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A Translation of the Seir Mutaqherin (Haji Mustafa) 33 - **Language:** English ## Contents - [33.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.1) — 10 parts - [33.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.2) — 8 parts - [33.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.3) — 8 parts - [33.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.4) — 8 parts - [33.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.5) — 7 parts - [33.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.6) — 8 parts - [33.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.7) — 7 parts - [33.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.8) — 8 parts - [33.9](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.9) — 6 parts - [33.10](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.10) — 2 parts - [33.11](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.11) — 2 parts - [33.12](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.12) — 11 parts - [33.13](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.13) — 7 parts - [33.14](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.14) — 2 parts - [33.15](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.15) — 9 parts - [33.16](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.16) — 9 parts - [33.17](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.17) — 10 parts - [33.18](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.18) — 10 parts - [33.19](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.19) — 9 parts ### SECTION XVI. CONTENTS. ### [33.1.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.1.1) Troubles in Adjmir — Saadat-qhan, appointed to quell those troubles, marches against the Radjpoots of that country, and is worsted — Saadat-qhan's troops perishing with thirst, are generously relieved by the Radjpoots — Saadat-qhan returns to Court, after so disgraceful a campaign, and is dismissed the service — Nasr-ed-dowlah alias Nasr-djung, Viceroy of Decan, overawes the Marhattas by the firmness of his administration — He marches against the French, at Poolchurry, and is slain by a conspiracy — Is succeeded by his cousin, Hedaiet-muhi-eddin-qhan — The French, who cut a great figure in the Decan, set up Selabet-djung, and beat the Marhattas — Ram-doss, Prime Minister of Decan, murdered — Ahmed-shah, the Abdali monarch, marches into Hindostan for the fourth time — Mir-munnoo alias Muain-el-mulk, Viceroy of Punjab, betrayed and defeated — Is well used by the victor — The Court eunuchs submit to an humiliating treaty with the Abdalies — The Vezir, incensed at so shameful a compromise, acts in defiance of his master — Ghazi-eddin-qhan, the Pretender to the Sovereignty of Decan, dies suddenly — Civil War in the middle of the Capital, between the Emperor Ahmed-shah and his Vezir — Mir-sheab-eddin alias Umad-el-mulk is entrusted with the business of pushing the war against the Vezir — Old Delhi plundered by the latter's troops, who at last comes to a compromise with his master — Mir-sheabeddin upon ill terms with his master — He orders the Monarch and his mother to be confined, and afterwards to be blinded — The late Vezir Abool-mansoor-qhan dies — Character and conduct of his son, Shudjah-ed-dowlah — The bad administration of the Viceroy of Mooltan add numbers and unanimity to the Sycs — Troubles in Mooltan and Punjab — The new Vezir Sheab-eddin marches to recover Mooltan — Is insulted by his own troops, so as hardly to escape with his life — Surprises the Governess — Marries her daughter, and carries both the mother and daughter to Delhi — Strange predictions of his mother-in-law — The Abdali-king, incensed at this insult, marches into Hindostan, recovers Lahor, and plunders Delhi—Horrid cruelties of the Abdalies—He returns to his dominions—The French grow powerful in Decan—Nizam-aaly deposes his own brother, Selabut-djung—Troubles in Decan—Daring action of Nizam-aaly—The Marhattas extort fortresses and territories from him—Nizam-aaly, worsted in several engagements, cedes to them a large territory—The fortresses of Bidjapoor, Dowlet-abad, and Assir, ceded to the Marhattas—An historical account of them—War between the English and French—Pondicherry taken by the latter—The Vezir Umad-el-mulk seizes on the Capital, and on the Emperor's person—Some account of Prince Aaly-gohar, now reigning Emperor, under the title of Shah-aalem—His heroical retreat through a whole army—Obliged to fly from the paternal house—He is received everywhere with respect—Umad-el-mulk's intrigues to embroil Shudjah-ed-dowlah and the Rohillas, only serve to bring them to an understanding; ### [33.1.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.1.2) and they both join together and oppose the Marhattas, who had marched a mighty army to achieve the conquest of Hindostan—The Vezir murders both his uncle and the Emperor—Troubles in Mooltan and Punjab, which enable the Marhattas to extend their conquests as far as Lahor—They bring the ferocious Abdalies with their victorious King upon their backs—The Marhattas fight, and are slaughtered everywhere—Battle of Badeli, where they lose seventy thousand men—Another bloody action, in which the Marhattas are destroyed—Shudjah-ed-dowlah waits on the Abdali-monarch—His bold answer to that Prince—The Marhattas, little dismayed, send another mighty army into Hindostan, commanded by one of their Imperial Princes—They take Delhi—Appoint a pageant of an Emperor—Propose an accommodation—Are rejected by Shudjah-ed-dowlah, in an answer full of reproaches—Bloody actions between the Marhattas and Abdalies—The former blockaded in their camp, come to a Pitched battle at Panipoot, where they lose eighty thousand men—The Abdali-monarch returns to his own dominions—Singular appearance of a slain young man—Shudjah-ed-dowlah appointed Vezir to Aali-gohar, now Shah-aalem—Origin of the broils that gave rise to a war between the Marhattas and the English—Nizam-aaly avails himself of them to beat the Marhattas into a very advantageous treaty — Dissensions and several engagements between Maddo-rao, the Marhatta-ruler, and his uncle Ragonat-rao — The latter attempts to take Aoreng-abad, and is vigorously repulsed — Nizam-aaly gives a finishing blow to the Marhatta power — S8r8dj-mull, the Prince Djaat, takes possession of Acbar-abad-agra, with its castle and Royal furniture. ### [33.1.