The Cambridge History of India, Vol. IV: The Mughul Period v4.c17.55

v4.c17.55

Qandahār had been lost after a short siege at the beginning of the rebellion (June, 1622) and there was no hope or even talk of regaining it. Jahāngīr had become incapable of any mental exertion and by the end of 1624 had even discontinued writing his memoirs. Most of the elder generals were dead or in disgrace, and the only capable member of the royal family was banished. No internal disturbances threatened the crown, but the question of succession which could not long be deferred was ever present in the mind of the empress. Mahābat Khān with Parvīz the eldest prince had established some prestige by his successes against Shāh Jahān, and the first desirable object appeared to be to separate them. Parvīz was destitute of either ability or character and was easily induced to accept the government of Gujarāt, with Khān Jahān as his commander. Āsaf Khān's old enmity with Mahābat Khān prompted the appointment of the latter to the undesirable post of governor in Bengal. To embarrass him still further demands were made that he should despatch to court the elephants and treasure which he had captured during the rebellion, and as he did not at once comply an envoy was sent to recover them and to summon him to court. Of his cruelty and excesses in that country there was much evidence and complainants flocking to court had excited the emperor's compassion.