Travels in the Mogul Empire (Bernier) 3.10.6

3.10.6

The Emir, having improved the fortifications of Azo, left a strong garrison in that fortress, intending to renew, early in the following year, the invasion of Acham; but how far is it possible for the body, worn out by old age, to withstand the effects of fatigue? He, as well as others under his command, was not made of brass, and this illustrious man fell a victim to the dysentery which attacked the army soon after their arrival in Bengale. His death produced, as might be expected, a great sensation throughout the Indies. 'It is now,' observed many intelligent persons, 'that Aureng-Zebe is king of Bengale.' Though not insensible of his obligations of gratitude, the Mogol was perhaps not sorry to have lost a vicegerent whose power and mental resources had excited so much pain and uneasiness. 'You mourn,' he publicly said to Mahmet Emir-kan, 'you mourn the death of an affectionate parent, and I the loss of the most powerful and most dangerous of my friends.' He behaved, however, with the utmost kindness and liberality to Mahmet; assured the young man that in himself he should always find a second father; and instead of diminishing his pay, or seizing upon Jemla's treasures, Aureng-Zebe confirmed Mahmet in his office of Bakchis, increased his allowance by one thousand roupies per month, and constituted him sole heir to his father's property.