Storia do Mogor 145.2

145.2

Aurangzeb, who in certain matters was unwilling that the world should feel aggrieved at his acts, was very much perplexed about the way he ought to receive the fugitive king. Finally he came to the conclusion to receive him in the mosque, where, all being seated, it would be no dishonour for the king to have the King of Kashghar seated in his presence. It is the custom of Mahomedans on ending their prayers to turn the head to the right and to the left, saying twice, 'As-salam 'alaikum,' saluting as it were the angels, and giving them thanks for the support given to their prayers. For they assert that everyone [147] has two angels at his side, and thus they make the salutation twice. This was another piece of finesse on Aurangzeb's part, who made the salute to the angels serve as a polite salutation to the guest; for, turning to say the 'As-salam 'alaikum,' he became aware that the King of Kashghar was present in the mosque a little behind him. The other responded with the same words, when Aurangzeb turned entirely round to him; the King of Kashghar did the same, and thus the conversation began. In this manner the interview came off without prejudice to either of them. On finishing their talk, each retired to his own palace, nor did these two kings ever meet save in the mosque. The reason assigned was that in God's house there is neither high nor low, and thus they could pay and receive visits there without any derogation of their dignity.