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F E R I S H TJ’ s

HISTORY OF DEKKAN,

FROM

THE FIRST MAHUMMEDAN CONQUESTS :

WITH

A CONTINUATION FROM OTHER NATIVE WRITERS, OF THE EVENTS IN
THAT PART OF INDIA, TO THE REDUCTION OF ITS LAST
MONARCHS BY THE EMPEROR AULUMGEER AURUNGZEBE :

ALSO,

THE REIGNS OF HIS SUCCESSORS IN THE EMPIRE OF HINDOSTAN
TO THE PRESENT DAY :

AND

THE HISTORT OF BENGAL,

FROM THE ACCESSION OF ALIVERDEE KHAN TO THE YEAR 1780.
COMPRISED IN SIX PARTS.

BY JONATHAN SCOTT,

CAPTAIN IN THE EAST INDIA COMPANY’S SERVICE, PERSIAN SECRETARY
TO THE LATE GOVERNOR GENERAL, WARREN HASTINGS, ESQ^ AND
MEMBER OF THE ASIATIC SOCIETY IN CALCUTTA.

VOL. II.

SHREWSBURY:

Printed by J. and W. Eddowes,

For John Stockdale, Piccadilly, London.

1794.

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https://archive.org/details/ferishtashistory02firi_0

PART III.

AURUNGZEBE’s

OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

y*UHUA

PREFACE.

Mr. Or me, with whofe elegant works relative to India the
publick are well acquainted, has, in his Hiftoncai Fragments of
the Mogul Empire, inferted the following note:

‘‘We are not without hopes, that fome of the many in
“ India, who have the means, will fupply the portions of in-
“ formation which are deficient, and muft, otherwife, always
“ continue out of our reach. The knowledge is well worth
“ the enquiry ; for, befides the energy of the' characters which
“ arife within this period, there are no flates or powers on
“ the continent of India, with whom our nation have any
“ connection or concern, who do not owe the origin of their
“ prefent condition to the reign of Aurungzebe, or to its
“ influence on the reigns of his fucceflors.”

The perufal of Mr. Or mb’s works, when in India, firfl:
excited my curioiity to obtain that information, the want of
which he regrets ; and for this purpoie I procured every manu-
fcript likely to afford any anecaotes of Aurungzebe and his
fucceflors. Of the Tranfactions of his reign, efpecially his Oper-
Vol. II. B ations

PREFACE.

ations in Dekkan, by far the moll important, (unlefs we ex-
cept his wars with his brothers, and the depofal of his father,
which have been publifhed by colonel Dow, in his third volume
of the Hiftory of Hindooftan,) I have not met with a better
account than the following. It is a free tranllation of a Jour-
nal kept by a Bondela officer, who attended Dulput Roy, the
chief of his tribe, in all Aurungzebe's campaigns, which was
prefented to me by the Raja of *Dutteah, a great grandfon of
Dulput Roy, when I adted as Perlian interpreter to a detachment
under colonel Pop ham, in the Ghoed country.

a A principality, according to the imperial divifion of the empire, forming
part of the Agra province. This raja is now tributary to the Mharattas, as
well as all the other Bondela chiefs, whofe country is denominated, in our maps,
Bundelcund.

AURUNGZEBE’s

OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

HAVING in the preceding volume, as far as authorities could be
obtained, brought the hiftory of Dekkan to the decline of her two
laft monarchies of Golconda and Beejapore, in which the gradual
encroachments of the Mogul or Dhely emperors are mentioned as
far down as the clofe of the reign of Shaw Jehaun, we come next to
the operations of Aurungzebe, his fon. He caufed their final diffo-
lution ; but, by adding to the extent of his dominions in Dekkan,
defiroyed a balance of power, the want of which enabled the ftates,
who rofe on the ruins of his conquefts, in lefs than a century to be
the chief agents in rendering the empire of Hindooftan, to the
family of Timur, a mere nominal fovereignty. It will be recollect-
ed, that Aurungzebe was governor of Dekkan, on the part of his
father Shaw jehaun ; and that at the clofe of the laft volume he
had juft impofed fevere conditions on the fultan of Golconda, when
he was drawn from his operations, by the alarming ftate of affairs
at the court of his father.

At this period a new power, the celebrated Sewajee, founder
of the Mharatta ftates, was riling into notice ; an account of whom
begins the following pages.

VOL. II. B 2

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

OF the origin of Sewajee, the founder of the prefent Mharatta
Rate in Dekkan, we have the following account. Bheem Sing, or
Sein, rana of Odipore, the firft in rank among the Hindoo princes,
had a fon named Baug Sing, by a a concubine of a tribe very inferior
to his own. On the death of his father, Baug Sing finding himfelf
defpifedand neglected by his relations, the Sefodia Raajepootes, who,
from the low cafi: of his mother, regarded him only as a baftard,
and not of their tribe, became weary of the indignities fhewn him ;
and moved from Odipore to Khandefhe, where he embraced the
fervice of a zemindar, named Raja Ali Mohun. His abilities pro-
cured him the confidence of his patron to fuch a degree, that at his
death he appointed him guardian to his fon ; and Baug Sing executed
the truft with honour. When the young raja became of age to
take upon himfelf the condudt of his affairs, Baug Sing, for what
reafon does not appear, declined his fervice, and retired into Dek-
kan, where he purchafed a tratf: of land near the prefent Mharatta
capital of Poonah, and fettled upon it as zeminaar, in which fituation
he died.

Baug Sing had four fons, two of whom, Malojee and Bumbojee,
being of an enterprizing fpirit, entered into the fervice of Jadoo
Roy, a Mharatta chief, and of diftinguifhed rank at the court of
Bahadur Nizam Shaw.

Malojee had two fons, Sahjee, or Shawjee, and Shurfajee.
b Bumbojee had fix fons, who entered, as foldiers of fortune, into
the fervice of a zemindar of Beejapore.

Malojee

a Said to be a carpenter’s daughter. This is overlooked by the Bhofelah family,
who in their own annals are filed only a younger branch of Odipore. Baug Sing was
called in Dekkan, Bhofelah, of which term are given two interpretations. One is
complimentary, as fignifying the terror of his enemies} the other opprobrious, of his
mother’s low condition.

b From him the prefent raja of Nagpore Berar is defcended, and the head of the
Bhofelah family at prefent, if the elder branch is extindt, as reported.

