Travels in the Mogul Empire (Bernier) 2.15.1

2.15.1

During the interval there arose a serious disagreement between Sultan Mahmoud and Emir-Jemla. The former aspired to the absolute and undivided command of the army, and behaved to the latter with studied insolence and contempt. He even allowed expressions to escape him that denoted a total disregard of the affection and respect due to his father; spoke openly of his achievement in the fortress of Agra, and boasted that it was to him Aureng-Zebe should feel indebted for his crown. He was at length informed of the anger he had excited in his father's breast ; and fearing lest the Emir should receive orders to seize his person, he withdrew attended by very few followers, and retiring towards Sultan Sujah made that Prince a tender of his services. But Sujah, suspecting this to be a device of Aureng-Zebe and of Emir-Jemla to entrap him, placed no confidence in his splendid promises, or in his oaths of undeviating constancy. He, therefore, intrusted him with no command of importance, and kept an eye upon his conduct. Sultan Mahmoud was soon disgusted with this treatment, and, after the absence of a few months, in despair of what might befall him, abandoned his new master, and ventured to appear in Jemla's presence. The Emir received him with some degree of courtesy, promising to intercede with Aureng-Zebe in his behalf, and persuade him to pardon this great transgression.