Fall of the Mughal Empire v1.c15.s8.8

v1.c15.s8.8

In November came reports of Abdali's preparations for a fresh invasion of the Panjab and all people from Lahor to Delhi were alarmed. The wazir proposed that the Emperor should march in person to defend the frontier. The Emperor very properly replied that there was no soldier or war-equipment under him, but he was prepared to go *alone* if the wazir thought it any good! He continued, "You are the sole centre of the Government now; all the realm and its income are in your hands. Try to collect money for paying the troops and making preparations for my march." The wazir was silenced by this speech. But a month later the anxiety from this quarter was deepened. On 8th December the wazir reported that news had repeatedly come of Abdali’s marching towards Lāhor and that it was necessary for the Emperor to set out to oppose him, the 16th of the month being an auspicious day for starting. The Emperor, on hearing this, grew thoughtful and in the evening after taking counsel with his mother answered, “The condition of the troops and the country is evident to you. Try to find money anywhere you can.” To this the wazir could give no reply. [TAh. 45.]