The History of Fīrūz Shāh (Baranī) 3.9

3.9

When Bughrá Khán heard that his son * * * paid no heed to his letters, he resolved to go and see him, and he wrote him a letter announcing his intention. * * * This letter awakened the Sultán's affection * * * and several letters passed. * * * It was at length arranged that the Sultán would go to Oudh, and that his father should come from Lakhnautí and meet him on the banks of the Sarú. The Sultán's intention was to proceed privately (jarídah) to the Sarú, but his minister opposed this, * * * observing that "the journey was long, and that he ought to travel in state with an army. * * * Old writers had said that in pursuit of dominion fathers will slay their sons, and sons their fathers. Ambition for rule stifles both paternal and filial affection. * * * The Sultán's father had struck coins and caused the khutba to be read in his name—besides, he was the rightful heir to the kingdom, and who could foresee what would happen at the interview. The Sultán ought to proceed with his army in all state and grandeur. * * * The Ráis and Ránas would then come to pay their respects; but if he travelled with haste, all reverence for the kingly office would be lost." * * * His advice was taken by the Sultán, and he directed his army and travelling equipage to be prepared. In due time the Sultán set out in all regal state, with a suitable army, and marching into Oudh he pitched his camp on the banks of the Sarú.