[Pramāṇa](https://indike.org/pramana/) › [Indian literature](https://indike.org/pramana/in) › [Dark Ages](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages) › [Travellers (1500–1858)](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel) › [Storia do Mogor](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci) › [Storia do Mogor (Irvine)](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine) › 292 # Storia do Mogor 292: XXXV. Rajah Shiva Ji, Mahrattah. Storia do Mogor (Irvine) 292 - **Language:** English ## Contents - [292.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.1) — 8 parts - [292.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.2) — 8 parts - [292.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.3) — 8 parts - [292.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.4) — 7 parts - [292.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.5) — 8 parts ### XXXV. Rajah Shiva Ji, Mahrattah. ### [292.1.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.1.1) having heard what was passing, made use of the occasion to send him a present and congratulate him on his auspicious arrival. With this object they prayed me to render this service to their Company, and they associated with me in the task a Brahman clerk long in the service of the Company, whose name was Ramapa. At that time he was not in their service. I started and carried with me a fine present, consisting of two cannon, several lengths of broad-cloth in scarlet and other colours, other pieces of gold cloth of Europe and China, and several rareties such as mirrors of all sizes, different kinds of crystal vases, and some weapons such as fusils, pistols, and sabres; also different kinds of wine; added to all of which was a sum of five thousand rupees. As soon as Da,ud Khan heard that I was coming, he desired to honour me so far as to send a captain with thirty horsemen and fifty musketeers to receive me at a distance of five leagues from his camp. On the following day I gave myself the honour of going to visit him, when he displayed much tenderness and friendliness. Next I conveyed to him compliments on behalf of our governor; but he let me understand that he felt much resentment, and complained that they had not already paid him a visit. They had not taken the same trouble as the Portuguese to pay him the usual compliments. ### [292.1.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.1.2) My answer was \[89\] that when other governors had come to occupy the position he held, it was the custom to visit them at this very place where he now was. I could not run the risk of going any farther, on account of the great forests there were, filled with robbers, where I might possibly receive some injury and lose much of what I was bringing. The Portuguese could run a greater risk, for they brought nothing with them, and came only to demand favours. He seemed satisfied with these reasons and others that I gave him on the subject, and after much discourse on divers matters, I laid before him a letter, and said to him that I had a present to offer on behalf of the governor and of the company; and I prayed most humbly that he would deign to accept it. His reply was that I need then only retire for repose to a tent which he had had erected for me close to his mansion. He would send word to me of the hour at which I could appear, as is the custom among the Mahomedans. Thereupon I took my leave of the general and retired to the tent, and it was impossible for me to get away from it to pay my respects to the first minister, Mahamad Sayd (Muhammad Sa'id, the diwan), and all the other officers. For I expected from one moment to another to be called, nor did I wish to allow any opening for the complaint that I was not found in my lodgings. ### [292.1.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.1.3) With this thought in my mind I wanted to send the above-mentioned Brahman to visit the chief minister, but he objected that it was late, and he wanted to bathe his body according to their custom, which is to bathe every day. Although he deceived me, I believed him all the same. However, not to neglect entirely my duty, according to the customs of the court, I sent a very honest youth, that I had brought with me from Madras, to make my compliments to the chief minister and intimate to him my arrival in the army. I sent him word that as it was late I was unable to acquit myself of what was due from me to him, but that in the morning I would do so without fail. ### [292.1.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.1.4) About half-past seven o'clock at night, Da,ud Khan sent me word that I might bring the present before him. This I did to a great extent, only keeping back in my custody the money and some of the trifling things. The reason for my so acting was that I could not then give him the money secretly, by reason of his being accompanied by many officers and other persons of consideration. Moreover, they look on it as a distinction and an honour to receive presents in public, but as regards money they never take it but in secret. I was thus obliged to beg him in a low voice to give me instructions to whom it should be delivered. He replied in the same way that I must keep it, that afterwards he would dispose of it as he judged most fitting. The Brahman, Ramapa, did not fail to notice the good reception given me, and all the honours showered on me, as also the friendliness displayed more and more by Da,ud Khan. Besides, the Nawab had fed me splendidly that evening, and had directed his major-domo to supply my table all the time I was with him just as if it were his own. For these reasons he (Ramapa), like a fool, proceeded to imagine that this would suffice, that the present had done all that was required, and thus it was of no use to give him (Da,ud Khan) anything more. It was advisable, Ramapa thought, to keep the money; and on this he imparted to me his idea. ### [292.1.