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

Malojee gradually acquired rank and influence with his patron,
from whom he obtained a promife of his only daughter in marriage
for his eldeft fon Sahjee ; but Jadoo Roy afterwards, from fome dif-
gufl, refuflng to fulfil his engagement, Malojee appealed for redrefs
to Nizam Shaw, who obliged the chief to confent to the nuptials,
which were celebrated with great pomp : and thus the Bhofelah
family became incorporated with the Mharattas, and commonly
efleemed as fuch in Hindooftan.

A connection thus introduced upon him by force, could not be
pleafing to Jadoo Roy, who from the moment of its confummation
accordingly became jealous of his fon in law ; and on the death of
his father Malojee, Sahjee, by his abilities having acquired the
favour of the queen mother, regent to her fon a minor, was regarded
only as a dangerous rival by his wife’s father. An open rupture
enfued, and Jadoo Roy, by the afliftance of the imperial troops then
meditating conquefts in Dekkan, obliged Sahjee to quit the kingdom,
though at the expenfe of its welfare, by introducing the enemy of his
fovereign.

Sahjee with his followers, thus driven from Ahmednuggur, now
entered into the fervice of Ibrahim Adil Shaw, king of Beejapore,
who gave him a jaghire in the Carnatic, with a command of ten
thoufand horfe. Soon after this, his fon Sewajee, afterwards fo
celebrated in Dekkan, was bom, from the daughter of Jadoo Roy
Mharatta; by whom Sahjee had already one fon, named Sambojee,
who was in early youth killed in adtion againfl a refractory zemindar
of Beejapore.

Sahjee having difagreed with his wife, on account of his hatred
to her father, refolved on feparationj and, accordingly, fent her,
with the infant Sewajee, to whom he fhewed no affedtion, to refide
at Poonah, of which, and the vicinity, he had obtained a grant,

under

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

under the charge of one of his officers, named Dadajee Punt, to
whom he alfo committed the management of the zemindaree.

Sahjee now married a fecond wife, alfo a Mharatta, by whom
he had a fon named Angojee, or Ekojee, to whom he transferred all
his fondnefs from his former connexion. Continuing to rife in honours
and confequence, under the patronage of Morar Jugdeo, dewan to
the fultan, he became one of the principal chiefs of Beejapore j and
though on the death of the king his patron was put to death by the
queen regent, Sahjee fuffered no injury in his fortunes.

Junjuppa Naik, poligar ofMudkul, being at enmity with Punchee
Ragoo, zemindar of Tanjore, invited Sahjee to his affiftance ; and
in conjunction they defeated the raja, who was flain in the aCtion,
and poflefled themfelves of the capital and all his dominions. The
allies quarrelling on the divifion of the plunder and the fum to be
paid to Sahjee for his fervices, he attacked Junjuppa, flew him in
battle, and thus obtained an eafy conquefl of the zemindarees of
Tanjore and Mudkul, in which he obtained confirmation from the
regency of Beejapore, and fettled them on his fon Ekojee, whofe
pofterity ftill hold them under the navob of Arcot, or rather, the
Britifh government.

Sewajee, though negleCled by his father, was properly educated
by his guardian Dadajee ; and at the age of feventeen excelled in
every accomplifhment. Military fame was his firfl: paflion ; and the
government of Beejapore being now weakened by inteftine divifions
and the encroachments of the Moguls, he had foon an opportunity
of fignalizing himfelf among other rebels. Contrary to the remon-
flrances of Dadajee, he raifed a banditti, and plundered the neigh-
bouring diftriCts ; which condudt in his charge fo affedted the old
man, that he poifoned himfelf from vexation, and to avoid the im-
putation of affifting in his defigns. Sewajee now took pofleffion of

the

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN,

the jaghire, raifed more troops, fuccefsfully levied contributions on
feveral zemindars, and much extended the limits of his territories.

Sahjee, either from inability, or contented with his rich zemindaree
of Tanjore, connived at his excefies, and made over to him the
revenues of Poonah.

At this crilis Aurungzebe, governor of the imperial territories in
Dekkan, was meditating the overthrow of his brother Dara Shekkoh,
who was the favourite of their father, the emperor Shaw Jehaun,
now in a dangerous flate of health. For this purpofe he was pre-
paring an army to march to Agra ; and, obferving the enterprizing
genius of Sewajee, fent him an invitation to his fervice. Sewajee
pretending to be ft ruck with horror, (for his own conduct proves its
hypocrify) at the rebellion of a fon againft a father, received the
prince’s meffenger with indignity, drove him from his prefence, and
ordered the letter he had brought to be tied to the tail of a dog.
Aurungzebe for the prefent ftifled his refentment, but never could
forgive Sewajee’s infclence ; and hence may be dated his tedious
war in Dekkan, and finally the ruin of the Mogul empire by the
Mharattas.

Aurungzebe, on his moving from Dekkan, committed the A. H. 1066.
government of it to his fecond fon, fultan Mahummud Mauzim, A* 1655.
under the tutelage of an experienced general, with orders to aCl only
on the defenfive till he fhould have decided his pretenfions to the
imperial throne.

Aurungzebe having left Dekkan, Sewajee refolved to turn the
inactivity of the imperial troops, and the weaknefs of the Golconda
and Beejapore princes, to the utmoft advantage. He took the ftrong
fortrefs of Rairee, or Raujeghur, which he fixed upon as the feat of
his government; and fucceflively captured Porundeh, Jagneh, and
other places, with confiderable diftriCts dependant on Beejapore.

The

AURUNGZEBE’s operations in dekkan.

The regency of Beejapore, being alarmed at his encroachments,
fent him threats mingled with offers of pardon ; but he regarded nei-
ther, and continued his rebellion. Having by treachery put to death
the zemindar of Jaowlee, he poffeffed himfelf of an immenfe treafure
and that diftriCt. He next plundered the rich manufacturing city of
Kallean ; took Madury and Purdhaunghur ; at which laft he found a
valuable buried treafure. Rajapore near Bombay, Sungarpore, and
an ifland belonging to the Portuguefe, next fell into his hands.

The Beejapore government having in vain defired Sahjee, (who
difclaimed all connection with him, and pretended that he had dis-
carded him as a relation,) to reprefs the exceffes of his fon, at length
fent againft him a confiderable army, under a general named Ab-
doolla Khan.

