Later Mughals v1.c7.s6.1

v1.c7.s6.1

Until two hours after sunset on this day, Rafi-ush-shan stood two *kos* from the field of battle, with his army drawn up in readiness. He had been advised to stand aloof and await the result of Jahan Shah’s efforts. The astrologers had also told him that in the end, the prize would fall to his lot. In this way his inaction is to be accounted for. It was now necessary to find out how the day had gone.† The patrols and scouts brought in conflicting reports; the only thing certain was that one or other of the two parties had gained the day. At length, when about one-fourth of the night had passed, an elephant without a driver appeared in the distance. When it had been captured, it was found that within the canopy was seated one of the children of Jahan Shah with its nurse. Rafi-ush-shan re-assured the child by giving him some fruit, and from his lips the fate of the battle was learnt. The Prince then sent one of his eunuchs to Jahandar Shah with a message to the effect that he (Rafi-ush-shan) not having in any way broken the compact, what were his brother’s intentions with respect to him? On reaching the tent of Jahandar Shah, the eunuch was told that the Emperor, tired out by exertions extending over a whole day and night, had retired to rest and could not be disturbed. The messenger proceeded next to the quarters of Zulfiqar Khan, where he was met with the same excuse. He now took his way to Kokaltash Khan, whom he found still awake, and to him he conveyed his master's message. Kokaltash Khan, styled indignantly by Kamwar Khan a 'senseless blockhead,' called out 'Perhaps you have come to see Jahan Shah; there they are, the corpses of father and son; tell Rafi if he wants to fight, he will meet the same fate.' The eunuch returned and reported to his master what he had heard and seen. [Kamwar 112, Qasim 58.]