New History of the Marathas v1.c15.47

v1.c15.47

As Sambhājī had received ample experience of life in Dilir Khan’s camp, Shivaji did not purposely use any harsh measures towards him, but treated him with kindness and affectionate consideration. He employed a large staff of officials to prepare complete and detailed lists of the property of the Maratha State, the acquisitions of a life of strenuous labour and achievement. This was meant indirectly to impress Sambhājī with the idea of what one man could achieve and what responsibility rested on his shoulders in his prospective inheritance. These lists are minute and full and include every item trivial or costly, cash, ornaments, valuables, stores, provisions, arms, forts and property of every description.²