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.1.5) He suggested that we should all the same enter it without fail in our account, and tell the governor that we had paid it over. To speak the truth, I was surprised at such a proposal, and to start with fell into such a violent rage with this Brahman that, in opposition to my nature, I spoke several sharp and harsh words to him, and went so far as to style him a thief and a traitor. For he knew very well that with the Mahomedans no present was better or more esteemed than money. The following day Da,ud Khan sent one of his servants to spy out the land, and discover from the Brahman how much money he had with him, and bring back a faithful report. He (Ramapa) quite forgot that the day before he had reported to another servant of this same Da,ud Khan that, in addition to the presents, we had brought some money, and this he had let out without first speaking to me. He told the second messenger that we had brought no money at all. At this information the general was so irritated that he sent back the present he had already accepted, and displayed extraordinary indignation against the Company. Yet with regard to me, he showed me still the same esteem, and did me always the same honour as before, in my quality of his sincere friend. As for the Brahman, he declined to see him again, and ordered the door of the house to be shut against him. ### [292.1.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.1.6) However, as soon as I saw the present come back, I went off to see Da,ud Khan, to whom in the sweetest and most flattering language I pointed out the injury that might be inflicted on me. I prayed him most humbly, even if he had no concern for the Company, at least to call to mind our ancient friendship. I was rather esteemed and liked by the English and the gentlemen of the Company. As they had heard of the friendship and respect that he (Da,ud Khan) had for me, that fact had induced them to send me to him to carry through their business with him. Furthermore, they knew my honesty and loyalty. His reply was that, as for me, he would do anything I wanted, but that the English, settled within the country of the king, his master, possessed a strong place most useful and highly suitable for all sorts of merchandise and traffic. They had always been left undisturbed, and yet, without regard to the past, they now treated him in the most cavalier spirit, and gave him next to nothing. They failed to reflect that they had enriched themselves in his country to a most extraordinary degree. He believed they must have forgotten that he was general over the province of the Karnatik, and that since the fall of the Gulkandah kingdom they had rendered no account of their administration, good or bad, commencing with 1686. Nor had they accounted for the revenues from tobacco, betel, wine, et cetera, which reached a considerable sum every year. ### [292.1.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.1.7) In his capacity of governor-general of the province he was forced to work for the progress and benefit of the king's interests. The English were very much mistaken if they thought by two thousand four hundred patacas \[Rs. 4,800\] to discharge the whole of their debt, and enjoy \[91\] freely all the revenues appertaining to the crown of his prince. All this he said with the greatest imaginable fury and passion, which were increased by his hatred of the English for having killed his brother-in-law, who was slain in the fight at Cuddalore, as I have stated (IV. 85), while serving in the army of Sulaiman Khan, the general's brother. After his rage had cooled a little, he made me sit down beside him, and caused Ramapa to be sent for. To him he said in harsh words that he did not mean to accept the present; he might carry it back to his governor; for his part he did not accept presents of that sort. He would come himself with all promptitude possible to take what he anticipated would suit him better. As regards Manouchy, he would not allow of his return to Madras; he meant to retain him for himself, and still more so because he happened to want him for the treatment of some ailments. At these words the Brahman withdrew and repaired to the tent and waited for me, so that we might concert what ought to be done at this conjuncture. But at the same moment the general called a captain known to me, named Mirmoin (? ### [292.1.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.1.8) Mir Mu'in), an Uzbak by race, and ordered him to take two hundred horse and two thousand infantry, and proceed to Madras with all the haste he could. He was to invest that place, and prevent anything going into or coming out of it. He meant to follow in person very shortly. But the coming on of night hindered the execution of these orders with all the haste that he desired, for they are very slow in making a start. Thus after supper I had the time to hold a conversation with Da,ud Khan at great length; and still more easy was it to do so that he was in high spirits, having drunk copiously of the European wines that I had brought for him. I began this talk by remarking to him that if he was so kind as to hold me in such great esteem, I must humbly supplicate him not to send either the captain or the soldiers. The matter was of the utmost importance for my reputation, which I placed entirely in his hands. If these soldiers proceeded to Madras, all the European nations, as well as the English, would attribute the fault to me; I should pass among them for a man void of either faith or fealty in any business confided to me. ### [292.2.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.2.1) I also prayed him to hinder the Brahman's departure, telling him the reasons I had for this course. In no shape or form was it advisable for him to leave except in my company; to do otherwise would be to put the fat in the fire. As concerned the revenues, I pointed out to him that at the time when the English came and occupied Madras it was nothing but one vast plain full of sand, uninhabited, and without any name or fame in India. On the other hand, it should be remembered that it was now highly populous, full of active merchants and other residents. It was the money of the English and their good government that had created all that prosperity, coupled with the justice they administered to everybody without fear or favour. If he intended to act with so much harshness and injustice, all the nations of Europe would abandon India. He must recollect the income and benefits which Aurangzeb had acquired; for from what entered and left Madras alone he collected more than one hundred thousand patacas. ### [292.2.