A History of the Mahrattas v1.c17.6

v1.c17.6

A.D. 1681.—Sumbhajee, whilst his fleet and troops were thus employed, proceeded to Panalla, for what purpose is not clearly ascertained, though perhaps it may have been to conduct some negotiations with the Beejapoor government. He remained there until recalled to Raigurh by the appearance of an illustrious fugitive who sought an asylum in his territory. This personage was Sultan Mohummud Akber, the fourth son of the Emperor Aurungzebe, who, having been won over by the Rajpoots, consented to head a rebellion against his father, but the scheme was frustrated by the Emperor’s address, and the prince fled towards Sumbhajee’s country, which he was fortunate enough to reach, though he was hotly pursued and the strictest orders issued to all the imperial officers of the districts in his route to intercept him.²