Siyar al-mutaʾakhkhirin 25.10.7

25.10.7

Haider-naic originally was a Commander in the service of the French in Decan, in which he commenced by serving as a Naic, which signifies a Commander of ten or fifteen men. By degrees he rose to the offices of Djemaat-dar, Soobadar Comidan (Commandant,) which last is the highest title of command to which one can attain amongst the nations of hat-wearers. What appears very singular, is that notwithstanding that superior station, the surname of Naic stuck to him ever after. In the sequel he served the Radjahs of Decan, made himself a character, and acquired much power; and becoming famous little by little, he was taken into the service of the Radja of Malavar, where in a little time he fell out with that Prince's Divan, who according to the custom of that country, disposed of the revenues and expenditures of that Prince, and directed all his Councils absolutely. Haider-naic, who despised that Minister's pusillanimity, as much as he confided on his own valour and talents, had the boldness to fall upon him in broad day-light, and to kill his rival; after which he took possession of his office. From that day he acted with an absolute sway in every thing, but still with the policy of leaving the Radja alive, and in his usual employment. That Prince is still alive; and whenever his keeper thinks is proper, he is produced in public as an ancient relic; at which time he never fails to pay him every mark of respect and veneration.