Storia do Mogor 65.27.4

65.27.4

Shahjahan did not lose his wits, but replied that his grandson could come freely and in all security into the palace. He longed to embrace him, and into his hands he would deliver the keys, not only of the fortress but of all the empire, making over the crown to him. But Sultan Muhammad persisted in his resolve, and replied that those words were mere vanity ; it was no longer the time to talk thus. Let him send the keys, unless he wanted to be reduced to a worse state. Finding him thus resolute, Shahjahan made up his mind to send the keys. For he observed the great activity of Sultan Muhammad and the people under him. They allowed no food-supplies to pass. The people inside suffered hunger and thirst, and little by little they were forced to abandon the post they occupied near the private apartments, which is called the 'Am chai' (? 'Am-Khas), where Shahjahan gave audience. Finding himself in this plight and without any security for his person, he sent the keys. His determination was that if the enemy advanced farther, he would elect to die by force, with the women, eunuchs, and Asad Khan. The latter declined to leave his king, and kept the door to the harem, just as if he were a humble servitor. This he did out of the great affection and loyalty that he had for Shahjahan.