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.2.2) In addition, there were many merchants, weavers, cloth-printers, and others, for all of whom the English provided a livelihood. Many subjects of the king of this realm and others knew very well that every year there were earned in Madras five lakhs of gold pagodas (equal to about one million of patacas, more or less) and over ten lakhs of silver rupees (which amounts to five hundred thousand patacas). The whole of this money remained in the country, and in exchange for all this the English carried off to Europe no more than some cotton cloth. Let him reflect, that if he objected to the residence of the English at Madras, and if he bothered his head about their gaining such considerable sums, it was requisite for Aurangzeb and his subjects to give them the time to withdraw to Europe. They (the English) set little store by the place; yet if they were forced to abandon it, they would also give up the other towns and factories they held in the Indies. In that case they would cease to be friends and become enemies. Upon their departure they would without fail seize every ship they came across, and thereby spread ruin and desolation throughout the Mogul empire. ### [292.2.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.2.3) I pointed out to him these things, not solely in respect of the English, but also as generally applicable to the other nations of Europe who were to be found in that empire. Da,ud Khan was favourably impressed by all these arguments, and gave me reasonable and satisfactory answers. In brief, he issued orders to stop the departure of the troops and the Brahman. The next day I paid a visit to the chief minister and to all my other friends, and to them I related what had happened to me, although they knew it already. However, they felt my troubles acutely, and generously endeavoured to protect me. In this way, after a few days, I was given my dismissal, carrying a confirmation of all the farmans and favours accorded to the English, just in the manner that they desired. Da,ud Khan now took the present again; and as he knew that I had the money, it being only the Brahman who denied the fact, because he wished to embezzle it like the thief and the traitor he was, he (Da,ud Khan) accepted the present favourably and thought highly of it. He told me to retain the money until he sent someone to me to receive it. Upon this I took my leave of him. ### [292.2.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.2.4) Next day I sent on the present that I had for the chief minister, who took it with much politeness and many thanks. This lord is one of the most polished men to be found among the Mahomedans. He invited me to his table and entertained me magnificently, one of the greatest honours that these people can confer. However, the Brahman was jealous beyond measure of all the honours received by me from Da,ud Khan, from the chief minister, and all the other officers of the army, a feeling intensified by seeing himself despised and hated. ### [292.2.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.2.5) For this reason he designed covertly to make me lose the esteem and reputation that I had among the Mahomedans, and the property I held within the English jurisdiction. To this intent he tried to make use of the spies who were on the spot, men of his tribe, and wished to force them into writing to the Governor of Madras and his council that I was the sole cause of failure and the producer of all the disputes between the Mahomedans and the English. But the most intimate friends of the man knew that all he said was false, and all his inventions diabolic. They refused, but instead gave me warning of what was going on. They advised me not to put much trust in Ramapa. He, on the other hand, became more and more eager for my ruin and destruction, and had recourse to other methods. In pursuance of this idea, he sought the advice of another Brahman he knew, and then returned to our quarters. I asked him where he had been, and he told me he had come from the general's. The latter had given him an order to place the money in the hands of the servant of a Brahman called Longcarne (? Langkaran). Directly this servant came to us, we must obey the order forthwith and without objection. He added to this several words to persuade me that such was Da,ud Khan's wish. ### [292.2.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.2.6) When he had finished these words he went off on other business, and instantly those servants appeared and claimed the money. They told me they came on behalf of Da,ud Khan. There were several of them, and as soon as one had entered another put in an appearance. They solicited and importuned me to such an extent about this money, for which they said Da,ud Khan was waiting, that I remembered what the other Brahmans had said about not trusting Ramapa. Then I recollected that Da,ud Khan had said he would inform me of the name of the person to whom he desired that I should count out this money. For these reasons, then, I would not deliver it to these servants; but to escape from their importunity, I said that they had only to wait a little while I went to fetch the money. However, instead of doing so, I made all the haste I could to get out and find Da,ud Khan. I discovered him in the midst of many officers conducting a review of his cavalry. In spite of this I went close to him, and twice over whispered into his ear, asking him to be gracious enough to send someone to receive the money. ### [292.2.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.2.7) To these words he replied by telling me to wait a little. When he had finished his inspection, I renewed my prayer that he would be good enough to relieve me of that burden, since he knew very well that I could not guard it securely. At last, to satisfy me, he sent for his treasurer, and after having had a good look, first one way and then the other, to see that no one was watching, he said to him privately, and to me also, that he must go to receive that money. I returned to my quarters highly pleased, and there I found no trace of the lackeys I spoke of above, nor have I ever seen them since. In a little time the treasurer arrived, and I delivered the money to him in the presence of several of my friends and some servants of the company. He, too, was very joyful at receiving it, for there is no greater pleasure to these men than when they behold the store of their master on the increase. Some little time afterwards the Brahman Ramapa returned, and although he knew all that had happened, he made no sign; on the contrary, he asserted he knew nothing whatever. But I told him I had paid over the money to the general's treasurer, and not to the men of the Brahman, Langkaran. ### [292.2.