The Events of Mushtāqī 9.2

9.2

and pots of water were placed at the doors of the sarais for the use of Musulmans and Hindus. At every sarai a masjid, a royal chamber (khanah-i badshahi), and a well were constructed; and to every mosque a mu'azzin (crier), an imam (priest), and shikdar (manager) were appointed, and lands were allotted at the place for their support. From Gaur to the confines of Oudh, a road was made having sarais, gardens, and shady and fruit-bearing trees. Another road with gardens and sarais from Benares to the country of Mandu near to Burhanpur. Another road with gardens and sarais from Agra to Jodhpur. Another from Bayana to Jaunpur and to Ajmir. There were 1700 sarais, and at every sarai there were pairs of horses ready, so that news travelled 300 kos in one day. [Here follows the story quoted in the note on page 418.] Sher Shah was occupied night and day with the business of his kingdom, and never allowed himself to be idle. At the end of night he arose, performed his ablutions, and said his prayers. Afterwards he called in his officers and managers to report all the occurrences of the day. For four hours he listened to the reading of reports on the affairs of the country or on the business of the Government establishments. The orders which he gave were reduced to writing, and were issued and acted upon; there was no need of further discussion. Thus he remained engaged till morning (fajar) arrived.