Travels in India (Tavernier) 62: Translation of the first letter which Shaista Khan wrote to the Author in reply to the above.

62

Great God —
To the beloved of fortune, support of virtue, Monsieur Tavernier, Frenchman, my dear friend, know that your letter has been delivered to me, by which I have learnt of your return to Surat, and that you have brought with you what I asked. I have carefully considered all that you have written to me, with which I am much contented ; wherefore, on receiving this, you should arrange to come to me, together with those things which you have brought ; and be assured that I will render you all possible courtesy, and all the aid and profit that it is possible for you to wish for. Moreover, I send you the passport you have asked me for, recommending you to come quickly in order that I may see the things described in your letter. The quicker you are able to come the better, wherefore write more ?
The 11th of Chotival, in the year of Muhammad 1069.
This which follows is written in Shaista Khan’s own hand—
The chosen one among my most beloved, your request has been delivered to me. God bless you and reward you for having held to your word and kept your promise. Come quickly to me, and be assured that you will receive all sorts of contentment and profit from me.
This which follows is contained round his seal—
The Prince of Princes, the servant of the King, victorious Aurangzeb.