History of Kanauj to the Moslem Conquest c10.s3.63

c10.s3.63

In the absence of any other Maukhari claimant, should Harṣa then be asked to assume the burden and cares of the state on behalf of Rājyaśrī? Both he and his elder brother had rendered signal service to Kanauj during the political whirlpool that had threatened to engulf the kingdom. He had rescued its queen and between the brother and the sister the greatest fondness and attachment prevailed. Harṣa had further declared his intention of cherishing her "for a while," even though it meant the neglect of royal duties, which expression probably implies that he was prepared to stay in Kanauj for some time in order to settle its affairs, before he could undertake the fulfilment of his vow to punish those who had become inimical by the "elasticity of their bows." Accordingly the statesmen offered the crown to Harṣa, and Poni¹, whose power and reputation were high and of much weight, addressed the assembled ministers thus: "The destiny of the nation is to be fixed today...... I propose that he assume the royal authority; let each one give his opinion on the matter, whatever he thinks."² The Chief Ministers and Magistrates signified their full consent, exhorting Harṣa in these words: "Reign, then, with glory over the land, conquer the enemies of your country; wash out the insult laid on your kingdom"³.