A History of the Mahrattas v2.c46.29

v2.c46.29

This period of the revolution brought many persons into notice, although none so obscure as the individual just mentioned. Of these, one of the most conspicuous was the person employed by Nana Furnuwees to negotiate with Ryajee Patell in order to bring over Sindia; the name of this man was Sukaram Ghatgay of the Kagul family, whose ancient title, as already mentioned, was Shirzee Rao.¹ Sukaram, having had a quarrel with his relation Yeswunt Rao Ghatgay, the brother-in-law of the Raja of Kolapoor, concerning the hereditary rights in their native village, they took up arms to assert them. Sukaram being defeated was obliged to fly from the Kolapoor territory, and seek shelter with Pureshram Bhow, into whose service he entered, and afterwards exchanged it for that of Nana Furnuwees, who gave him the command of one hundred horse. When Nana quitted Poona, Sukaram Ghatgay entered Sindia’s service, where he obtained a similar command. He was of an active, bold, intriguing disposition; and by his address had gained the good-will of Ryajee Patell. He was also at this time much courted by Sindia, by reason of the reputed beauty of his daughter, whom Sindia wished to espouse; and Sukaram, who regarded his own aggrandizement more than the dignity of his house, which would be tarnished by his giving a genuine daughter of the Kagulkur Ghatgay to the spurious offspring of the Patells of Kunneirkheir,