A History of the Mahrattas v1.c16.6

v1.c16.6

But without further anticipation, such, in regard to the different powers, is a general view of the state of the Deccan when Sivajee undertook his expedition into the Carnatic. It was first suggested by Rugonath Narrain Hunwuntay, whom we have already mentioned, as the successor of his father, Naroo Punt, in the management of Shahjee's Jagheer in the Carnatic. Rugonath Narrain was a man of superior abilities, but after the death of his patron he disgusted Venkajee by his overbearing conduct; and on the other hand, the young man's interference in the direction of his own affairs gave the minister great offence. Their mutual interests, however, suppressed their growing hatred for a long time; but after eleven or twelve years, Rugonath Narrain left the Carnatic, and proceeded to the court of Abou Hussein at Golcondah, where he formed an acquaintance with Mahdhuna Punt and contrived to gain his confidence; but whether he took these steps, foreseeing the scheme to which he afterwards applied them, is uncertain. He came, however, to join Sivajee, by whom, as an old and distinguished servant of his father, and a brother of the Somunt Purdhan, he was received with great respect; and Ramchundur Punt, being the youngest of the ministers, Sivajee displaced him to make room for Rugonath Punt Hunwuntay, on whom he conferred the office of Amat Purdhan. The discussion of Sivajee's claim to share, according to Hindoo law, in half the possessions of Shahjee, and the possibility of making this a cloak for more extensive acquisitions in the south, was a constant subject of consultation during the rains, when Sivajee lay ill at Satara.¹