Later Mughals v1.c6.s29.17

v1.c6.s29.17

Although by strict chronological order the conclusion of the envoy's story should appear in the next chapter, it seems better to make no break but carry it on to its conclusion. During the contest for the crown, the details of which we shall soon come to, no notice was taken either of the ambassadors or of the Company's affairs, much time was thus lost and much expense incurred. Nor were their persons and property altogether safe. To add to the difficulties of the position Jahandar Shah called upon them for military aid. After much consultation together this was refused, the chief plea being the ill-health of M. Ketelaar. Jahandar Shah accepted the excuses, and advised the Dutchmen to remove into the city so that they might evade similar demands from the other competitors for the throne. They rented three katras, or walled enclosures, in Lahor and succeeded in removing their baggage thither without loss, although the country was now swarming with plunderers.