The Aravidu Dynasty of Vijayanagara, Vol. I v1.c27.54

v1.c27.54

6. The Viceroy naturally returned this courtesy with an embassy of his own, the account of which is also found in one of the Jesuit letters that runs as follows: "The ambassador was received by the King (Venkata) with great respect and splendour, as on his arrival at Chandegri (Chandragiri) one of the chiefs of the Royal Council, accompanied by elephants, camels, horses, kettle-drummers and other signs of joy and meriment, went out to fetch him and lodge him in the best palaces and houses of that city. The King was at that time at Tripeti (Tirupati), two leagues from Chandegri. The King determined to receive our ambassador in this city, for which he sent his favourite with great show and reverence to bring him there. The King was outside a very great court; not dressed in rich clothes, because it is not customary, but covered with precious stones, armlets and strings of pearls from his feet to the crown of his head: he wore among others two jewels of great beauty, one of which was an emerald surrounded by big pearls and brilliant diamonds, and the other a ruby of high price and extraordinary greatness. The ambassador knelt down, but the King ordered him to get up and sit down. He (the King) joyfully received the letter and the gift of the Viceroy, and spoke of the friendly relations he wished to have with the Portuguese, and of other things concerning the welfare of the State. Then he sent back the ambassador loaded with honours and presents" 1.