Fall of the Mughal Empire v2.c22.s7.19

v2.c22.s7.19

Next day (27th January) arrangements were completed under Jahān Khan's care for the conqueror's visit to Delhi. It was proclaimed that along his route through the bazar to the fort no Indian should stand in the streets or on the terraces of houses for looking at his *cortege*, and all shops should be kept closed. Early in the morning of Friday the 28th of January, Ahmad Shah rode into the fort, his soldiers lining the route on both sides and firing a salute from their matchlocks. The Emperor advanced up to the Fathpuri mosque in order to welcome his august visitor. Abdali's women, mounted on camels and horses, also came with him and occupied the palace rooms vacated by Alamgir. The escort of the Shāh dispersed through the bazars and lanes, looting many places, while the rich and spacious market of Badalpurā was set on fire in addition to being plundered. The Afghan camp and baggage dismounted in the city round the fort walls. On the 29th the two sovereigns held a Public Audience seated side by side. Abdul Ahad Khan (created Abdul Majid Khan) was appointed diwān of khalsa and tan. A bridge was ordered to be thrown without delay over the Jamunā below the city, and the Hindus were ordered, on pain of fine, to put paint marks on their foreheads to distinguish them from the invader's brethren of the faith.