Travels in the Mogul Empire (Bernier) 3.12.2

3.12.2

Chah-hestkan received these extraordinary visitors with open arms; gave them large sums of money; provided the women and children with excellent accommodation in the town of Dacca, and after he had thus gained their confidence, the pirates evinced an eagerness to act in concert with the Mogol's troops, shared in the attack and capture of Sondiva, which island had fallen into the hands of the King of Rakan, and accompanied the Indian army from Sondiva to Chatlgon. Meanwhile the two Dutch ships of war made their appearance, and Chah-hestkan having thanked the commanders for their kind intentions, informed them that he had now no need of their services. I saw these vessels in Bengale, and was in company with the officers, who considered the Indian's thanks a poor compensation for the violation of his engagements. In regard to the Portuguese, Chah-hest treats them, not perhaps as he ought, but certainly as they deserve. He has drawn them from Chatlgon; they and their families are in his power; an occasion for their services no longer exists; he considers it, therefore, quite unnecessary to fulfil a single promise. He suffers month after month to elapse without giving them any pay; declaring that they are traitors, in whom it is folly to confide; wretches who have basely betrayed the Prince whose salt they had eaten for many years.