A History of the Mahrattas v1.c19.84

v1.c19.84

The influence of Ballajee Wishwanath continued to increase, and no affair of importance was undertaken without his advice. A conciliatory policy was agreeable to Shao and dictated all Ballajee’s measures. The system of Sivajee was the groundwork of their arrangements ; but, since the time of Sumbhajee, the necessity of preserving the Raja’s supremacy by profusely issuing deeds, confirming to the successful Mahratta leader the possession of all the territory in which he could establish himself, was ruinous both to their union and resources as a nation. The nature, however, of the tribute which Sivajee’s genius had instituted, suggested a remedy for the endless divisibility which every additional acquisition of territory was likely to create. The expedient adopted, which must have been long contemplated, will be shown in its proper place ; and although it but temporarily ensured its end, is the most ingenious as well as the deepest scheme of Bramin policy which is to be found unconnected with their religious system. The ministry, as far as practicable, was composed of the old retainers, and the situations of those who adhered to the Kolapoor party were conferred on their near relations.