A History of the Mahrattas v2.c55.107

v2.c55.107

However strong the suspicion of the Peishwa’s connivance at the escape and concealment of Trimbukjee, there was no proof of the fact; and as it was thought he would rest satisfied in having effected his freedom, little notice was taken of the circumstance. Sewdasheo Bhow Mankesir was again called into the Peishwa’s councils; Moro Dixit, a student of Bassein, and Chimnajee Narrain, both Concanist Bramins, who, like most of Bajee Rao’s courtiers, had gained the favour of their prince by the dishonour of their families, were likewise employed in the administration; and Captain Ford, the commandant of the regular brigade, in whom the Peishwa placed considerable confidence because his prosperity depended on the stability of his government, was frequently the channel of communication between the British Residency and the Peishwa’s ministers. The utmost cordiality seemed to prevail between the court and the Residency at Poona; but nothing could be more deceitful on the part of Bajee Rao. He was now engaged in the most active negotiations with Sindia, Holkar, the Raja of Nagpoor, Umeer Khan, and the Pindharees, against the British Government; he made great additions to his army, and supplied Trimbukjee with large sums of money, directing him to raise troops at different places in his own territory, which, even if discovered by the British Government, might appear to be plundering Pindharees or insurgents.