A History of the Mahrattas v1.c16.3

v1.c16.3

Although Sivajee’s daring robberies and incursions excited the utmost indignation, he was still contemptible as a power in the eyes of Aurungzebe; and whilst so considered, his ravages, directed against Beejapoor or Golcondah, were favourable to the Emperor’s plan. In this view, we may in some measure account for the conduct of Khan Jehan, who for a long time enjoyed as much of Aurungzebe’s confidence as any of his officers, although it must have been well known to the Emperor that Sivajee frequently purchased his connivance or forbearance; for the fact was notorious in the European settlements.