Sewajee with artful policy now wrote to the general, imploring
pardon for his crimes, and inviting him to come and receive his fub-
mifiion. Abdoolla advanced without oppofition near the refidence of
the rebel, and it was agreed that he fhould repair to a tent, with ten
followers, where Sewajee would meet him with only five attendants.
They met accordingly, when the treacherous zemindar ttabbed Ab-
doolla in embracing him. Upon a fignal given, the Mharattas, rufh-
ing from an ambufcade, attacked the unfufpeCting army of Beejapore,
which, deprived of their chief, was quickly defeated. Sewajee
plundered their rich camp, and by this victory became matter of all
Kokun, the zemindars of which flocked to acknowledge his authority,
to fave their poffettions. The ttrong fortrefs of Sittarra and other
places alfo opened their gates to receive him.

A new army was fent from Beejapore under Afzul Khan, fon of
the murdered general, but without fuccefs ; Sewajee, even without
hazarding an engagement, obliging them to retreat by cutting off
their fupplies; and after this the Beejapore government, divided

internally

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

internally, and apprehending attacks from the armies of Aurungzebe,
who had now obtained poffeffion of the throne, made no effort againft
him. In the courfe only of three years, Sewajee became a power-
ful prince, his authority being acknowledged over almoft the whole
coaft of Malabar.

To relate here the ftruggles for the throne between Aurungzebe
and his unfortunate brothers, Dara Shekkoh, fultan Shujah, and
Moraud Bukfh, with the depofal of their father, the emperor Shaw
Jehaun, would interrupt too much the objed of this work, the
History of Dekkan. Of thefe events, by fuch as wifh to
perufe them, a an excellent account may be feen in the Travels of
Bernier, publifhed in Lord Oxford’s Colledion of Voyages. It
agrees with the native hiftories of Hindooftan in every fad, and
abounds with juft obfervations of his own. Bernier refided with
Danufhmund Khan, a nobleman of high rank and office, in the fer-
vice of Aurungzebe, during the events he relates. Suffice it to fay
here, that Aurungzebe afcended the throne by the title of Aulum-
geer, in the year 1068 of the Mahummedan aera. From this period, a. D. 1657.
the memorable events of his whole reign are noticed, but the affairs
of Dekkan more particularly detailed in the following work.

Of the proceedings of the imperialifts in Dekkan, during thefe A. H. 1069.
events, no notice is taken in the hiftory of Aulumgeer. It is proba- l658*

ble, they aded merely on the defenfive. Sultan Mahummud Mau-
zim was this year recalled by his father, and the ameer a 1 amra,

Shaifteh Khan, appointed foubahdar of Dekkan, with orders to flop
the progrefs of Sewajee.

The ameer al amra, after fome flay at Aurungabad, marched to A. H. 1070.
reduce Jagneh, a ftrong fortrefs in pofleffion of Sewajee ; which he A.D. 1659.
took, and proceeded to Poonah, where he fixed his refidence ; while
Vol. II. C his

* There is one alfo in the third volume of Dow’s hiftory of Hindooftan, nearly the
fame as Bernier’s.

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

his troops under Naumdaur Khan laid wafte the country of the
rebel, who, though unequal to cope with the imperialilts in the
field, harafled them frequently by night attacks and cutting off
their fupplies ; fo that their conqueft of feveral forts was but of
little ufe to the progrefs of their arms.

A. H. 1072. Sewajee ftill continued to refill; in Dekkan, and this year fignal-

A. D. 1661. jzecj himfeif by a remarkable exploit at Poonah, where the ameer al
amra yet refided. Having by his fpies learned that the navob and
his troops were lulled into carelefs fecurity, he one night, with a
feledt band of tried followers, after a forced march of forty miles,
entered the city, and palling without alarm to the palace, mined his
pafiage into the women’s apartments, with fifteen of his companions.
The ameer al amra, awakened by the noife, ftarted up, and received
two wounds as he ran to call for help into an outer room ; but his
fon Abou Futteh was llain, and fome female fervants with him, be-
fore he could procure affiftance. At length, the guards arriving,
Sewajee made his efcape by the way he had entered, without lofing
a man. The ameer al amra attributing this furprize to the con-
nivance of Jefiwunt Sing, his fecond in command, was fearful of
remaining longer at Poonah, and retired to Aurungabad ; from
whence he was recalled foon after to court, and the prince Mahum-
mud Mauzim again fent to the government of Dekkan, which he
held for two years. During thefe, no memorable event occurs in
hiftory, and at the end of this period the prince was ordered to court.

A. H. 1075. Mirza Raja Jeyfing, who was fent governor of Dekkan on the
A. D. 1664. recall of the prince Mahummud Mauzim, immediately began opera-
tions againft Sewajee, who had extended his ufurpations over great
part of the Beejapore territories on the coafi: of Malabar, and carried
his predatory incurfions as far as Surat, which he plundered of im-
menfe wealth, it being then the richeR feaport of the empire.

Mirza

AURUNGZERE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

Mirza Raja, with his fecond in command, Dilleer Khan, after
having fuccefsfully repulfed the armies of Sewajee, and laid wafte
his country, fat down before Poonadher, a ftrong fortrefs, which
the Mharatta, regarding as impregnable, had chofen for the afylum
of the women and treafures of himfelf and all his principal followers.
The imperialifts, by a refolute aflault, having made themfelves
mailers of a redoubt, iituated on an eminence which commanded the
fort, Sewajee was reduced to the laft extremity. In this exigence,
he took the refolution of throwing himfelf on the mercy of his
enemy. To the furprize of the beiiegers, he, with a few attendants
unarmed, appeared fuddenly at one of the outpofts, and demanded
to be conducted to the general. The Mirza Raja fent his own fon,
Keerut Sing, to accompany him to his prefence, with all the cufto-
mary honours due to his rank. The whole camp preifed in crowds
to fee this celebrated hero, and the Mirza Raja having come as far as
the door of his tent to meet him, after embracing, enquired the
occafion of his thus putting himfelf into his power.

