The Nāṣirī Generations 287.3.1

287.3.1

This votary, who is Minhaj-i-Saraj, the writer of this Tabakat, and author of this history, upon three different times, had occasion to travel into that part [the Kuhistan] on a mission. The first occasion was in the year 621 H., from the fortress of Tulak, after Khurasan had become cleared of the Mughal forces, on account of the scarcity of clothing, and dearth of some requisites, which had run out in consequence of the irruption of the infidels ; and people were distressed for necessaries of life. At the request of Malik Taj-ud-Din, Hasan-i-Salar, Khar-post, the author proceeded from the fortress of Tulak to Isfirar, in order to open the route for karwans. From thence he proceeded towards Ka-in, and from that place to the fort of Sar-i-Takht, and Jowarkher, and Farman-dih of the territory of the Kuhistan. At that time the Muhtashim [of the Mulahidah] was Shihab-i-Mansur, Abu-l-Fath. I [the author] found him a person of infinite learning, with wisdom, science, and philosophy, in such wise, that a philosopher and sage like unto him there was not in the territory of Khurasan. He used greatly to cherish poor strangers and travellers ; and such Musalmans of Khurasan as had come into proximity with him he was wont to take under his guardianship and protection.