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.1.3) We have said that the Government of Adjmir had been conferred on the Vezir, as well as that of Acbar-abad, that Minister having expressed a predilection for that of Ilah-abad, which bordered on his hereditary Government of A8d. The Viceroyalties of Acbar-abad and Adjmir were bestowed on Saadat-qhan. It was in the year 1161, answering to the first of Ahmed-shah's reign. This change occasioned some strange events. Radja Baht-sing-Rhator, a Prince who to much merit and great military character, joined so much learning, that he had no equal amongst the Radjpoot Princes, availed himself of that change, to revive his claim upon the Dj8deyp8r and other territories, that constituted a principality which had been in his family from ancient times, and which was now withheld by Radja Ram-sing, son to Abi-sing, his nephew. With this view he came to Court, complained to the Emperor, and insinuated himself so well in Saadat-qhan's mind, as to render him desirous of going into his Government of Adjmir, where the Gentoo Prince offered an accession of revenue, on condition of his being righted. At the same time he set out for Nagor, the capital of his hereditary dominions, and was followed a few days after, by Saadat-qhan himself, who reckoned on his assistance, and brought with him about fifteen thousand horse, commanded by men of great characters; such as Aaly-rustem-qhan, nephew to Mir-mushreff; Hekim-qhan, called the Qhobushki; ### [33.1.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.1.4) Fateh-aaly-qhan alias the Governor of Kevol, who received subsequently the surname of Sabut-djung; Mahmed-shudjah-qhan, and Seyd-abdol-aaly-qhan. This last was my uncle, who having been, as we have said in the First Volume, banished from the dominions of Bengal, had come to the capital, where Saadat-qhan had desired him to be his friend, and to accept the command of a body of four hundred horse; for he had brought with him his own horses, elephants, and equipage. Saadat-qhan had with him also, Mir-aaly-asghar-Cobra, of whom we have spoken much in Aaly-verdy-qhan's history; lastly, Mubariz-qhan, with a number of other persons of distinction. He passed the mourning days of the month of Moharrem at Patody, and on the beginning of the year 1163, he arrived at a place called Nimrani, in the Djatt country, where Radja Sorodj-mull had raised a small mud fort, in which he kept a certain number of men. Some of Saadat-qhan's people having picked up a quarrel with those of the fort, drove them away; and it was upon such a mighty success that the new Viceroy ordered his music to play in token of victory; after which getting into his tent, he resolved to halt there. ### [33.1.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.1.5) In the morning, as every one expected that he would pursue his intended journey to Narnoul, in Adjmir, where he had ordered his equipage to proceed, the thoughtless Viceroy, who carried a head without brains, countermanded it at once, and abandoning the original scheme upon Adjmir, he turned his views wholly upon settling the Government of Acbar-abad, and quarrelling with Sorodj-mull the Djatt; nor would he hear of anything else. Aaly-Rostem-qhan, who had two thousand horse of his own, together with Fateh-aaly-qhan, who had seven hundred, were at the head of his vanguard, and had already proceeded on their march, when they were countermanded, and sent for to a Council of War; to which were likewise summoned Hekim-qhan, who commanded the right wing, at the head of two thousand horse; and Mubariz-qhan, who with an equal number, commanded at the left; and also Seyd-abdol-aaly-qhan, and Mir-aaly-Asghar-Cobra, now styled Mumtaz-djung. All these, surprised at this sudden change, were unanimous in their opinions. "They represented that to pick up a quarrel with the Djatt was improper; but that it would be very proper to go on with the original project of taking, first of all, possession of Adjmir, where Abi-sing had offered his assistance and an addition of revenue, and where he was already arrived, to make his preparatives. That by pursuing that scheme, they would put to a trial the quality of their troops, and would also infuse confidence in them, by such a successful expedition. ### [33.1.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.1.6) That this project being once accomplished, it would be then time to think of bringing to order the country of Acbar-abad; and likewise, that here too Abi-sing's "assistance and advice would prove useful; after which it would become an easy matter to bring Sorddj-mull himself to order." This advice was good, but the ignorant Governor was inflexible, and he immediately sent dromedaries to bring back his baggage, a counter-order which those officers were obliged to comply with, and also to forward to others; but it was noon-day before they would come back. The army was ordered to proceed to Soba-chund's Caravanserah, where the Viceroy passed the night. The next morning, he commanded the men of his equipage to set out with Fateh aaly-qhan and his corps, and to make a grand forage. The Djatts informed of this, presented themselves in force, and the Radja himself followed with so much expedition that both armies were in sight at noon. By this time Fateh-aaly-qhan had sent word that both forage and grain had been laden in quantities, and were ready; but that bodies of Djatts were making their appearance, and rendering the march of the convoy impracticable, unless some other Commanders were sent to his assistance. Rbstem-aaly-qhan was immediately ordered on that service with his corps. But before he could arrive, the greatest part of the day was already spent; ### [33.1.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.1.7) so that Hekim-qhan-qhoshbuki, who had been all this while desirous of a quarrel with the Djatts, thinking his honour concerned in this delay, followed him immediately, without being ordered. He had with him as many of his cavalry as were at hand, about seven hundred in all; but by this time there remained no more than two hours of day-light. Hekim-qhan seeing this, sent word to Aaly-rbstem-qhan, that night was coming, and that it would be better to return. The latter answered that Fateh-aaly-qhan was more advanced than him, and that if he could prevail upon him to come back, himself (Aaly-rbstem-qhan) would follow. After having said so much, he galloped up to him, and both joining together went to Fateh-aaly-qhan, to whom they proposed a retreat. The other, becoming prouder by the invitation, answered that they might retreat first, and that he would follow. They represented; they entreated; it did not avail. The two Commanders, seeing his obstinacy, resolved to stay likewise, although the sun was setting, and they sent word to the Viceroy, that the Djatt army was in sight, and so near, as to render a retreat dangerous by night; but that they proposed to pass it upon the spot, in expectation that he, their General, would march immediately with the army to their relief. Instead of that, the obstinate, ignorant Saadat-qhan sent them word to retreat and come back. They obeyed. It soon became dark; ### [33.1.