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.2.8) Upon this, in the humblest tone and his eyes swimming with tears, he began to make excuse, just as is their habit. For it may be truly said that these people are very much like crocodiles (cocordilles), whose skin changes at their will and pleasure. These difficulties occasioned me much trouble, and were all due to the Brahman; so great were they that I was not far from losing my life. The whole affair caused me the more vexation because this Brahman had many friends at Madras, and many relations among the merchants who were influential with the governor, et cetera. In spite of this, by Heaven's help I was delivered entirely, upholding my own honour and that of the company. Upon quitting the army I had the delight of hearing, mingled with other compliments, that all which had been gained was on account of me; I found myself also regaled by a very rich sarapa (set of robes), which I showed to the Brahman, who also received one for himself. ### [292.3.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.3.1) About fifteen days afterwards I returned to Madras, and rendered an account to the governor of all that I had done in regard to the interests of the company and to the matters he had committed to me. This generous man, having obtained full confirmation of my story, was very satisfied, and gave me many marks of his gratitude. I did not tell him all that the Brahman had done to me, for he had besought me with tears in his eyes not to say anything. His tears compelled me to have compassion, and instead of telling, I made over to him two lengths of cloth, thereby rewarding his ingratitude and infamous conduct by a largesse. I let him see that a generous and Christian heart (be it said without boasting) never resents the wrongs or injustice done to it. ### [292.3.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.3.2) Here I must mention that while I was at the army there arrived from Pondicherry an envoy on behalf of Governor Martin. He came to negotiate about some business which concerned the Royal Company. The party brought some letters of recommendation on the subject addressed to me. But as I was just on the point of leaving, I declined to wait until all those difficulties were overcome ; for it was of importance both to me and to the Noble Company of England that I should return with all possible speed to Madras. However, before I started I recommended the affairs of the Royal Company both to Da,ud Khan and to the chief minister, as well as to the other officials. All of them promised to be of use to me, and cause me to have satisfaction about those demands. As a matter of fact, I have reason to be satisfied with them ; for Monsieur Martin afterwards wrote me letters of thanks and gratitude, notifying that my recommendations had been of great use to them, and enabled them to settle their business to their satisfaction and at a moderate cost. This assertion I believe all the more readily, since the Mahomedans act with the French in quite a different manner to that adopted with all other nations. ### [292.3.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.3.3) \[95\] Four months afterwards \[1701\] Da,ud Khan was passing from Arkat to Tanjor to receive the tribute paid by that king to the Mogul, as also the payments of other tributary kings. It is true that the envoy of that king and those of the other rulers, who are always present with Da,ud Khan, wished to pay the tribute at Arkat itself. Their object was to spare him the exertion of going so far ; but he would not accept this excuse. He knew quite well what his travels might bring him in from these foreign states ; for if he had received Aurangzeb's tribute at Arkat, there would have been no share for himself. The presents would come to more than the dues, whether he caused them to be given by threats or otherwise. He started, then, for Tanjor, collected the tribute there, and obtained presents which satisfied him. On his way back he passed by Cuddalore, where the governor, Mr. Frazer, sent out men to salute him, and presented him with an elephant, some pieces of scarlet cloth and other fine cloths of Europe and China, together with a sum of money and some European wines. All this was by way of compliment, for he (Frazer) feared this general, who was continually threatening him on account of the death of his brother-in-law. Neither he nor his sister could forget, and she cherished in her mind the belief that Cuddalore and the English were the cause of her husband's death. ### [292.3.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.3.4) However, all passed peaceably, for these people, through money and presents, can easily be made to forget the death of a relation, or any other thing. From that point the general (Da,ud Khan) moved close to Pondicherry, whence the governor sent out to salute him, and forwarded him a small present. Next he came to Sadraspatam, where the Dutch did the same. These people (Mahomedans) have no hesitation in undertaking long journeys, provided that it suits their interests, as it always does happen to do on these occasions. Lastly, he reached San Thome with all his army. At this spot the Governor of Madras sent out to salute him Mr. Ellis, the second-in-council, accompanied by two other officials. They carried with them a present similar to the one I had given him when I applied for confirmation of the farmans to the company. Their orders were also to pay many compliments to the chief minister. Of all these duties the Englishmen acquitted themselves. ### [292.3.