Sewajee replied, that war was attended with the ruin of thoufands,
and crimes thus accumulated on both parties ; that he was at length
fenfible how heinous it was in him, the meaneft of Haves, to rebel
againft the orders of the king of kings, and that he now faw his own
intereft, and that of his family and country, to be in fubmiflion and
obedience to the emperor. That, regarding the Mirza Raja as his
father, he had thus of his own accord fled to his prefence, that he
might, through his paternal mediation and interceflion, obtain for-
givenefs and pardon for the crimes he had been guilty of, and
procure from his majefty fome honourable command, as that againft
Candahar, or any other equally important ; that in cafe the Maha-
raja would lay the hand of paternal protection on his head, he would
immediately make an offering of twenty four of his forts, with the
countries dependant.

C 2

The

I Z AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN,

The Maharaja, looking on this occurrence as a gift of the divine
bleffing, inftantly exchanged with him the adoption of father and
fon, ordered the march of victory to be beat, and informing Dilleer
Khan of Sewajee’s fubmiffion, defired him to ceafe hostilities. The
Khan was at firft offended that any capitulation had been made without
his confultation, and fent for anfwer, that as muffulmauns had been
killed during the fiege, and a breach was effected, alfo a difpofition
made for the affault, he* would not confent to a peace until the fort
Should be taken. The Mirza Raja the next morning, in order to
mollify the Khan’s difpleafure, fent Sewajee with his fon Keerut
Sing to vifit him ; which compliment had the defired effedt, and he
withdrew his troops from the batteries. Sewajee the fame day fur-
rendered Poonadher to the imperial generals, and gave up the keys
of twenty four other forts- to the Mirza Raja, who appointed kella-
daars to each, and fent off a petition in favour of Sewajee to the
fublime court.

A. H. 1075. Orders had before this been iffued to the Mirza Raja, that he

A. D. 1665. fhould immediately upon the reduction of Poonadher poffefs himfelf
of Beejapore. Sewajee alfo, after the imperial troops had taken
poffeffion of the places he had given up, and the difpatch of his
petition to the prefence, reprefented to the raja, that it was ufelefs
to remain inactive with fuch a fine army until the arrival of an
anfwer, that, if he approved, he would join him to befiege Beeja-
pore, the fall of which would be a proof of his good fervices in the
eyes of his majefty. The raja accordingly having, belides the
cultomary imperial donations, distributed from his own treafuiy a
corore of rupees among the amras and troops, began his march with
an army of fifty fix thoufand horfe and foot. Syed Elias, from
Beejapore, advanced to meet him, with an army of eighty thoufand
men, and a defperate engagement occurred ; in which the Beejapore
general being killed by a mufquet bullet, by Soopkerrun Bondela,
his army was defeated, and the imperial troops purfued the fugitives

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

to within five cols of the city: but foon after this a great fcarcity
of provifions prevailed in the camp, as the enemy had laid wafte tho
country round, and it was impoffible to carry fupplies for a con-
ftancy for fo large a force, fo that it became daily more difficult
to remain or advance.

At this time alfo, anfwers arrived from court, and his majefty’s
orders were ifiued, that Sewajee fhould receive a lack of rupees from
the treafury of Dekkan, and proceed to the imperial prefence. Fat-
teh Jung Khan, who was efcorting treafure from Aurungabad to the
Mirza Raja’s camp, was attacked by a large body of the enemy
between Porundeh and Sholapore. He made a gallant defence, but
was flain in the action, and the treafure and baggage fell into the
enemy’s hands. The Mirza Raja having given aifurances of pro-
tection to the nobility of Beejapore, many chiefs came over to him,
whom he gratified with prefents and honours in the emperor’s name.
Having given Sewajee permiffion to retire to regulate his country,
previous to his going to the prefence, and fent with him Kallean
Sing, a commander of five hundred, the Mirza Raja retreated from
Nagpana, and cantoned for the rainy feafon at the refervoir of
Kikeroolla, twelve cofs from Porundeh.

Sewajee having vifited his country, began his journey to the
imperial court. When he arrived at Aurungabad, he was attended
by five hundred noble horfe, elegantly caparifoned, and about the
fame number of feled and well accoutred infantry. The whole city
came out of curiofity to meet him. SufF Shekun Khan, an ameer
of three thoufand and deputy governor, regarding Sewajee only in
the light of a Mharatta zemindar, fat himfelf, with the publick
officers in full aflembly, thinking that he would pay him the firfi:
vifit, and only fent his nephew to meet him without the city, and
condud him to his palace. But this affronted Sewajee, who turned
off diredly to the Mirza Raja’s palace ; and upon being told that

* the

14 AURUN GZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

the governor expected him in full affembly, afked angrily. Who is
Suff Shekun Khan ? what office does he hold here ? and why has he
not come out to meet me ? Then, having difmiffed the nephew and
his train, he alighted at the palace. In the evening, Suff Shekun
Khan and the publick officers came in ftate to vifit him, and he
received them at the foot of the carpets, and entered familiarly into
converfation. The next day Sewajee returned the vifit. The
deputy governor and other officers each entertained him, according
to their ability. He flayed at Aurungabad till he had received the
bounty ordered from the treafury, and then proceeded on his journey
to court, where he arrived in fafety.

Sewajee, when introduced to the imperial prefence, did not meet
with the honours he expedted. Being placed among the amras of
five thoufand, he afked, to what rank the flation was affigned ? and
being told, it was that allotted to the raja Ram Sing Sefodiah,
wept, and fainted away. Orders were given to carry him into the
court of the bathing apartments, where they fanned and fprinkled
him with rofe- water. Apparently, he was overcome by the fplendour
and magnificence of the imperial court ; but none were acquainted
with his real diforder. When he came to himfelf he begged to be
carried to the place appointed for his refidence ; where being ar-
rived, he began to talk in a frantic manner, and pretended mad-
nefs, often crying out, “ Now fuch a criminal as I am have put
“ myfelf into the talons of the eagle, why does he not quickly put
(t me to death ?”

Thefe mad effufions were related to his majefty, who ordered
that Ram Sing, fon to the Mirza Raja, fhould take care of him.
Shortly after this, agreeably to Sewajee’s own requeft, it was repre-
fented to the emperor, that as he now had come to the prefence, he
defired that his attendants, who were ufed to Dekkan, and did not
chufe to live out of it, might have leave to return to their homes.