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.1.8) and those men that had been exposed to the heat of the whole day, without either victuals or drink, were hastening to their camp, whilst those that were raw troops and had not yet seen any firing, were endeavouring to distance the others. The cannon, moreover, was ordered to march in front, lest it should be set upon in the dark, and fall into the hands of the enemies. The Djatts observing the confusion in which they marched, followed them, and coming close in small distinct bodies, they commenced an incessant fire upon them, without quitting their horses. On this Aaly-roostem-qhan's elephant growing unruly, Hekim-qhan approached him, and after many efforts and repeated attempts, he at last found means to draw him upon his own elephant. He was hardly seated, and the elephant was rising, when Hekim-qhan received a musket-ball in the throat, and fell dead instantly. Another bullet wounded Aaly-roostem-qhan. The flight now became general. Numbers were slain, and numbers being wounded; the survivors reached Saadat-qhan's camp, which they filled with confusion and fear. The General himself became fearful, and was confounded. ### [33.1.9](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.1.9) And now the advanced troops of the enemy appeared in sight, and setting up a war-cry, they struck up such a panic in Saadat-qhan's breast, that he wanted to get away, and to make his escape, had not Mir-aaly-asgar-cobra and his other Commanders stopped him with threats, and obliged him to stay by main force, keeping so careful an eye upon him, that he could not move. Luckily that the Djatt Prince, having risen only in his own defence, did not choose to abide the consequence of seizing or killing a Lord of Lords, and that he contented himself with besieging the camp for two or three days together; at the end of which he sent proposals by the canal of Fateh-aaly-qhan, an officer with whom he was acquainted. These having been accepted with a great deal of joy, Sooroodj-mull sent his own son, Radja Djevaher-mull, who paid a respectful visit to Saadat-qhan, and concluded an agreement on several conditions, two of which were, that the dependants of the Lord of Lords should not cut any Pipol-tree, nor offer any insult or injury to the temples of the country, or to any object of their worship and veneration. These and some other conditions being agreed to, Saadat-qhan signed the ignominious treaty. Radja Sürüdj-mull added, that should the Viceroy promise upon oath not to advance farther than Narnoul, he would himself follow the army and be assisting in that expedition, with his person and advice; ### [33.1.10](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.1.10) in which case, he would undertake to bring the Radjpoots of those parts to an accommodation, by which they would oblige themselves to the payment of fifteen lacs, which he would take upon himself. ### [33.2.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.2.1) It was after such a ridiculous campaign, and such an infamous accommodation, that Saadat-qhan quitted the Djatt country to resume his expedition towards Narnoul. He was all the while accompanied by the Radja at the head of his Djatts, who always encamped at two or three cosses distance, in such a manner that messages and agents were continually exchanging on both sides; and in this manner they arrived in the neighbourhood of Narnoul, where Baht-sing came to pay his respects to the Viceroy. On hearing of the shameful treaty, lately concluded with the Djatts, he expressed his surprise and detestation, and proposed to him to recover his honour by marching against the Radjpoots of Adjmir, that is, by supporting his own projects. This advice having been approved by Saadat-qhan, it gave offence to the Djatt-Prince, who saw how matters went, and took his leave and returned to his own country, leaving Saadat-qhan at liberty to pursue his expedition. That Viceroy being now arrived near Adjmir, marched on rapidly for twenty cosses, and by Baht-sing's advice he took possession of the Gocul-gaut, a difficult passage, which is near the city of Adjmir. But Radja Ram-sing was soon on the other side of the pass. ### [33.2.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.2.2) This Prince, better known under the name of Docul-sing, had with him the Radja Assiri-sing, son to Radja Dehiradj-djehi-sing-sevai, and both were at the head of an army which could not be less than thirty thousand horse, with a numerous artillery, and every necessary requisite for war. So great a superiority did not damp Saadat-qhan's eagerness. This Viceroy, after spending some days at Adjmir in expectation of being joined by Radja Baht-sing, made haste to come out. The first day's march was to Boorigur; the second to the little mud-fort of Shir-sing; the third to Mirta, and the fourth to a place called Pi-bar, in which last march the two armies had a sight of each other. They had set out on both sides with intention to fight, and Baht-sing had informed Saadat-qhan, that it was not proper to part with him or to march on as he did, as the enemy had planted all his cannon on that side. Saadat-qhan, who had never in his whole life listened to any sober advice, was so senseless as to observe, "That men did not turn about after having once marched in another direction," and he went on as he had commenced. Baht-sing, seeing his obstinacy, left him, and marched on, but slanting from the front, where he knew so much cannon to have been planted. The Radjpoots, who had passed the night close to their cannon, seeing Saadat-qhan's troops advance so inconsiderately, kept themselves quiet and in silence, until the enemy had come within reach; ### [33.2.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.2.3) when they let fly such a shower of cannon and musket-balls, as did a great deal of execution in the enemy's ranks, where vast numbers were slain. This discharge was but faintly returned by Saadat-qhan's people, who were already in confusion. It was already noon-day; the sun shone with intolerable ardour, and the cannon and muskets became so hot that there was no handling any of them. A cessation of arms, as if by common consent, took place.—Saadat-qhan's men, pressed by thirst, in a country where water is scarce, dispersed everywhere, and numbers approached inadvertently close to the Radjpoots in search of that refreshment. The Radjpoots perceiving their distress, by the parchedness of their faces, and the lolling of their tongues, had the generosity to send people to shew them some springs hidden in the sand; and these men, after having refreshed plentifully, both man and horse, would carry them back to the spot where they had taken them up, and would dismiss them with these words: Begone, and avaunt! For now we are enemies again. ### [33.2.