New History of the Marathas v2.c31.11

v2.c31.11

Madhavrao all along watched the course of events with a keen and intelligent interest, and soon obtained full insight into the problems affecting the Maratha State and the capacities of the various agents that handled them. It was quickly discovered by many that here was a master who possessed a judgment of his own and a determination to execute it fearlessly. On the day after the conclusion of peace at Uruli, he writes to his mother, "Dada Saheb declares his intention of retiring from worldly affairs and devoting the rest of his life to worship and prayers. Sakharampant also declines to continue in office, resenting the factious intrigues of the Konknastha clique. I am soliciting Dada Saheb not to withdraw and I do respectfully seek his advice." Trimbakrao Pethe a capable person of standing and experience, held long and open discussions with Raghunathrao on the present troubles and thus reported the outcome to Gopikabai from his camp at Uruli. "Dada Saheb is altogether unfit for the high responsibility of managing the affairs during the Peshwa's minority. It is well-known how he had mishandled the situation in the north and added to the financial burden of the State. I cannot put my trust in his word. Babuji Naik and some others would not like to serve if Sakharam continues in office. Dada Saheb requires sixty or seventy lacs a year to meet his personal expenses. Whence can all this money be obtained? During Nana Saheb's regime Dada Saheb always returned from his campaigns with heavy debts and the Peshwa quietly put up with the loss. But now who can exercise a salutary check on his action? Unrestrained he would simply wreck the administration. Now the relations between him and Rao Saheb (Madhavrao) are severely strained. Every one in this huge camp has become sullen, brooding over the dismal consequences which are sure to follow."