Tarikh-i Iradat Khan 3.2

3.2

Mun'im Khan related to me afterwards the following anecdote in these words : "When I perceived that my attachment, sincerity, and abilities had properly impressed Shah 'Alam's mind, and that he was convinced I was a prudent, faithful, and secret servant, being alone one day with him conversing on the affairs of the empire, I took the liberty of thus addressing him : 'It is reported that Your Highness intends flying to Persia, with so much confidence, that even the Princes, your sons, assure me by sacred oaths of its truth.' He replied, 'In this rumour there lies concealed a great design, to forward which I have spread it abroad and taken pains to make it believed. First, because my father, on a mere suspicion of disloyalty, kept me nine years in close confinement ; and should he even now think that I cherished the smallest ambition, he would immediately strive to accomplish my ruin. Secondly, my brother Muhammad A'zam Shah, who is my powerful enemy, and valiant even to the extreme of rashness, would exert all his force against me. From this report my father is easy, and my brother lulled into self-security ; but, by the Almighty God who gave me life' (laying his hand on the Kuran by him), 'and on this holy book, I swear, though not one friend should join me, I will meet A'zam Shah in single combat, wherever he may be. This secret which I have so long maintained, and even kept from my own children, is now entrusted to your care.