced with stone, surrounds the whole. But the City of Catec itself stretches on the lesser river at about two cosses from the citadel. The Governor's palace and the houses of the nobility and principal citizens (which in general affect the water side, and are mostly seated on the said mound) rising by five and ten yards above the mound, cut a handsome appearance; ### [16.5.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.5.5) and they overlook on both sides of the water a fine extensive plain that stretches from four to five cosses around. The horizon is bounded by a forest of beautiful, lofty trees, that extend as far as the eye can reach, and line the bottom and sides of a chain of high mountains that seem to reach the very sky; and this beautiful prospect with its triple circle of beauties, is enjoyed by the inhabitants the whole year round. As that spot of fortunate ground is surrounded on every side by the waters of two rivers, such a situation renders it very strong; and should any enemy attempt to besiege the place by coming to an understanding with the neighbouring Zemindars, and the siege should chance to be protracted until the beginning of the rainy season, he would find it difficult to subsist, and his convoys would be greatly at a loss how to approach his camp. But independently of that, the country round this island, and indeed throughout the whole Oressa, is very difficult ground, especially about the rainy season, when it becomes so very intersected by frequent rivers, and endless deep torrents, that an enemy would find it impossible to reach the end of his journey. The Viceroy who was abundantly sensible of the consequence of too long a stay, and thought that so much as he had done was well enough, resolved to quit the country at any rate; and he appointed an officer of Cavalry called Sheh-abdol-subhan, a plain, simple unqualified man, to fill the office of his Deputy in Catec. ### [16.5.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16.5.6) The reason of such a choice was this: As there was a strong report that the Marhattahs were lurking in the forest, and would sally forth on the first opportunity, as soon as they should see the passage from Bengal put an end to by the rains, no man of character would choose to accept an office, which was untenable; so that the Viceroy determined to return at any rate, invested the very first man that accepted his invitation; whilst the man himself who did not dream of such a sudden promotion, thought it a good luck sent him from Heaven; and doubtless he had an eye to the known verse: "Dominion, although even for a short time, has still irresistible charms." Nor is there any other way of accounting for so strange a promotion. The Viceroy having in this manner rid himself of this affair, made haste to depart, it being now the month of Assar; for the rains had already set in by the beginning of the month of Djutt, and that too with so much violence as well as perseverance, that not a day passed without rain. So that the little streams which hitherto had afforded hardly any water, now commenced swelling at such a rate, that to get over any single of them proved a work of much time and much difficulty. In some of these indeed the water did not rise above the armpits; but then it ran with so much violence, that it was impossible to cross over. _First 38 of 98 passages. [Read on](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16)_ --- Source: [https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.16) · Pramāṇa