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.2.4) The sudden cessation on both sides, and the assistance given so timely by the Radjpoots, hath something odd and incredible in it, but they are, however, completely well attested. I put the question to several officers and others that had been relieved in that manner, and amongst others, to Seyd Ismail-aaly-qhan, son to my uncle, Abd8l-aaly-qhan; and he, as well as the others, always answered in the affirmative. Nor is it but upon such a strong testimony, that I have thought this particular worthy of a place in this history. This behaviour of the Radjpoots does them a deal of honour; but such a generosity is in their character. May God Almighty please to infuse such benevolent inclinations in the hearts of all the nations of the World! For He is the source of all power and all mercifulness. This spot is not far from the mountains of Dj8deyp8r, not above twenty or thirty cosses distance, or at most three days' journey. Saadat-qhan, desirous to get out of such a critical spot, and unable, moreover, to go on with the expenses of an expedition that produced no resource, at a time too when the rainy season was at hand, resolved to make an accommodation, and to return to Adjmir, and so on to the Capital. In vain did Baht-sing represent, "That this expedition was more important than anything to be compassed in the Capital. ### [33.2.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.2.5) That the Princes of that country, being the noblest of all the Radjp8ts, and such as were acknowledged for having reigned in time of yore all over Hindostan, the bringing them under subjection would not only greatly redound to his honour, and engage the other Zemindars to submit of their own accord, but would in time produce such fruits as would surpass his utmost expectations. In vain did he add, that so soon as the country of Adjmir should be subdued, his character, enhanced in the eyes of men by such an expedition, would be greatly conducive in bringing to terms the Djatt S8r8dj-mull, and in reducing to controul the country about Acbar-abad." All those reasons produced no change in his mind. And this is the more unaccountable, as Baht-sing had during this whole expedition proved of great service, notwithstanding the junction effected between the Marhattas, commanded by Malhar's son, and the enemy; for he had all along supplied the army with necessaries, and had exhibited much wisdom and a variety of talents, in occasionally extricating it from its difficulties. Finding that Saadat-qhan was bent on an accommodation, he kept himself at home, without interfering any more. The Marhatta General likewise took his leave of Ram-sing, and of Assir-sing's son, and went home. ### [33.2.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.2.6) Saadat-qhan having by treaty received three lacs of rupees, suffered the rest to be put off in a variety of instalments, consisting of money and effects, which were to be paid so much at such a place, and so much at another. After this treaty, he quitted Peipar, and arrived at Adjmir, at which place my uncle, Seyd Abdool-aaly-qhan, being sensible of Saadat-qhan's levity and want of understanding, resigned his service, and took his leave. But as he had run himself in debt in a service, which yielded nothing that year but a prospect of preferment, he was obliged to sell his elephants, and some of his furniture, in order to pay his troops and his creditors; after which he returned immediately to Shah-djehan-abad, where hearing that the Vezir was gone on an expedition against the Afghans, he only tarried three days in that Capital, and marched out to join him; and he was already advanced to Kevol, when he met some of the runaways of the Vezir's army. The Vezir himself arrived the next day. Abdool-aaly-qhan having found here an opportunity of paying that Minister his respects, returned with his retinue to the Capital; where on being asked his advice a few days after, he proposed taking into his service Radja Baht-sing, as well as the two Marhatta Generals. As to Saadat-qhan, after spending one year and some months in that fruitless expedition, he arrived at the Capital in the beginning of the year 1164; ### [33.2.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.2.7) and as he had lost his character in that expedition, where he had carried little money and numerous troops, he was, on his return, perpetually reproached and insulted by those people, who insisted upon being paid their arrears. Becoming contemptible by so many repeated assaults and insults, he had the folly to expect a supply of money from the Emperor; and as he was not heard, he had the imprudence to mention the Emperor's name, as well as that of Djavid-qhan, his favourite, in terms of disrespect; making so little secret of his sentiments when at home, that they became the constant topic of his conversation. Not satisfied even with that, he in a fit of passion, resolved to go to Court and to get himself righted, happen what it would. He mounted his horse, and taking his spear in his hand, he got within the Palace, and attempted to go as far as the Emperor, to whom he intended to represent his grievances in an angry tone of voice. Djavid-qhan, the Superintendent of the Hall of Audience, seeing in what plight he was, requested him not to appear in the Emperor's presence. The other finding himself obstructed, vented his resentment both against His Majesty and the eunuch, in such terms as came uppermost, and after that, he returned home; but he was hardly landed, when a body of soldiers came to confiscate his property. And thus from the summit of honour and affluence, he fell in a little time into the greatest contempt and distress. ### [33.2.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.2.8) His title of "Lord of Lords" was bestowed on Ghazi-eddin-qhan, eldest son to the late Nizam-el-mulk, who received the Qhylaat of it the next day; and Saadat-qhan, deprived of everything, went to live in obscurity and oblivion. It is time for us now to resume the narrative about the affairs of Decan. ### [33.3.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.3.1) Nassyr-djung-nasr-ed-dowlah, second son and successor of Nizam-el-mulk, was a young man of talents, of much natural genius, and much bravery. To his capacity for government, he joined a cultivated understanding, being fond of poetry, and often composing himself; and although raised so young to the pinnacle of power, he early exhibited a number of good qualities. He even commanded as his father's Deputy, when the latter died of a looseness. As soon as he had assumed the administration in his own name, he marched against the Marhattas, and beat them so often, that he taught them to fear his person and to respect his dominions, as we shall soon explain in the following sheets. The dread of his power and his valour had so far taken possession of their hearts, that they did not dare to move out of their own country, during his lifetime; nor have we any instance of their having been kept in awe by any one so much as by him. Having been commanded to the presence by the Emperor Ahmed-shah, in the year 1162, he had advanced as far as the Nerbedda at the head of a numerous cavalry, when a counter-order came, with which he complied the more willingly, as his cousin, Hedaiet-muhi-eddin-qhan, was pretending to independence. He therefore turned about, and marched against him with seventy thousand good horse, and one lac of infantry. ### [33.3.