The Cambridge History of India, Vol. IV: The Mughul Period v4.c20.38

v4.c20.38

In February, 1694, Zu-’l-Fiqār Khān set out southwards along the coast, conquering many forts in the South Arcot district and threatening Tanjore, the raja of which, Shāhjī II, had to sign a treaty (1 June) promising to obey the emperor, give up Rājā Rām’s cause, and pay an annual tribute of three million rupees. Then, after storming Pālamcottah, the Mughul general returned to Wandiwāsh, and near the end of the year made a show of renewing the siege of Gingee. But he had come to a secret understanding with Rājā Rām, in expectation of the death of the old emperor and civil wars among his sons, so that nothing was achieved by the Mughuls during 1695. The arrival of Dhana and Santā early in 1695 forced Zu-’l-Fiqār to raise the siege and confine himself to the defensive in Arcot fort throughout 1696; he was hopelessly outnumbered and without money or food.