His

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

His majefly regarded this requell as highly favourable to keeping
him at court without trouble, and permitted all his followers, except
his fon Sambah and a few of the principal perfons, to return to
Dekkan.

Before this, Sewajee had made it a cuftom, every Thurfday to
diflribute among the poor, who crouded in great numbers to his gate
on this occalion, great quantities of pallry and fweetmeats, which
were brought in large balkets, each of which required three or four
men to bear it ; and thefe, when emptied, were carried out again to
the confectioner’s. Ram Sing had requeued that his people might
be recalled; and the guards of Folaud Khan, the city cutwal, were
then ordered to keep the watch over him. Sewajee by his generality
fo gained upon his keepers, that they were contented with feeing
him every morning and evening; after the laft of which vilits, he
conftantly retired to deep, on pretence ofillnefs. When every thing
was ripe for his intended plan, Sewajee, one Thurfday evening,
having acquainted his confidants of his delign, ordered a Have to
take his place on the bed, and leaving the cuftomary attendants in
the room, emptied the fweetmeats, and putting his fon into one of
the balkets, laid himfelf in another, in which they were carried out
of the houfe. When he had got clear of the city, he mounted his
fon upon a forry horfe, and led the bridle himfelf on foot on the
Mutterah road. True it is, that “ the wife man does that without
“ noife, which a vail army cannot effeCt.” In the morning, the
guards not feeing him prefent himfelf as was cullomary, were alarmed,
and gave intelligence to Folaud Khan, who entering the bedchamber,
awaked the Have who occupied the place of Sewajee. He faid,
that he had been ordered to lie on his bed, which he had done lince
evening, but could give no farther account. The cutwal carried the
Have and feveral other perfons bound to his majelty; who ordered a
ftri£t fearch to be made, and proclamations to be ilfued in every
diltridt of the empire, defcribing Sewajee, and ordering him to be

feized,

AURUNGZEBE's OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

J 6

feized, but all in vain. Terbeut Roy, the fuperintendant of the
fpies, was difgraced for not having given information of the ftrata-
gem ; and Ram Sing, who had requefted the recall of his people
from the guard over Sewajee, was fufpeded of a connivance, and
banifhed the court. The Mirza Raja was ordered to leave Dekkan,
as foon as relieved by the prince Mahummud Mauzim and the
Maharaja Jeffwunt Sing.

Sewajee having arrived at Mutterah, fhaved his beard, mufta-
chios, and long fide locks, to difguife himfelf. Committing his fon
to the charge of a bramin, who lay under many obligations to him,
with a promife of great rewards if he fhould conduct him in fafety
to Dekkan. He for the prefent gave him fome jewels and gold
mhors for his expenfes. He then travelled as a pilgrim from Mut-
terah, by the route of Aleabad and Benaras to Geiar ; from whence,
after meeting two officers whom he had fent on before, he travelled,
accompanied by them, to Cuttac. Here, being much fatigued, he
ventured to buy a forry horfe ; but, not having filver ready to pay
for it, unguardedly opened a purfe of gold. The news of his
efcape having reached this city, the owner of the horfe, who was
fufpicious at feeing a perfon in the drefs of a beggar with fo much
money, faid, “ Surely you muft be Sewajee in difguife, as you offer
“ fuch a fum for a forry horfe.” Sewajee made no reply, but gave
him the purfe, and departed with all poffible fpeed to Jaggernaut ;
from whence, after performing the cuftomary worfhip, he travelled
through Hyderabad to his own country. The bramin of Mutterah,
putting a girl’s drefs on Sewajee’s fon, then a boy with long fine
hair, and taking his wife in company, called him his daughter, and
brought him in fafety into Dekkan to his father; who rewarded
him fo generoufly, that he was ever after independant of the world.

The Mirza Raja having fent Dilleer Khan to colled: the tributes
of the zemindars of Chandna and Deogur, retired to pafs the rains

AURUNGZEBE's operations in DEKKAN. - 17

at Aurungabad, until the arrival of the prince to relieve him in the
government ; and about this time the emperor difapproved of feveral
promotions he had made of the Dekkan amras, who had come
over to the imperial fervice by his invitation from Beejapore, the
efcape of Sewajee having rendered his loyalty fufpe&ed by Aurung-
zebe.

The prince Mahummud Mauzim and Maharaja Jeffwunt Sing A. H. 1077.
advancing near, the publick officers of Dekkan went to meet the A* D* l666‘
prince as far as the pafs of Ferdapore, and the Mirza Raja to
Bullumreh, where he was honoured with an audience. On their
arrival at Aurungabad, fome days paffed in entertainments } when
the Mirza Raja, having taken leave, departed for court, but died
on the road, foon after his arrival at Boorahanpore, and left a world
in forrow for his lofs. There never was a prince among the Raaje-
pootes equal to him in accompliffiments. In pleafing manners, he
was unparalleled j in valour, fecond to no one \ and his generofity
reminded men of a Hatim Tai. He was completely learned in Hin-
dooeh, and underftood the Turkiffi, Perfic, and Arabic languages.

“ He will never wholly die, who leaves behind him a good name.”

When the raja was declared paft recovery, Deeraaje, his moonffiee
and manager of affairs, apprehending his deftrudtion from the Raaje-
pootes, to fave himfelf from their jealoufy took refuge with Daood
Khan Koreiffiee, foubahdar of Boorahanpore, and became a mufful-
maun. On this account the Raajepootes were ftrongly fufpicious
that he had poifoned the raja, and his fon Keerut Sing wiffied
much to force him from Daood Khan to put him to a difgraceful
death j but not finding an opportunity, after the funeral rites of
his father, continued his journey to court.

The emperor recalling Ram Sing, eldeff fon of the Mirza Raja,
who had been forbidden the court fince Sewajee’s efcape, diftin-
Vol. II. _ D guifhed

* A celebrated Arabian chief.

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

guiShed him by the title of raja, and put him in poffeSfion of his
father’s territories.