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.3.5) By chance I happened to be present when these gentlemen arrived at the camp, because I had gone there also to pay my respects to the general and the chief minister. The visitors were badly enough received; for Da,ud Khan declined to receive this 'ordinary present,' as he styled it. He told them plainly that these articles were not such as could be presented to a man of his rank. He felt astonished that the governor should send him presents of such small importance; he should remember that he was the first man in the province, and lieutenant-general for the Great Mogul. He also said to them that he was greatly amazed at the governor's sending a Brahman to Arkat in the company of Dr. Manouchy to take part in a discussion of their business. The matter \[96\] was fully important enough to demand quite another stamp of man than this Brahman, a nobody and of no standing. His amazement was all the greater, since the man had tried to do harm to Dr. Manouchy, who had been brought up in the courts of Asia, more especially in that of the Great Mogul. He added some further words in my praise and to my honour, such as it is not meet for me to repeat. ### [292.3.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.3.6) In the end the Englishmen were given leave to depart, and they received some very fine cloth of gold and silver, of which he made them a present. He added many soft and sugared words, for he declared to them that he was a firm friend of their nation; they ought to repose entire confidence in him, for he would at all times be ready to do them a service in all matters. But along with these speeches he did not omit to tell them that presents sent to a minister of his standing ought to be large and proportionate to his rank and authority. Those gentlemen wished to make excuses, but he declined to listen. Whatever efforts they made to persuade him that they were treating him exactly like all the other nawabs, his predecessors, and above all, Zu,lfiqar Khan, who is generalissimo at the court of the Mogul, he remained deaf to all their arguments. The English were much put out by this treatment, which was founded on nothing but cupidity. Therefore, foreseeing the inconveniences likely to be produced by his displeasure, they decided to employ some friends to plead their cause. They applied to the chief minister and others, who adjusted the quarrel. The conditions were that the same presents should be sent again, adding five thousand rupees and some very rare European curiosities. After this they became friends. ### [292.3.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.3.7) Da,ud Khan subsequently \[July 11\] sent a message to the governor that he was desirous of visiting him, as he (Pitt) could not come to San Thome. The governor requested me to go to that place (San Thome) to receive him (Da,ud Khan) \[July 12\], and escort him to this fortress (Fort St. George). This I did. We left San Thome with fifty horsemen, as previously agreed on. On our way we met the councillors from Madras, accompanied by a part of the garrison. After reciprocal compliments between the two parties, we resumed our journey. ### [292.3.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.3.8) Upon reaching the gate of the town, we perceived all the soldiers — European and Indian — under arms, and drawn up in single rank on both sides from that spot up to the fort gate, while a number of armed men were on the town wall and the fort wall. These were arranged in excellent order, much to the astonishment of Da,ud Khan, who could not repress signs of admiration. Still greater was his amazement when, as they drew near the fort gateway, the soldiers and their officers, on catching sight of the governor, drew themselves up in line and went through divers movements which were quite unknown to him. They were only done in his honour and that of the governor. But being unaccustomed to all this military ceremonial, he was thrown into a state of confusion and apprehension. He believed himself to be already a prisoner. For this reason he spoke to me in a loud voice, requesting that all these men might be withdrawn. I reassured him, saying that it was nothing but the usual ceremonial and method among these troops; he should not be in the least afraid, or suspect anything. At the same time, I took care to cry out to the soldiers that they must retire. ### [292.4.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.4.1) While I was speaking the governor arrived, accompanied by a large number of officials and servants. I told him (Pitt) he must embrace Da,ud Khan, who by this time had dismounted with all his retinue. This embrace was given, and then the chief minister and the bakhshi were received in the same fashion. Then we entered the fort, where the governor paid him innumerable tokens of respect and friendship, and conducted him to his rooms. These were magnificently furnished. The bed in his room was covered with a quilt of \[blank\]. He admired it in a way to show that he had never seen one like it before, and he begged me to ask the governor if he could give him a pattern of that coverlet, and this I did in a low voice. The latter (Pitt), readier even to give than the other to ask, made him a present of two others. He even offered to give him the whole bed. Da,ud Khan would not accept this, contenting himself with the two bed-covers, these being of a wonderful, extraordinary, and strange workmanship. Upon entering the room, the governor presented to him a ball of ambergris mounted in gold, with a rich chain of the same metal. After this was done they sat down, and the conversation turned on various subjects with offers of service. When the talk was finished, the governor sent for wine, and drank to the health of King Aurangzeb to a salute of thirty-one guns. Da,ud Khan responded to this politeness by drinking the health of the King of England, to the sound of as many cannon as before. ### [292.4.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.4.2) Then they drank the health of the chief minister (wazir), Asad Khan, who is nowadays Mirolo Morao (Amir-ul-umara)—that is, 'Noble of Nobles.' This title was borne by Aurangzeb's uncle and father-in-law \[i.e., Shaistah Khan, died 1695\]. A salute of twenty-one guns was fired. This was followed by a toast to Zu,lfiqar Khan, and one to Da,ud Khan himself, each with the same number of cannon. To end with, they drank to the Diwan, the chief minister of this general, and to his bakhshi, each time to the sound of fifteen cannon. He was astonished at the rapidity and dexterity with which everything was carried out, and was highly gratified by it all. While these ceremonies were taking place, they made him a present of several cases of liqueurs, spirits, and wines of Europe of different sorts. All these he greatly prized. Next he was led into a large hall adorned with all kinds of arms. There he found a magnificent dinner prepared in European and in Indian fashion. He admired the variety of the arms, for which, however, he had no envy, unless for the spears. Having asked the governor for one, two were given to him. ### [292.4.