Fall of the Mughal Empire v2.c26.s2.11

v2.c26.s2.11

The exasperation grew bitterer on both sides, and at last the storm burst on 24th July, 1755. Peace-talks had been opened on behalf of Bijay Singh by Gosāin Bijay Bhārati some time ago, but no settlement was reached. The negotiator and his associates used to go and come between the city and the Maratha camp. On 24th July the Gosāin came to Jayapa’s tent with Rāj Singh Chaubān and Jajneshwar from Nāgor. They were joined by Rāwat Jait Singh Sisodiā, who was living in the Maratha camp as the Mahārānā’s ambassador, to lend his services as a neutral mediator. That day the discussion was prolonged and feelings ran high.* The Rathor envoy asked the Maratha general, “What do you mean by coming to our territory and demanding tribute? What do you take yourself to be?” Jayapa haughtily pointed to his sword as his authority. The Rathor pleaded, “Do not be too proud of your swordsmanship and strength of arm. Know that God alone can grant one man supremacy over another.” But these words only heightened Jayapa’s fury. After abusing the Rathor Rajah and his agents as cowards, he thundered out, “By the stroke of my shoes I shall collect tribute from you.” This was more than the ancient peers of Hindustan, claiming descent from the Sun and the Moon, could bear from a Brahman’s hereditary slipper-bearer. In an instant the Rathor’s dagger leaped out of its scabbard and was plunged again and again in Jayapa’s bosom; his companions completed the work with their swords. At once the alarm was sounded, and a wild tumult swept through Jayapa’s camp. The Marathas flew to arms; the three envoys of Bijay Singh were cut down, and the innocent