New History of the Marathas v1.c10.98

v1.c10.98

Manucci gives a few interesting details of Shivaji’s visit to Jay Sinh, who tried to obtain success over Shivaji and avoid a result like that of Shaista Khan. When Shivaji’s agents came to Jay Sinh, making various offers, Jay Sinh informed Shivaji through them, “If you put complete trust in me and follow my advice, I shall see that the Emperor promotes your interests highly.” Shivaji accepted this advice, put perfect faith in Jay Sinh and went fearlessly to meet him, unarmed and unattended, into the very den of the lion. The whole camp was in an excited state upon Shivaji’s arrival, lest some mischief should follow from his visit. But when it became known that he had come alone with no followers, the people in the camp felt easy. Jay Sinh provided for Shivaji’s residence a tent adjoining his own. One evening as Manucci and Jay Sinh were playing at cards, Shivaji unexpectedly dropped in. All rose to receive him and when they were seated, Shivaji pointing to Manucci asked Jay Sinh who this young gentleman was, Manucci then about 25 years of age being some twelve years younger than Shivaji. Jay Sinh replied, “this young man was the leader of the Franks, (Firangies).” Thereafter the two, Manucci and Shivaji had a long conversation together on various topics, particularly the States of Europe, their strength on land and sea and their methods of warfare. Manucci spoke Urdu fluently and they had direct talks without an interpreter.