New History of the Marathas v3.c37.89

v3.c37.89

6. Plot to depose Narayanrao.—The Nagpur agents Vyankatrao Kashi and his brother Lakshman came to Poona primarily to obtain the Peshwa’s sanction to the succession of Raghuji the son of Mudhoji, to the Chiefship of Nagpur and thus put down the pretensions of Sabaji to that office. Narayanrao, however, supported the claim of Sabaji and sent armed reinforcements under Khanderao Darekar to assist him against his brother. Mudhoji got wild at this rebuff and wrote to the two agents to stay on in Poona and organize a strong opposition to Narayanrao. Mudhoji wrote, “It is no use any longer to put up meekly with the Peshwa’s high-handedness. You may use your discretion in whatever way you think best for gaining our object by supporting R’rao’s power.” This was indeed a vague direction; but it certainly authorized the agents to join in any intrigue that might be set on foot against the ruling Peshwa.