Sewajee, immediately upon his arrival in Kokun, alfumed royal
titles and Struck coins, detached different bodies to invade the royal
territories, plundered the feaport of Surat, the pergunnah of Kar-
inja, and took moft of the forts which he had delivered up at his
late fubmiflion. Some of the governors died in defence of their
commands, and every day news was brought to the prince of the
lofs of one place or other. Sewajee attacking the fort of Maolee,
which was much in want of fupplies, and every hope of affiftance to
it cut off, was informed by the governor, Munnower Dafs, that he
and his garrifon were Raajepootes, who would facrifice their lives
man by man, rather than give up the place. Sewajee was re-
folved to perfift ; and one night five hundred of his beft troops, well
acquainted with the private paths, marched fuddenly to the fort,
and fixed ladders to the walls, by which they afcended ; but the
garrifon, who were upon the watch day and night, were ready to
receive them, and put a great number to the fword ; upon which
the reft relinquished the attack. Sewajee, upon this failure, raifed
the fiege, and attacked Ouzbuk Khan, the tannadar of Kallean
Beemrah, who, with many of his followers, after a gallant refift-
ance, attained the honour of martyrdom, and the furvivors fled in
a wretched condition to Aurungabad ; but Munnower Dafs kept
poffeflion of the fort, and fent exprefs accounts of the Situation of
affairs to the prince.

Daood Beg Khan Koreifhee was fent to his affiftance, with fup-
plies for the garrifons and after relieving Munnower Dafs, and
throwing in fome fmall quanties of provisions to different forts,
retreated. Sewajee again attacked Maolee, and carried it by an
aSfault, in which the new governor, Aliverdi Khan, was flain. Soon
after this, he poffelfed himfelf of all the newly ceded garrifons, as

alfo

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

alfo of the fort of Aoont, which had long been in the imperial
pofleffibn. Dilleer Khan, having collected a confiderable tribute
from Chandna and Deogur, was ordered to carry the treafure to
Aurungabad, where he had the honour of an audience from the
prince. As Raow Kerrun, the zemindar of Bikkaneer, an ameer
of two thoufand, and foine time kelladaar of Dowlutabad, had
lately been very negle&ful in the imperial affairs, and his ill conduct
had reached the ears of his majefty, his fon, who had quarrelled
with his father, thought this a proper time for revenge, and ob-
tained the grant of the zemindaree of Bikkaneer for himfelf. Raow
Kerrun upon this, grew daily more and more neglectful ; and being
at this period detached with Dilleer Khan, not only refufed to obey
his orders, but as his revenue was flopped, he, for want of money,
made a practice of robbing in the camp with his Raajepootes at
night, and had the audacity to plunder fome villages on the march.
Dilleer Khan having proofs of this, and dreading that, if his info-
lence was unnoticed, he might proceed to excelfes which would
alfo endanger his fame, wrote complaining letters of him to court ;
which were anfwered by orders to put him to death, or confine
him, if he harboured farther evil intentions. The vaqueel of Raow
Bhaow Sing Arrah, having obtained intelligence of this order at
court, wrote it immediately to his mailer at the camp of Dilleer
Khan.

The morning after the receipt of the order, Dilleer Khan, under
pretence of going to hunt, palfed near the tents of Raow Kerrun,
to whom he fent word that much game was furrounded in the toils,
and invited him to come and lhare in the amufement. The Raow,
equally carelefs of every thing, and unmindful of the deceit in-
tended, quickly mounted his elephant, and came out attended by a
few Raajepootes to the Khan j when luckily for him, Raow Bhaow
Sing, who had heard of his going, rode up quickly with his fol-
lowers, and, by drawing his friend from among the Khan’s troops,

D 2 faved

AURUNGZEBE's OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

laved his life. Dilleer Khan was defeated in his defign, and rode
on towards Aurungabad, where the two raows alfo arrived fome
hours after him.

The manners of Dilleer Khan not being agreeable to the prince
or Maharaja Jeffwunt Sing, they detached him for the punifhment
of the enemy towards Zuffirabad Bieder, and the raows, agreeably,
to the prince’s orders, remained at Aurungabad.

A. H. 1078. Sewajee now entertaining defigns of fubduing the countries de-
A. D. 1667. pendant on Beejapore, and wanting to fupply his garrifons with
provifions, which he could not eafily do while invaded, wrote to
the Maharaja, that had not the emperor flighted his fervices, he
had intended to offer them againfl: Candahar j that he had made his
efcape only through fear of his life, but now, (his patron, the
Mirza Raja, being dead) if, by his interceflion, Jeffwunt Sing
could procure a pardon for his late offences, he would fend his fon
Suntah to the prince, that he might be promoted to a munfub, and
ferve wherever there was occafion. He wrote alfo in this humble
manner to the prince 5 who, as well as the Maharajah, applied to
court in his favour, and their requefls met with the royal com-
pliance.

Sewajee upon this, difpatched his fon Suntah to Aurungabad,
under the care of Pertaub Sing, a principal chief, efcorted by a
thoufand horfe ; and, after an audience of the prince, he was
honoured by the munfub of five thoufand, a prefent of an elephant,
and arms fet with jewels, as alfo a jaghire in the province of Berar,
to which he detached one half of his force, and kept the other
attendant on his perfon. After fome time, Sewajee requefted that
his fon might be fent home, as he was then a child, promifing that
he fhould be difpatched to court, when of age to a£t in the royal
fervice. This was complied with, and a party of the Maharaja’s
- troops

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

troops efcorted him to his father, while Pertaub Sing remained at
the prince’s court. SufFeh Khan Bukhfhi of Dekkan laid before his
majefty a lift of the munfubdaurs created by the ameer al amra, the
Maharajah, and the Mirza Raja Jey Sing. Many were difplaced, but
fome deigned to accept of inferior ranks, and others were reftored at
the requeft of the prince. The reft went over to the fervice of
Sewajee, who gladly received them.

When intelligence of this defertion reached Aurungzebe, and it
appeared that Suffeh Khan had much opprefled the munfubdaurs of
Dekkan, among whom were fome old fervants of the throne, he
was much difpleafed, and this nobleman was ordered to the prefence.
He had alfo confifcated the receipts of fome parts of Suntah’s jag-
hire, as a payment of the lack of rupees Sewajee had received from
the treafury on his going to court. This circumftance being made
known to Sewajee, who had now conquered much of the Beeja-
pore country, and amply fupplied all his forts with provifions, he
recalled Pertaub Sing from Aurungabad, who left it immediately,
and the other part of his force in the jaghires plundered the diftridts,
and went off in fpite of a force which was fent in purfuit, but could
not overtake them.