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.4.3) He then went to seek repose for an hour, and after that took his leave. The governor accompanied him as far as the fort gateway, the general protesting against his coming any farther. There they reiterated their compliments and polite speeches, and Mr. Pitt wished him a pleasant journey. On his side the general put forward many offers of service, and assured him of a perpetual peace, wishing him every success in his enterprises and trading: and said he would ever remain his friend and protector so long as he ruled the province. The governor did not withdraw until Da,ud Khan had mounted his horse — nay, wanted to hold the stirrup for him, but this Da,ud Khan would not allow. But to me he said in a low voice that he would like to be saluted with some salvoes of artillery as he was leaving the town. This desire was carried out, the musketeers also accompanying him to the boundary of San Thome. I went with him half-way there, when he said that as it was already late I might go back to Madras. All this he said with many compliments and a thousand expressions of civility, ending by saying that he hoped to pass still two or three days in my house at the Big Mount, and rest himself there. I consented with the greatest pleasure, as may be imagined. I went there to see him before he started for Arkat, when he gave me a valuable set of robes, and repeated his offer of serving me just as he was used to do on previous occasions. ### [292.4.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.4.4) The above is the mode in which things happened, and an arrangement was arrived at; the Mahomedans making profuse protestations to the English of service and friendship. We shall see next how these perfidious men acquitted themselves of such promises. At the end of December, 1701, I was at Pondicherry on business connected with the Tanjor persecutions, of which I have spoken already (IV. 43-81). At the end of January in the next year \[1702\] I had trustworthy information that Da,ud Khan and the diwan with their whole army were about to leave Arkat again for Madras. This fact I learnt from different sources through various friends and officials known to me, some of whom sent a warning to me that during this march some harm was intended to Madras. He had received peremptory orders from the court to deal rigorously with the English. This news forced me to forsake the pleasant company of the French, in order to return with all possible haste to Madras. I arrived there on February 2 of the same year \[1702\]. On my taking leave of them the governor, Francois Martin, and the other officials of the Royal Company, strongly enjoined me to let them know what happened between the English and the Mahomedans, sending off immediately express messengers (pions). This requisition I executed without fail. ### [292.4.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.4.5) A few days afterwards I warned Governor Pitt of Da,ud Khan's approach. In fact, he arrived at San Thome two days afterwards. On my advice they sent to him a Mahomedan servant of and trader under the Company, named Coja Ammad (Khwajah Ahmad), as also another merchant of the town named Narapa. But the second man fell ill, and only the first-named went ; I went also. There I found the general, the diwan, the bakhshi, and all the officers assembled. They received me most cordially, showing many signs of joy and embracing me. They sent without delay \[99\] for Khwajah Ahmad, who appeared at once. They directed him to inform the governor of Madras that they desired his presence at San Thome. They had important matters to communicate to him. If he could not come himself, would he send the second and third in council \[February 4 or 15\]. Then Da,ud Khan and the diwan turned towards me, and said I must confirm to those gentlemen (the English) whatever Khwajah Ahmad had been ordered to report to them. Then, taking me aside privately, they told me to be sure and tell the said governor to come himself without fail, or send the two others of his council. They said we must both of us return to San Thome, showing thereby that they had no confidence in Khwajah Ahmad, and had no belief in his truthfulness. ### [292.4.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.4.6) When we arrived at Madras we went together to see the governor, and told him what the Mahomedans had charged us to say to him. To this he replied that he neither meant to go himself nor send any of his council. He declined to do so on several grounds, principally because neither the second nor the third, nor anyone else, could speak 'Maure' \[the language spoken by Mahomedans\]. But he urged me earnestly to return to the general \[Da,ud Khan\] along with Khwajah Ahmad, and explain the reasons which hindered him from complying with his request. If he had any negotiations to make with him and his council, he could conduct them safely through Khwajah Ahmad as their qualified procurator. The real reason why the governor declined to send anyone is that he feared the Mahomedans might oblige them by force to execute some writing, by which they undertook to be responsible for all piracies throughout the seas and on all the coasts of India. This is what they (the Mahomedans) had done at Surat to the other directors of the companies of France, Holland, and England. Or he feared they might be seized and constrained to pay considerable sums to recover their liberty. This was a customary enough act among the Mahomedans, and yet it would greatly injure their Company. ### [292.4.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.4.7) However, Khwajah Ahmad and I returned to San Thome. I repeated to Da,ud Khan and the diwan all that the governor had said to me. As I was about to leave I perceived that things were approaching a rupture, whereupon I humbly besought them not to employ me in such thorny affairs. The intention of the two Mahomedans was to make use of me as mediator between the two parties. They had great faith in me because I spoke the language fairly well, and they imagined that without harming much the one or the other, I should deal with things to their advantage, and that in some degree I should adopt their side rather than the other. ### [292.5.