New History of the Marathas v2.c29.23

v2.c29.23

4. Kunjpura captured.—On 7th October Bhau Saheb left Delhi for Kunjpura, a distance of 78 miles, while 78 miles further north was Sarhind. Bhau Saheb went on from Delhi, minutely examining the fords of the Jamuna, and as none was discovered, he made no arrangement for guarding against the eventuality of the Shah crossing over to his side. Sonpat 36 miles from Delhi and Panipat another 20 miles beyond were passed by Bhau Saheb. Kunjpura lay 22 miles further north on the right bank of the river Jamuna, an outpost strongly guarded by the Shah Abdali’s partizans and plentifully stocked with provisions and ammunition as a mid-way base for his return. Having travelled two stages from Delhi, Sadashivrao discovered the mischievous report Najib Khan had circulated and at once arranged for a public ceremonial and declaration at Delhi, proclaiming Shah Alam as the Emperor and appointing in his absence his son Jawan Bakht as his regent (Vali-Ahad) and minting fresh coins in that Emperor’s name, (10 October 1760.)