Travels in the Mogul Empire (Bernier) 2.15.7

2.15.7

The action commenced between nine and ten in the morning. Daras artillery, which was advantageously placed on a small eminence, made noise enough; but the pieces, it is supposed, were charged only with blank cartridges, so widely was the treachery extended. It is unnecessary to enter into any particular detail of this battle, if battle it should be called; it was soon a complete rout. I shall simply state that the first shot was scarcely fired when Jesseingue, placing himself within sight of Dara, sent an officer to inform him that if he wished to avoid capture he must instantly quit the field. The poor Prince, seized with sudden fear and surprise, acted upon this advice, and flew with so much precipitation that he gave no directions concerning his baggage: indeed, considering the critical situation in which he was placed, he had reason to congratulate himself on being allowed time to secure his wife and family. It is certain that he was in the power of Jesseingue, and that it was to his forbearance he was indebted for his escape: but the Raja, aware of the danger that would attend any insult offered to a Prince of the blood, has upon all occasions shown respect to every branch of the Royal family.