Storia do Mogor 354.2.2

354.2.2

I had already been known in the empire for many years when I reached the court after the heavy loss of money in Portuguese territory of which I have already spoken (II. 178). I was then much in need of money for my support. As soon as my arrival was heard of, I was at once invited by the prince and several of his princesses to accept service with him. The message was conveyed to me through a eunuch of some standing named Meccaian (? Miskln). To this proposal I replied that I would be really glad to accept the honour done to me by his Highness, but I must decline to accept his service unless the physician, Muhammad Muqlm, conducted the negotiations with me. Thereupon it was at once ordered that he should present me to the prince, as is the custom. At this time Shāh 'Alam was making his preparations for starting to take charge of the Dakhin. The physician, Muhammad Muqlm, remembering what the European blood-letter had done to him, feared the same conduct from me also. He farther reflected that I had cured several persons of quality whom he had given up as beyond hope, whence he was afraid he might lose his reputation and be ejected from the service. Thus, in spite of his promises, he took no steps to push my interests.