Siyar al-mutaʾakhkhirin 24.13.2

24.13.2

As a further encouragement, he used yearly to make them presents of seeds, which he procured from Lucknow, from Agrah, and from Cabul, especially of musk-melons, serdas, and other fruits; and so soon as they had produced a crop, he purchased that product, and distributed it in presents. At last grapes of a good size and complete maturity, as figs, and several other fruits, came to be in fashion at Azim-abad, and to be sold from one seer and-a-half to two, and three seers to a rupee; insomuch that those rarities are now to be had, not only in gardens of distinction, but even in the shops of the city. After having spoke so much of Shytab-ray's generosity and industry, it is proper we should say something of his religious principles. He was fond of the notions and practices of a Mussulman of sense; for he went into deep and respectful mourning for the Prince of Martyrs, (on whom be peace for ever!) and the twenty-first of the holy month, which is the day of the martyrdom of the Prince of Martyrs and successors, Aaly the Morteza (whose eulogiums may for ever be upon the increase!) he used to order quantities of rice boiled in milk, and other sweetmeats and victuals, to be prepared with the utmost nicety and cleanliness; and these he distributed throughout the city, after having offered a prayer over them. In turning himself from side to side, he had in general the invocation of Ya Aaly, (O Aaly) in his mouth;