Travels in the Mogul Empire (Bernier) 2.10.4

2.10.4

Notwithstanding this semblance of fealty to his younger brother, Aureng-Zebe was actively employed day and night in writing to the Omrahs, whom he brought over gradually to his party. Chah-hest-kan, his uncle, was unwearied in promoting the views of his nephew, and was indeed an invaluable coadjutor, being active, intelligent, and possessed of extensive influence. He had the reputation of writing the most insinuating letter, and using the most persuasive eloquence, of any man in Hindoustan. It is known that owing to some real or imaginary affront he greatly disliked Dara, and therefore embraced this opportunity of contributing to his downfall. Aureng-Zebe concealed under the garb of disinterestedness and purity of intention his raging passion for sovereignty. Everything that was done, the negotiations entered into, and the promises made, all was in Morad-Bakche's name : from him every command was to emanate, and he was to be regarded as the future King. Aureng-Zebe acted only as his lieutenant, as his zealous and dutiful subject ; the turmoils of government were ill suited to the disposition of his mind ; to live and die as a Fakire was his firm and inflexible resolution ! As for Dara, he was weighed down with despondency and terror. He repaired with all diligence to Agra, but did not venture into his father's presence ; for his last stern injunction, 'Remember, Dara, if thou art defeated, never return to me,' still sounded in his ear.