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.3.2) Muhi-eddin-qhan, surnamed Muzafer-djung, or the "Victorious in War," descended from Saad-ollah-qhan, Vezir to Shah-djehan, and was son of a daughter of Nizam-el-mulk, in whose lifetime he had enjoyed the Viceroyalty of Bidjapoor for several years together. But as soon as his uncle was dead, and he heard that his successor, Nasr-djung, had advanced as far as the Nerbedda with the flower of his troops, he availed himself of the opportunity to assume independence. With this view, he attached to himself Hussein-dost-qhan alias Chenda-sahab, a man of importance in the Carnatic, whose family cut a principal figure in the city of Arcat, and the latter exhorted him to render himself master of that province. This country was these many years governed by Anver-eddin-qhan, surnamed Shahamet-djung, or the "Valiant in War," a native of Gopamau, who had been appointed to the office of Nazem, or Military Governor, by Nizam-el-mulk himself. Hedaiet-muhi-eddin-qhan having assembled a mighty army from the French of Pülcherry, with whom Chenda-sahab had made a treaty, attacked Anver-eddin-qhan, and after a battle in which this Governor exerted himself like a brave man, defeated him intirely. It was on the sixteenth of Shaaban in the year 1162. ### [33.3.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.3.3) Nasyr-djung, who was then at Aoreng-abad, hearing of this event, resolved to chastise his cousin, and although that Capital is at no less than five hundred measured cosses from the sea-coast, on which is seated the town of Pülcherry, he hastened thither on the wings of expedition and resentment; and so early as the sixth of the second Rebi, in the year 1163, he engaged Hedaiet-muhi-eddin-qhan, and totally defeated him. The victory was at first disputed, but the zephyr of Divine assistance was at last pleased to blow upon Nassyr-djung's drooping standards. Hedaiet-muhi-eddin-qhan was taken prisoner, and the victorious Prince, finding that the rainy season was at hand, took up his winter-quarters at Arcat. He had in his army a body of Afghans settled in the Carnatic, and commanded by Himmet-qhan, and some other officers of that nation. Those ungrateful wretches, forgetful of the favours conferred upon them by both the father and son, and unmindful of the gratitude and attachment they owed him in return, conceived the design of stripping their Lord both of his treasures and dominions; and joining with the Prince's prisoner, and the French of Pûlcherry, they, on the seventeenth of Moharrem, according to Astronomical computation, and the sixteenth, according to the vulgar one, fell on that Prince's quarters at midnight, and filled them with confusion and disorder. ### [33.3.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.3.4) Himmet-qhan, who had always professed himself his zealous servant, having advanced to him with a musket in his hand, fired at his breast, and laying him at his feet, he sent that mighty Prince to the Regions of Nothingness. It was in the year 1164 of the Hedjrah. After this, the camp was nothing but a scene of confusion and dismay and mistrust; but some of those personally attached to that unfortunate Prince, took up his body, and carried it to Aoreng-abad, where they buried it in the Garden of Saint Burhan-eddin, the Arabian, close to the tomb of his father, Nizam-el-mulk. The Poet Mir-ghoolam-aaly, the Belgiamite, who had lived upon terms of friendship and intimacy with him, and had enjoyed great offices in his Court, had drawn his chronogram in these verses: "The illustrious Navvab, that great lover of justice, is gone. "The sword of destiny did not give him time to display his great talents — he "went away so soon; "He was martyred the seventeenth of Moharrem, "And the afflicted Poet has discovered his chronogram in these words: — "The sun is gone, raise your lamentations and weep!" The Hand that wrote the events of Nassyr-djung's life in Heaven, having so suddenly closed its book, Hedaiet-muhi-eddin-qhan, from being kept a close prisoner, assumed the ensigns of Royalty, and displayed the standard of command and dominion. Taking with him a body of French, and the ungrateful Afghans, he set out from Pûlcherry for Haider-abad. ### [33.3.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.3.5) But the Supreme Avenger had already sown the seeds of retribution for the murder of Nassyr-djung, and they had taken so deep a root, that both the new Prince and the Afghans harboured already the utmost distrust and resentment against each other. The former had even taken measures with the French for destroying the Afghans, and especially Himmet-qhan, the Carnatican; so that on the seventeenth of the first Rebi, exactly two months after Nassyr-djung's murder, at a time when the army was encamped at Lacra-pilly, and seemed to have hidden the whole earth under the immense extent of its tents, the new Prince suddenly mounted his elephant with an intention to attack the Afghans, and to make an end of them. Himmet-qhan, who was upon his guard, advanced to meet him at the head of a numerous body of his own countrymen, and it happened that, by a particular disposition of a watchful Providence which sought to avenge Nassyr-djung's murder, both the perpetrators, that is, Himmet-qhan and Hedaiet-muhi-eddin-qhan, were slain in the engagement. Hedaiet-muhi-eddin-qhan is the first in India who sought assistance from Nazareans, and who by introducing those strangers into his dominions ruined his own family. ### [33.3.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.3.6) There was then in the army a certain Ramdass, a black Brahman of Sicacol, who had enjoyed a small pay in some of Nassyr-djung's offices, and this man, who had the merit of having successfully intrigued with the French, and procured the death of Nassyr-djung, had been taken into favour by the new Prince, and made a Prime Minister, and honoured with the surname of Radja Ragonat-dass. This man came now to cut an important figure. As to Hedaiet-muhi-eddin-qhan, he was fond of study and knowledge, and was versed in books; but he made a parade of his learning, and his friends have praised him too much. During that two days' reign of his, Baladji-rao, the Marhatta, had marched from Poona to Aoreng-abad with a numerous army, which Shah-nevaz-qhan, the Governor of that country, found means to send back by a present of fifteen lacs of rupees. Hedaiet-muhi-eddin-qhan having lost his life in expiation of Nassyr-djung's murder, and Himmet-qhan with his Afghans, those sworn enemies of Nizam-el-mulk's offspring, having been sent to roam in the desert of Nothingness, Ramdass, who had assumed the office of Deputy-General, and had the French in his party, raised to the throne Seyd Mahmed-qhan, surnamed Selabet-djung, or the "Steadfast in Battles," third son of Nizam-el-mulk. The new Prince immediately, on his accession, attached to his service both Ramdass and the French, with whom he marched to Aoreng-abad, where he passed the rainy season; ### [33.3.