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.5.1) Thus they laid before my eyes the great danger the English stood in of losing Madras. In so doing they somehow forgot that I, too, had been suckled in Europe as much as the English; that for the honour of my country and of all the other European nations, I was under greater obligation to them \[the English\] than I could possibly be to the Mahomedans. Under these circumstances I parted from them as civilly as I could, and on sufficiently good terms, in order to be able to advise the governor of what I thought best for his reputation and the defence of the town. Khwajah Ahmad remained behind at San Thome as agent, although to all appearance the Mahomedans \[100\] had little confidence in him. They said loudly that they must have Englishmen of the Council with whom to treat. To this demand they joined a good deal of invective, launched at that nation. Furthermore, they asserted they had a letter from Aurangzeb, which could be communicated to no one but those gentlemen \[the English council\]. The affairs referred to in it were of such importance that it was absolutely imperative for them and the English to confer on them. They added that the agent sent to them was a low and contemptible man — a personage, in one word, quite unsuited for the business in hand. ### [292.5.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.5.2) Khwajah Ahmad conveyed to the governor all that had been done and said, together with the menaces and ridiculous pretensions of Da,ud Khan. But the latter \[Mr. Pitt\], without putting himself otherwise to any particular trouble, began all the same his preparations to receive him, should he take it into his head to pay him a visit. With dauntless courage he went in person to inspect the fortifications of the town, caused the gates to be strengthened, and doubled the sentries. Every night he saw that the rounds were constantly on the move, and kept the sentries on the alert. When this was reported to the general \[Da,ud Khan\], he grew still more angry with the governor. His resolve was that in every particular the English must submit to him, or he would besiege their town. Thus that very night it chanced that some thirty loads of fine cloth passed close to San Thome. The goods had been dispatched by the merchants of the company. He caused these to be stopped \[February 6 or 17\]; and although the total value did not exceed six thousand patacas \[Rs. 12,000\], the loss was felt all the same. The next day he sent some horsemen with some men on foot, who took possession of three villages dependent on this town. Next he stopped the entry of all articles into the suburbs, and prevented the receipt of all supplies. ### [292.5.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.5.3) Pushed to an extremity, the English sent to ask under what orders he had resorted to these severities, by what authority he had occupied those villages, confiscated the cloth belonging to the Company, and was proceeding daily to further seizures. They asked also why he had made prisoners of the native merchants of the Company residing up-country, why he had seized the money and goods appertaining to the said Company. To the whole of this the general replied that he had a letter from the king ordering him to stop the trade of all European nations, more especially that of the English. He was directed to restrict their movements and treat them somewhat rigorously. Now these people call 'a little rigour' what would be looked on in Europe as the severest repression. He sent the governor a copy of the letter \[February 6 or 17\]. ### [292.5.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.5.4) The reason for this order is that which I have already recorded (IV. 33)—namely, that the European pirates had in the previous year taken several Mahomedan ships belonging to Sūrat merchants, causing them very heavy loss; so much so that they had closed the doors of their warehouses and stopped their entire trade. This did great harm to Aurangzeb, who lost greatly by the stoppage of trade. The complaints and lamentations raised had come to his majesty's ears, and he had resolved to set matters right by forcing all the European nations to free the seas, and make them safe by hunting down the said pirates. He also required them to give compensation for the plundered merchandise. His majesty's will was that, after all possible efforts had been made to find out which nation the pirates belonged to, they \[? the money compensations\] should be divided among the merchants who had been robbed. However, Da,ud Khan and the diwan, having come to the conclusion that the English were quite resolved on resistance, that the town was fairly strong and very well provided with artillery, and had a garrison of eight hundred seasoned soldiers, decided to send a message asking the governor to send me to San Thome. They were ready to discuss matters with me and settle the dispute to the advantage of the Company. In spite of some time having elapsed without my having seen the one or the other of the parties, the governor lost no time in sending me. ### [292.5.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.5.5) After an exchange of the usual compliments, Da,ud Khan began his reproaches about the English, whom he designated as over-proud and defiers of his king's orders. In reply, I laid before him several arguments, which I will not set forth, to avoid wearying my readers. All I will mention is that I showed to him the great harm being done to the king's interests by the way he was acting. For these nations, worn out by such continuous ill-treatment, must inevitably in the end leave the country and close their trade. But as soon as ever they got out to sea, they would capture every merchant vessel they came across. They would make descents on the ports upon the seashore, would carry off all they could find, would give quarter neither to rich nor poor, and wherever they landed would spread fire and desolation. To all this I added that if they declined to listen to these arguments, so important in the interest of their king, I would, being his (the king's) servant, go to the court myself and prove to him the innocence of the English and the injustice being done to all Europeans. No consideration was being paid to the fact that these merchants were neither the defenders nor the protectors of these pirates, from whom they also suffered, and it was this very cause that made it impossible for any of the European nations to suppress them, or give the king the undertaking that he demanded. ### [292.5.