Travels in the Mogul Empire (Bernier) 2.12.7

2.12.7

During supper, the utmost good-humour and conviviality apparently prevailed; the conversation was enlivening and incessant, and at the end of the repast, a large quantity of the delicious wines of Chiraz and Caboul was introduced. Aureng-Zebe then rose softly, and with a countenance that beamed with affection and delight, said, 'I need not inform your Majesty of the serious turn of my mind, and that, as a Mahometan, I feel scruples which do not permit me to indulge in the pleasures of the table; but though I deem it my duty to retire, yet I leave you in excellent company. Mirkan and my other friends will entertain your Majesty.' An extravagant fondness for wine was among Morad-Bakche's foibles, and upon the present occasion, finding it peculiarly good, he drank to such excess that he became intoxicated, and fell into a deep sleep. This was precisely the effect which Aureng-Zebe intended the wine should produce. His servants were ordered to withdraw that their master might not be disturbed; and Mirkan took away both his sword and dagger. It was not long before Aureng-Zebe came to rouse him from his sleep. He entered the room, and pushing the Prince rudely with his feet, until he opened his eyes, uttered this short and insolent reprimand, 'Oh, shame and infamy! Thou a King and yet possessing so little discretion? What will the world now say of thee, and even of me?