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.3.7) and on the return of the fair weather, he marched out with an intention to chastise Baladji-rao for his late invasion. With that view he assembled his troops at Ahmed-nagor, from whence he continued his route directly to Poona. Baladji-rao, without suffering him to come so far, met him half-way with an army of fifty thousand horse, but was defeated; at which time the French with their quick musketry and their expeditious artillery drew smoke from the Marhatta breasts. Selabet-djung, after that victory, ruined and devastated the whole country as far as Poona, where a greater engagement took place on the beginning of the year 1765. It was in Moharrem, in which whole month the moon had remained eclipsed; and the Marhattas, together with their General, having been endlessly busy in performing the religious duties enjoined on such a particular phenomenon, they were set upon in the night with so much success, that they lost a vast number of men, which the French consumed in shoals at the fire-altars of their artillery. Baladji-rao, who was actually busy at his devotions, and naked, had hardly time to throw himself upon an unsaddled mare, on which he saved his life, by flying with all his might. The implements of his worship, which were all of gold, fell in the hands of both the Mussulmen and the Nazareans. ### [33.3.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.3.8) But notwithstanding this mighty victory, such was the spirit of division that had seized Nizam-el-mulk's family and army, that the victorious Selabet-djung, so far from reaping any fruit from this victory, was himself in imminent danger, and on the point of succumbing. ### [33.4.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.4.1) As the army, on its return, was marching over the plain of Paleki, on the tenth of the first Djamady of the year 1165, the Prime Minister Ramdass was set upon by some troops, and killed outright. Selabet-djung continued his journey to Haider-abad, from whence he sent for Shah-nevaz-qhan whom he invested with the office of Prime Minister, and of his Lieutenant-General. The new Minister was going to apply to the duties of that important station, when sudden intelligence came that the Prince of Princes, Ghazi-eddin-qhan, having obtained the investiture of all the Soobahdaries of Decan, was coming at the head of a mighty army. On this intelligence, Shah-nevaz-qhan left a Deputy to execute his office, and departed for Kermla, the residence of Djanodji-salhar, a Marhatta Prince of the Barar. The intention of this sudden voyage was to engage that Prince, and likewise Baladji-rao, who had been in connection with the Minister so early as the times of Nizam-el-mulk, to mediate an accommodation between Selabet-djung and his competitor, who had amongst his troops a large body of Marhatta Cavalry commanded by Holkar-malhar. On Shah-nevaz-qhan's departure from Haider-abad, Semsam-ed-dowlah was invested with the government of that Capital; ### [33.4.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.4.2) but Ghazi-eddin-qhan suddenly dying at Aoreng-abad, Holkar-malhar, who had got from him the gift of the whole country of Qhandess, Sunk-mer, and Djalna, obtained from Selabet-djung a confirmation of the grant, and proved the only man that had benefited by those mighty troubles. After this, Shah-nevaz-qhan quitted Kermla, and joined his master who had advanced near Aoreng-abad to fight his brother and rival. There he re-assumed his office of Lieutenant-General, sent back Semsam-ed-dowlah to Haider-abad, and as the rainy season was approaching, both the Prince and the Minister took up their winter-quarters in that city. ### [33.4.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.4.3) It was in this year 1164, that Radja Assiri-sing, son to Radja Adjet-sing-sevai, departed this life, and a report spread that he had been poisoned. The Rana of Oodeipur died at the same time. It is also in this same year that Nassyr-djung, having been attacked by the French in the night, was in the confusion murdered by his ungrateful Afghan soldiers; and this intelligence reaching the Court at the end of the year, his elder brother, Ghazi-eddin-qhan, took mourning for him, and being sent for to Court, was complimented with a Qhylaat to that effect. As he was extremely displeased with the Court, he resolved to assume the Government of the whole Decan, and to make his residence there; but the Ministers insisted upon a present. This affair took up some days, when it was accomplished at last; and the Qhylaat of that mighty Viceroyalty having been bestowed upon him, he departed to take possession, as we have already said. After having given in this manner some account of the troubles in Decan, let us cast our eyes on those that arose on the affairs of Hindostan. In the year 1165 Ahmed-shah, the Abdaly, came into that country for the fourth time, and marched towards Lahor. But the Viceroy Mir-mannu, alias Muaien-el-mulk, being informed of his coming, was beforehand with him, and not only resisted his attacks for four months together, but several times came out and drove him to a distance; insomuch that the Abdaly Prince became sensible that there was no going farther. ### [33.4.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.4.4) But jealousy and inner divisions, that bane of all Hindostani affairs, defeated so much resolution and so much good conduct. Adina-beg-qhan, by his eternal treacheries, ruined this brave nobleman also; and Radja Coramul, his Divan, a man really attached to his master, having been slain, all went to wreck after his death, and Mir-mannu was overcome, as we are going to explain. The repeated engagements between the two parties had already lasted four months, when Adina-beg-qhan, who intended treason under the mask of friendship, persuaded the Viceroy that it was now time to quit his intrenchment, and to advance in the plain. Coramul opposed this advice, and was of opinion that they ought to remain as they were three or four days more, after which the Abdali wanting provisions, and already tired of so bloody and so fruitless an expedition, would retire of his own accord. This was the wisest step; but the Viceroy, prompted by his own ardour and courage, listened to the importunities of Adina-beg-qhan, and coming out of his post he advanced towards the Abdali camp, and in his way stopped at some lofty ground covered with brick-kilns, where he had planted his cannon. But this cannon after one discharge was found to want ammunition, whilst a large number of camels, each loaded with a couple of Zemberecks or Swivels, of one pound-ball, came from the Abdali's side, and by Adina-beg-qhan's advice, opened upon the Hindostanies; the Abdalies at the same time made an attack upon the camp. ### [33.4.