A History of the Mahrattas v1.c18.134

v1.c18.134

‘The thieves find shelter in Mortizabad and various other districts, from whence they sally forth and plunder. Once or twice I have sent parties after them, and have cut them up. By the connivance of Foujdars, Jagheedars, and Krorees, who all share with them, these people are protected. On this head, I have made representations to Court, and have even obtained mace-bearers and made them produce the stolen articles: these people therefore are all inimical to me. Regarding the thieves, I have further sent for intelligence, and if we are sufficiently strong; you and I can unite and attack them. Meer Lootf Oolah has written that your favour is very great towards me, and therefore it is now generally known that our friendship is great and of long standing. You must know that Puddajee, the Thannadar of Boodh, has given his sister to * * *,² and thus formed a connection with him; he actually went to Ound, when the thieves were there, taking with him Beeroo Bye, the mother of Shao Nimbalkur; they eat out of the same plate together; he was feasted by them, and they by him, for three days, during which they had great rejoicing. It is your province to watch over and guard the king’s garrisons. The imperial army is now within twenty kos of us. What will it be when hood of Poona, of which place he had also changed the name to Moyabad,¹ and marched towards Beejapoor.