Travels in the Mogul Empire (Bernier) 2.13.7

2.13.7

Aureng-Zebe was equally surprised and perplexed when he heard that Dara was master of Amed-Abad. He knew that his pecuniary resources were still considerable, and he could entertain no doubt that not only his brother's friends, but malcontents from all parts, would flock around his standard. He was not insensible of the importance of following Dara in person and dislodging him from so advantageous a position: but at the same time he saw the danger of withdrawing so far from Agra and Chah-Jehan, and of marching his army into provinces which comprehended the territories of Jesseingue, Jessomseingue, and other powerful Rajas. His attention was also distracted by the rapid advance of Sultan Sujah — then near Elabas — with a powerful army, and by the preparations which he understood were being made by Soliman-Chekouh in conjunction with the Raja of Serenaguer to take an active part in the war. He was placed in a critical and intricate situation; but his best course, he thought, was to leave Dara for the present with Chah-Navaze-kan, and to march toward Sultan Sujah, who had already crossed the Ganges at Elabas. Sultan Sujah encamped at a small village called Kadjouë, a situation which on account of a large talab, or reservoir of water, was judiciously chosen. There he determined to await the attack of Aureng-Zebe, who, on bringing up his army, took up a position on the banks of a small river, distant about a league and a half.