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.4.5) In this emergency Adina-beg-qhan proposed to call Radja Cûramul with a body of troops from the intrenchment. The latter sent for answer that yesterday he had opposed the Viceroy's going out, and now he was afraid that should he move from his post, the soldiers, on seeing the back of his elephant, would think it a flight, and would possibly follow; an error which would be enough to bring on a defeat. As the Viceroy found himself pressed, repeated orders were sent to Cûramul to come. Cûramul surprised and afflicted at the preciseness of the order, assembled his Commanders, and having recommended to them firmness and resolution, he mounted his elephant, and went towards his master. He had hardly advanced one coss from camp, when he perceived that those very Commanders, whom he had just been haranguing, were in motion for a flight, with all their troops in the greatest disorder. Straight he returned back, and putting himself at the head of a few troops that made a stand, he repulsed the Abdalies; and he was following them out of the intrenchment, when he was struck by a musket-ball that obliged him to surrender his soul to his Maker. This man was his master's universal agent, and the very soul of the army. On seeing him fall, soldiers and officers took to flight; and the Viceroy having returned to the city, sent the Mufti Abdollah to make an accommodation, in which it was agreed that Mir-mannu should wait on Ahmed-shah-abdali. ### [33.4.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.4.6) This being agreed to, the latter sent Djehan-qhan, an officer of distinction, to bring him to his camp, which commission this officer executed with the utmost deference and respect. The Shah received the Viceroy with the utmost kindness, made use of mild expressions to console him, and having appointed him his Deputy and Lieutenant both in Lahor and Multan, he returned towards Cabûl and Candahar, two places that had become the Capitals of his dominions, and the places of his residence. From that day those two rich provinces of Pendjab and Mültan were severed from the Empire of Hindostan, and added to the new monarchy of the Abdalies. ### [33.4.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.4.7) Whilst the Abdaly King was stopped short by Mir-mannü, he sent an Ambassador to the Court of Delhi. It was Calender-qhan. This step having made impression on the Court of Delhi, which became apprehensive that the Abdalies would soon come upon the Capital, the Ministers wrote repeatedly to Abul-mansür-qhan, the Vezir, to take the Marhatta Malhar with him, and to return to Court with the utmost expedition. The Vezir having sent for Malhar, engaged him, under promise of a mighty sum, to make the campaign with him; and he returned with his army, and with that General to the Capital. But meanwhile Djavid-qhan, the eunuch, who now acted as Prime Minister, finding himself supported by a party of treacherous Grandees, all jealous of the fresh accession of glory which the Vezir might gain a second time, made haste to clap up a peace with Calender-qhan; and having granted him all his demands, as well as the cession of Pendjab and Mültan, he quickly dismissed him from the Capital. ### [33.4.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.4.8) The Vezir being arrived after this treaty, was shocked at so shameful a compromise, and at so much precipitation. In his resentment and indignation, he refused to come into the city, and encamped on the other side of the Djumna. He afterwards sent word to the Ministers, that it was at their requests that he had brought the Marhatta Malhar with his whole cavalry, under promise of a mighty sum of money; and now that they had rendered that assistance unnecessary, who was to satisfy the Marhatta's claims? Such a requisition could not but embarrass them; but they were rescued out of their difficulties by a lucky event. Ghazi-eddin-qhan, who had put on his Qhylaat for the Viceroyalty of all the Decan, was stopped short by the Ministers, who previously insisted on a Pishcush or present, which the other wished to avoid. It was at this time that the Vezir sent his message, and put it in the Viceroy's power to avail himself now of the difficulties under which the Court laboured, in order to carry his point. He sent them word that, if they would give him his patents without delay, he would undertake to satisfy Malhar's demands, and would also take that General with him. The proposal being accepted, he appointed his own son as his Deputy at Court, took Malhar with him, and departed for his new Government. ### [33.5.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.5.1) After this departure, the Vezir entered the city, but took up his abode in his own Palace. Here he was greatly discontented, and shocked to see an eunuch, like Djavid-qhan, dictate in all matters of State, and govern the Emperor's mind; and could by no means agree that such a man should have made a peace that dishonoured the Empire, by giving up two important provinces, which had left open a large breach for the enemy's incursions into the heart of Hindostan. He was likewise jealous of the omnipotence of the Empress-mother and of her eunuch, shocked at their meddling with every affair of State, and uneasy at their being both leagued against him. Whilst the Vezir was brooding upon his discontent, an event happened which gave offence to all the world. The Emperor prompted by these two persons, had raised one Mia-qhan, a brother of his mother, but an actor by profession, to the military grade of seven thousand horse, and to the surname of Muatekud-ed-Doulah, or "Trustworthy of the Empire," and to support the State incumbent upon such high titles, this man had been complimented with a complete household of elephants, horses, &c., together with the late Emir-qhan's Palace, ready furnished, as it was. By this profusion, he brought this man forwards, and made him figure amongst the mightiest Lords of the Empire, although it must be acknowledged that the new Lord was not destitute of good qualities, and did not avail himself of his favour but to oblige and to do good. ### [33.5.