New History of the Marathas v1.c9.62

v1.c9.62

As Shivaji remained entirely on the defensive and bided his time, it was Afzal Khan who became impatient to start talks for alluring Shivaji into a personal visit under the pretext of arranging an amicable settlement. For this he had to select a convenient agent, one who knew Shivaji and who would loyally help the Khan in bringing about a personal meeting. Krishnāji Bhāskar, the Kulkarni of Wāi, whose descendants are still living there, and who owed everything to the Bijapuri Government, was induced by Afzal Khan to take up the mission. He was asked to assure Shivaji of the Khan’s high regard and great friendship for him and his family and bring him over to Wāi for a personal exchange of views. It was suggested that if Shivaji willingly offered to submit to the Shah’s authority, he would be cordially received and highly promoted in the Adilshahi service like his father, that it was quite possible that his own ambitions and the interests of the Bijapur Government could be mutually adjusted to the satisfaction of both.