History of the Khaljis, A.D. 1290–1320 c20.s2.58

c20.s2.58

Shadi Khatta, the Sar-i-Silahdār,⁵⁶ arrived at Gwalior from Jhain. He was deputed to assassinate Khizr Khan, Shadi Khan and Shihābuddīn, the three sons of 'Alāuddīn, and to bring their families to Delhi.⁵⁷ These princes had already been blinded and were permitted only bare sustenance. According to Amir Khusrau, who does not say anything about Asaduddīn's revolt, the Sultan sent a message to Khizr Khan beginning with a sympathetic introduction but ending with a preposterous request. "You have lost sight of the eye and health of the body", wrote Qutbuddin. "You know I have not been instrumental in all this...but now the oppressor (Malik Naib) is dead. If you were thrown into imprisonment, time for your release has arrived. I will make you governor of a province, an honour you amp'y deserve. You should, however, not burn in the fire of love for Deval Rani who is after all your slave. I hear that she has attained to such an elevation that you lay your head at her feet. Even if she was as beautiful as the Moon, she was not worthy of your worship. We wish that she may not be left with you. As she has been given to you by the Royalty, it is desired that she may be sent back to us. When your infatuation (lunacy) for her is a little abated she would be sent back to you to serve you as a slave."⁵⁸