The History of Shēr Shāh (Tārīkh-i Shērshāhī) 3.3.2

3.3.2

When the head-men heard these words, they sent to say: "Pardon our past offences, and if hereafter we do anything you do not approve, punish us in any way you choose." Farid Khán sent to say in reply, "Give security, in order that if you offend and abscond, your security may be held responsible for your appearance." So the head-men, whose wives and families he had in confinement, paid what was due from them to Government, and gave security for their appearance, and so released their wives and families. There were some zamíndárs who had committed all sorts of offences, such as theft and highway robbery, and refusing to pay revenue, never came to the Governor's presence, but were insolent from confidence in their numbers. Although these were often warned, they took no heed. Farid Khán collected his forces, and commanded that every one of his villagers who had a horse should come riding upon it, and that he who had not a horse should come on foot. And he took with him half his own soldiers, and the other half he employed in collecting revenue and other local duties.