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.5.2) This promotion, however, was looked upon as an affront to themselves, by all the Grandees of the Empire, and especially by the Vezir, who resolved to rid himself of the umbrage which Djavid-qhan gave him perpetually. This eunuch, who trusted so much to his influence, that he rubbed his forehead against the third heaven, had the imprudence to accept of an entertainment at the Vezir's palace, where Aaly-beg-qhan, the head Nassiqh-chi, alias Shitab-djung, ripped open his belly with a stroke of a poniard, and killed him instantly. This execution which had taken place by the Vezir's order, exasperated the Emperor and his mother, and, in order to ruin such an overbearing Minister, they resolved to join Intyzam-ed-dowlah and all his other enemies. ### [33.5.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.5.3) Whilst the Court seemed convulsed with dissensions and jealousies, Ghazi-eddin-qhan was advancing by long stages to Aoreng-abad, one of the Capitals of Decan, where he made his entry, having with him the Marhatta Malhar, with his whole cavalry. But this man, who knew the difficulties under which his new master laboured, availed himself of his situation to request that the province of Qhandess should be made over to him to insure the payment of his troops; and the Prince, not thinking it proper in the beginning of his expedition to discontent a man at the head of such a force, gave him the patent of it under his hand and seal; and thus that fine province, the extent of which reaches to the very gates of Aoreng-abad, passed at once under the Marhatta dominion on these easy terms. Ghazi-eddin-qhan, soon after this, on the seventeenth day after his arrival at that Capital, died suddenly; so that his army and friends which had followed him from so far, in hopes of bettering their fortunes, having now lost their leader, dispersed of themselves, and none remained but his household servants, who, unwilling to leave their master's body in a foreign land, took it by turns upon their shoulders, and carried it to Shah-djehan-abad; and in this manner the dominion of all the Decans remained to Selabet-djung. The death of Ghazi-eddin-qhan set young Mir-sheab-eddin, his son, to work. ### [33.5.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.5.4) He had been left in the Capital as Deputy to his father, in his office of "Lord of Lords." The Emperor thought it enough to continue the young man in the enjoyment of certain surnames and titles that appeared to be hereditary in the family, and accordingly he was called, as well as his father and grandfather, "The Champion of the Law, — The Prop of the Kingdom, — The Brave Commander, ever Victorious in War." But as all these honours did not imply anything of his having been admitted as successor to his father, in his title and office of Lord of Lords, he went to the Vezir's house, and he so affected both that Minister and his consort with compassion on his orphan condition, that the Vezir obtained his request from the Emperor. But the ungrateful young Lord, forgetting the education he had received in that Minister's house where he had learned several languages, acquired a taste for poetry, and had become a learned man as well as a good soldier, henceforward turned his back on his benefactor; and unmindful of the many obligations he owed to that family, and the constant support he had received from it, he joined Intyzam-ed-dowlah, and the Emperor with his mother, in the conspiracy of oversetting the Vezir and demolishing his power. Nor was it long before the Minister had information of this conspiracy; ### [33.5.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.5.5) for in a few days the Emperor sent him word, to desire his leaving to His Majesty the disposal of the artillery and of the bathing-place, that is, the private apartments, and he recommended to him a better discharge of his duty as a Vezir. For the latter, sensible that a breach had now taken place between himself and his master, abstained henceforward from going to Court; and the Emperor intimidated at this, commenced caressing him anew, and he even went to see him; in which visit he excused what had passed, and seemed to have regained his heart. But as the reconciliation on either side went no farther than the lips, and it was evidently defective in truth and sincerity, months after months were spent in fruitless negotiations, to the very beginning of the year 1166, and even the first six months of that year were taken up in negotiations, and likewise in giving birth to some events which we are to mention. The Vezir was at a loss how to act. To levy war against the Emperor seemed both improper and odious, and, on the other hand, he apprehended that the conspiracy aimed at his life, as well as at his power and influence. The truth is, that he had neither that fund of policy, nor that blaze of daringness, requisite for an enterprise of such a high nature; he had not that disregard to scruples, necessary to a man that had conceived such high-flown projects, nor that stiffness of mind that enables him to overlook all obstacles, and to set at nought all considerations; ### [33.5.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33.5.6) he wanted also a sufficient extent of genius to take an adequate view of the strength of his party, and he had too high an opinion of that of his enemies. In fact, such was the opinion entertained of his power, in the beginning of the troubles, and so inconsiderable appeared in comparison both Intyzam-ed-dowlah, and that child of Mir-sheab-eddin that, had he only opened his mouth, there were many Commanders in his service, who on a single order of his would have gone, seized, and bound those two Lords in their very lodgings; nor had either of them dared to offer the least resistance in such a case. Destiny blinded the Vezir's eyes, and shut up his ears effectually. And the Emperor sensible of his irresolution, wrote him a note at midnight, the purport of which had been agreed to in a Council between those two Lords and the Court eunuchs. It was in the Emperor's own hand. The Emperor having sent for the Deputy-Grandmaster of the artillery, who, as such, had the command of the Citadel of Shah-djehan-abad on the Vezir's part, bid him carry the note himself, and added to it a long message upon several subjects. The foolish man excused himself on the impropriety of quitting his post; but the Emperor insisted, adding that it was for a matter of importance which admitted of no delay. The man had the simplicity to take up the note, and to carry it directly. _First 40 of 161 passages. [Read on](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33)_ --- Source: [https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.mughal.later.siyar-al-mutaakhkhirin~en-mustafa.33) · Pramāṇa