Travels in the Mogul Empire (Bernier) 2.11.3

2.11.3

He sent a trusty eunuch to say how sensible he was not only of the improper behaviour of Dara, but also of his incapacity; to remind Aureng-Zebe of the peculiar tenderness he had ever borne him, and to request he would visit his affectionate father, that such arrangements might be concluded as the present distracted state of affairs rendered necessary. The cautious Prince likewise mistrusted Chah-Jehan; for he knew that Begum-Saheb quitted him neither night nor day; that he was completely under her control; that she had dictated the message, and that there were collected in the fortress several large and robust Tartar women, such as are employed in the seraglio, for the purpose of falling upon him with arms in their hands, as soon as he entered the fortress. Aureng-Zebe would not, therefore, venture within its walls; and though he repeatedly fixed the day for obeying his father's summons, he as often deferred it to the morrow. Meanwhile, he continued his secret machinations, and sounded the opinions of the most powerful Omrahs, until, having well digested his plans, the public all at once found to their astonishment that his son, Sultan Mahmoud, had taken possession of the fortress. This enterprising young man, having posted a number of men in the vicinity, entered the place on the plea of visiting the Mogol with a message from Aureng-Zebe, and fell suddenly on the guards stationed at the gate;