Sewajee, during this truce, punifhed a whole tribe with death,
who had rebelled againft his father Sahjee in Mudkul, and de-
livered him up to the refentment of the Beejapore government,
by which he was condemned to be buried alive for withholding the
revenues of Tanjore, but faved at the interceflion of Rundowlah
Khan, the minifter of Ali Adil Shaw. Sahjee, penetrated with
gratitude for this fervice, being fet at liberty and reinftated in his
employments, vifited his fon. Sewajee, notwithstanding his remon-r
ftrances, ran ten miles on foot by the fide of his palanquin ; and
on his alighting at his palace feated him on the mufnud j while he
himfelf took his flippers, and flood among the menial attendants.

Sahjee

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

Salijee fpent two months with his fon and firfl wife, in mutual
interchanges of affedion. Sewajee on this occafion obtained the
deferved applaufe of all mankind, for his conduct to a parent, who
had hitherto, from his birth, fhewn him no marks of affedion, but
rather treated him as an alien of the family. Sahjee, after this
viiit, joined his patron Rundowlah Khan, in reducing the refrac-
tory zemindar of Sonedeh Bidenore at which place he died, by a
fall from his horfe in hunting. A fplendid maufoleum was ereded
to his memory.

Sewajee obliged the fultan of Beejapore to pay him a tribute
of three, and the king of Golconda the fum of four, lacks of pago-
das. He had now formed a confiderable fleet, with which he
infefled the coafts, and blocked up Dunda Rajapore, held by the
Siddees, who aded as admirals of the few Blips of Aurungzebe, to
proted the trade of Surat and the coafts, for which they enjoyed
large penflons.

About this time a favourite eunuch belonging to Ali Adil Shaw
of Beejapore, being difgufted at his fovereign, came over to the
prince at Aurungabad. Adil Shaw wrote repeated requefts that he
fhould be fent back, agreeing, in cafe of compliance, to give up
the fort of Sholapore, and make a valuable offering. The prince
fending intelligence of this to court, his majefty ordered that Geaus
ad Dien Khan fhould go to Beejapore, to determine and colled the
offering, and Eeruch Khan be appointed to the government of Sho-
lapore, after which the eunuch fhould be fent back. This was
accordingly done. This year the prince’s mother came to Dekkan
on a vifit to her fon, by the emperor’s orders, to advife him to
continue firm in his allegiance 5 fome fufpicions having arifen that
he meditated independance.

Dilleer

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

Dilleer Khan, who had marched again!! the Mharattas, pur- A. H. 1079,
fued them as far as Batterree, when an order of recall arrived, A.D. 1668.
commanding him to repair to Aurungabad ; but on account of his
difagreement with the Maharaja, he was apprehenlive for his fafety,
and delayed. This being reprefented in a heinous light, he was
accufed of rebellion to the emperor, who difpatched Iftikhar Khan,
by pod; diages, to enquire into the caufe of his not vifiting the
prince ; and if, on examination, it Ihould appear to be rebellion, to
bring him by force, and adt as circumftances might require, even to
the putting him to death, if judged neceffary. Multuffut Khan,
brother to Iftikhar Khan, incited by friendfhip to Dilleer Khan,
wrote him advice to be wary how he Ihould vifit the prince ; which
encreafed the apprehenfions he had before entertained of treachery.

Iftikhar Khan being arrived at Aurungabad, wrote to Dilleer
Khan, that his refufal to vifit the prince having been reprefented to
the emperor, he was difpatched exprefs to enquire the caufe ; there-
fore, it would be proper that he Ihould march nearer to the city,
in order to give him an opportunity of examination. Dilleer Khan
having encamped within three cofs of Aurungabad, was vidted by
Iftikhar Khan, who gave him much encouragement and alfurances
of fafety. Dilleer Khan in reply told him he apprehended treachery ;
upon which the other took an oath that there was none intended ;
when the Khan fhowed him his brother’s letter, which being
original, left him without doubt of the Maharaja’s deceit. It was
now judged advifeable that Dilleer Khan, under pretence of illnefs,

Ihould continue his operations without vifiting the prince. He ac-
cordingly moved with his troops in fearch of the enemy, and Iftikhar
fent the account of his brother’s information to court. The prince
and Maharaja now wrote, that Dilleer Khan had drawa his head
from the collar of obedience 3 and extending the hand of rapine
wherever he went, his Afghauns plundered the country. This news
was put into all the papers of Dekkan; and Dilleer Khan, not

thinking

24 AURUNGZEBE's OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

thinking it fa fe to remain, marched with intentions to proceed to
court ; upon which the prince wrote again to the prefence, that he
was going with evil defigns, and a firmaun came not to permit him ;
when the prince began to levy troops to oppofe his paffage.

A. H. 1080.
A. D. 1669.

The prince having collected about fixty thoufand horfe, in the
height of the rains marched from Aurungabad to punifh Dilleer
Khan ; who, all his people included, had not more than five thou-
fand. The prince alfo induced Sewajee to join him by promifes of
favour, and encamped about fifteen cofs from Boorahanpore, and
three from the ferry of Hanuck, over the river Taptee, intending to
crofs and proceed to the city of which Daood Khan was foubahdar.

Orders were fent to procure boats for the paffage of the army,
when Daood Khan reprefented, that Dilleer Khan was then fixty
cofs diftant, and had not crofied the river ; that to procure boats at
fo fhort a warning was impoflible, but that in the time which mull
be expended, if the prince waited for them, he might effectually
finifh the expedition. The prince replied, that he did not chufe
to march fuch a diftance through bad roads ; befides, if Dilleer
Khan fhould crofs the river before him, the trouble would be
thrown away; he therefore thought it belt to proceed with the
army to Boorahanpore, and, by waiting there, to effectually block
up the road. Daood Khan fufpeCting, from this determination,
that a rebellion was on foot, and having informed Raow Bhaow
Sing of his conjectures, agreed with him, that if the prince fhould
attempt to crofs the river, they would oppofe him. The prince and
Maharaja Jeffwunt Sing perceiving Daood Khan’s alarms, attempted
to lure him to an interview, with defign to make him a prifoner;
but he, being experienced, did not throw himfelf into their fnares.
Dilleer Khan reprefented to the prefence, that the prince and Maha-
raja, entertaining rebellious defigns, had falfely accufed him of dis-
affection, merely to have a pretence for levying troops ; upon which