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.5.6) In spite of this, Da,ud Khan wrote to the French at Pondicherry, the Dutch at Negapatam, and the Danes at Tranquebar, calling on them to send men and ships to help him against the English at Madras. These people, all of them, made excuses. While this was in progress attempts were made to appease the Mahomedans by pleasant words and making them limited promises. They were not thereby deterred from continuing their investment \[of Madras\], although carrying it out less rigorously than at first. In fact, four Englishmen who had been made prisoners at San Thome by Da,ud Khan's orders, when on their way from Cuddalore, were now released and sent here (Madras), each being presented with a chaal (shawl). ### [292.5.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.5.7) I communicated to Monsieur Martin, governor of Pondicherry, all that happened between the Mahomedans and the English. I told him it would be a good thing to send some men to Da,ud Khan and the diwan, so as to turn their minds from doing at Pondicherry what they were then doing at Madras. Thus that governor (Martin), who is extremely prudent and well versed in the Mahomedan ways of governing, decided to send one person with some presents for Da,ud Khan, the diwan, and some other officials. Consequently, on the 15th of the month of March of this year \[1702\], Monsieur Desprez, a merchant of the Royal Company, arrived at San Thome, and at once informed me of his presence, sending me a letter from the governor. In it Monsieur Martin recommended to me this gentleman, and prayed me to aid and assist him in his negotiations with Da,ud Khan \[102\] and the other officials. As soon as I heard this news I threw up all the business I had at Madras, and transferred myself in all haste to San Thome, wishing to be of use to the French to the utmost of my powers. This desire was increased by the fact that I have always esteemed, and shall continue to esteem, them by reason of their fine qualities, and the honourable attentions with which they have overwhelmed me. ### [292.5.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.5.8) After I had arrived at San Thome I had a conversation with the said Monsieur Desprez. I found him very much troubled; for never before, all his life long, had he been concerned in a similar business, and had never paid a visit to a Mahomedan of this rank. I gave him encouragement, and told him I would do all that was necessary to carry through the affairs of the Royal Company. I would accompany him on his visit to Da,ud Khan, the diwan, and the bakhshi, each one separately. This I did, and he was well received by these lords, who gave him many testimonies of the regard in which they held the French, and betrayed to him their pleasure at the French having sent to compliment them so very politely. ### [292.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292.6) Monsieur Desprez had brought a present for Da,ud Khan and one for the diwan, and never dreamt that the bakhshi would also require to be remembered. But I adjusted all that. I observed that there was enough in what he had brought to bear division into three parts. This I did. In this way they were highly contented, and he obtained his leave to depart after a very short delay. It took him only eight days to get through the business. When he said good-bye, the nawab and all the other principal officials requested him to assure his governor of their friendship. He might live unconcerned, nor need he have the slightest doubt about the respect they had for him personally; and in all that lay in their power, they would be always ready to help the French of the Royal Company. It sufficed that Monsieur Manouchy was the governor's friend to ensure their giving all the help that lay in their power, for was not he (Manucci) loved and respected by all the ministers of Aurangzeb? Da,ud Khan sent to Monsieur Martin a very fine horse, valued at one thousand rupees, along with a costly set of robes; another set was given to the said Monsieur Desprez. The diwan and bakhshi also gave him a very good set each, and sent him off in a satisfactory manner. He bore with him a complimentary letter to the governor, and the latter was highly satisfied, being hardly able to contain himself for joy at being thus delivered from such rascals. On the 22nd of the same month of March \[1702\] two Dutchmen appeared at San Thome; they had been sent by the governor of Negapatam, being accompanied by ten half-castes and thirty armed messengers (pions), and bringing a considerable present. The head of this embassy was Monsieur Vanderburg, the same who made over Pondicherry to the French on the conclusion of peace. He delivered it to Messieurs Des Augers and Martin. Da,ud Khan received these Dutchmen fairly well, and offered them many delicate attentions. Yet he went on as before with the investment of Madras, persisting in his attempt to rob the English of much money. On the other hand, the governor, still more obstinate than he, refused absolutely to give him anything. He was the more of this view that the investment was not carried out rigorously. However, the English had great suspicions that those four wretched Portuguese traders at San Thome might do them harm with the Mahomedans, and might envenom their minds and stimulate their acts by evil reports. All this was quite unfounded; for the inhabitants of San Thome are under a thousand obligations to the English of Madras, who have always protected them, and frequently furnished them with the means of support. Their suspicions were increased because the Lord Bishop of the place, called Dom Gaspar Alfonso, a member of the Society of Jesus, was the intimate friend of Da,ud Khan and of the dlwan. The English were afraid he might speak evil of them. Furthermore, he had forwarded a protest to the governor of Madras under cover of a letter, doing this without any sort of grounds or reason. --- Source: [https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292](https://indike.org/pramana/in.darkages.travel.manucci~en-irvine.292) · Pramāṇa