Travels in the Mogul Empire (Bernier) 2.14.3

2.14.3

He, therefore, scarcely followed Sultan Sujah in his retreat, but directed his rapid steps to the capital with the whole of his army. He soon learnt, however, that the troops whom he had just encountered, and who suffered little or no diminution of numbers in the late action, were daily receiving considerable accession of strength from the different Rajas whose territories were situated on both sides of the Ganges, and who were induced to give their assistance on the strength of the reputation Sultan Sujah had for wealth and liberality. He found also that his brother was establishing himself in Elabas, that important and celebrated passage of the Ganges, and justly considered the key of Bengale. Under these circumstances, it occurred to Aureng-Zebe that he had two persons near him very capable of rendering him assistance — his eldest son, and Emir-Jemla; but he knew that those who have rendered essential service to their Prince often become inflated with the idea that no recompence is too great for them. He already perceived that Sultan Mahmoud betrayed impatience of paternal control, and was continually presuming on the skill and prowess he had displayed in the capture of the citadel of Agra, whereby all the plans of Chah-Jehan had been baffled. In regard to the Emir, the Prince fully appreciated his transcendent talents, his conduct, and his courage;