The Cambridge History of India, Vol. IV: The Mughul Period v4.c17.4

v4.c17.4

Following ancient custom he issued a liberal proclamation of policy defined in twelve rules, which was forgotten almost as soon as it was written.² Prisoners were released, and for the moment some of his old enemies were conciliated. Feelings of gratitude which were innate in his character led to the appointment to high office of several mediocrities who had aided or favoured his revolt, and of descendants of Shaikh Salīm Chishtī whom he regarded as his spiritual guide. While such acts were regarded as not unusual, resentment was felt at the promotion of Rājā Bīr Singh Bundelā, the murderer of Abu-'l-Fazl, which showed itself in a rising led by the raja's brother. In two cases a wiser choice was exercised. Ghiyās Beg, a Persian, who had served Akbar well, was appointed revenue minister with the title of I'timād-ud-daula, and Zamāna Beg, a capable soldier, was ennobled as Mahābat Khān; both of these men were to exercise great influence in the reign, though not without the vicissitudes to which service of a Mughul emperor was liable.