the

AURUNGZEEE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN. 25

. 1 *

the emperor ordered Kokultafh Bahadur Khan, foubahdar of
Guzarat, to proceed with Koottub ad Dien Khan and the troops
under him to Oogein, beyond which he fhould not allow the prince
to pafs. A fecond order foon after arrived for him to take Dilleer
Khan with him when he returned to Guzarat. Meer Houfleinee
was fent from the prefence with two firmauns ; the firft of which
was directed to Dilleer Khan, ordering him to Bahadur Khan’s camp j
and the fecond to the prince and Maharaja, commanding them to
return to Aurungabad. The imperial commands were immediately
obeyed, as the Maharaja, who had tempted the prince to dilloyalty
was afraid, and the prince did not chufe to aft: with open difrefpedt
to his father. Soon after this, Sewajee again plundered the town of
Surat, and the prince fent orders to Daood Khan to intercept his
retreat.

Daood Khan, having paid his compliments to the prince, de- A.H. io8r.
parted in purfuit of Sewajee, and foon had intelligence, that after A. D. 1670.
plundering Surat, he had laid wafte the country in the vicinity of
the fort of Aurung, named alfo Multeher, which he was watching
for an opportunity to furprize. Meffengers foon after this brought
intelligence that Sewajee, hearing of the approach of the royal
army, had paffed by this fort, and was haftening to gain the pafs '
of Kunchenah Munchenah ; upon which Daood Khan marched im-
mediately for Chandour, which lay in that road, and Bakee Khan,
who had been obliged to retire into the fort from this town, on
account of the preffure of the enemy, came to viiit him. About
midnight the fpies brought word, that Sewajee had gone through
the pafs of Kunchenah Munchenah, from whence he had taken the
road to Goolfhunabad ; leaving a force in the pafs to protedt thofe
who had fallen in the rear from fatigue and other caufes. It was
full moon, and Daood immediately marched in purfuit, with fuch
hafte, that the little baggage he had fell behind ; and towards
morning, it growing dark, part of the troops miftook the road,

Vol. II. E and

26 AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKICAN.

and feparated from the reft. Akhlaafs Khan, who commanded the
advanced guard, having gained an eminence, at daylight defcried a
body of the Mharattas j upon which he ordered his people to pre-
pare ; but, before they were ready, he, from the rafhnefs of youth,
with a fmall number, charged the enemy, who were not lefs than
eleven thoufand horfe, but paid dear for his impatience, and was
feverely wounded. When Daood Khan came to the height, and
beheld the imprudence -of Akhlaafs Khan, he detached a reinforce-
ment, and haftened to a ruined village, where leaving the elephant
flags and drum bearers, who were tired, under Ibrahim Khan
Punnee, with inftru&ions to keep with him the rear and baggage
as they came up, he proceeded. The advanced troops foon en-
gaged with the enemy, and at firft many of the imperial officers
were wounded ; but at length, Roy Muckrind and Bhaun Peroheet
drove them off with the cannon, and Daood Khan arriving, after
taking up Akhlaafs Khan from the ground, purfued them, when a
warm action enfued, in which many of the royal troops fell. The
Mharattas, according to their cuftom, attacked on all quarters, but
great numbers of them being killed by the cannon fhot, the reft fled
in confufion. Daood Khan had not with him at this time more
than a thoufand horfe ; and though the enemy made a fecond
attack towards nightfall, he conducted himfelf fo gallantly as again
to defeat them ; after which he ordered up the baggage, and took
proper care of the wounded officers and men. The next day, he
marched to Goolfhunabad, and fent the wounded on to Aurungabad.
Certain news arriving of the Mharattas having retreated to Kokun,
he halted about a month; after which he moved the camp to
Ahmednuggur, where he received letters from his fon Hummeed
ad Dien Khan, his deputy in the government of Boorahanpore,
that the Mharattas with a very large force meditated an attack upon
the city, which he was preparing to defend, but ample and fpeedy
affiftance was neceffary. Daood Khan moved inftantly ; and on
hearing that the enemy had plundered Bahadurpore, within two

miles

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

miles of the city , redoubled his ipeed j but on his arrival at Fer-
dapore intelligence was brought him, that they had retreated to-
wards Buggellana, upon which he altered his route to purfue. The
enemy plundered the town of Multeher, under the fort of Aurun-
ghur, and then befieged Sultanghur, commonly named Salheer.

Daood Khan arrived at Multeher about eight o’clock at night,
after a forced march, but the baggage did not come up, nor alfo
a great number of the fepoys, until the next day. Here he left
the baggage, and the next morning, before funrife, moved to the
relief of Salheer ; but before he had advanced far, hearing that it
had been taken, he returned, and halted fome days ; after which,
fecuring his baggage at the pafs of Kunchenah Munchenah, he pre-
pared to follow the enemy with Ipeed, who were plundering on all
quarters. Meer Syed at the fort of Tippehghur in Berar, hearing
of a body of the enemy collected in the neighbourhood, marched
upon them in the night, and put feven hundred to the fword. At
this time, the emperor being much difpleafed at the ill conduct
of the Maharaja Jeffwunt Sing, in exciting enmity between the
prince and Dilleer Khan, recalled him from Dekkan, and ordered
him to Guzarat, fending in his room Lohralp Mahabut Khan, fon
of the celebrated Mahabut Khan Jehaungeeree. This ameer, after
the death of his late majefty, left off beating the nobut as ufual,
only at twelve o’clock at night and at daybreak he founded it a
ftiort time, merely out of cool refpedt to the reigning monarch j but
during the time of marching, when it was not cuftomary, from fet-
ting out until his arrival at the ground, his elephant drums never
ceafed, and at every two miles one loud beat of the nobut was
founded. When he alighted, a general difcharge of the artillery
was given. This difpleafing Aurungzebe, he was recalled from the
government of Cabul to the prefence, and fhortly after ordered to
command the army in Dekkan. He had three thoufand houfe-
hold troops, his own dependants. Daood Khan being appointed

E 2 his

23 AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

his fecond, was difgufted, and requeued to be recalled. Mahabut,
after paying his refpefts to the prince at Aurungabad, joined the
army at Chandour, where he was vifited by Daood Khan, who,
though an ameer of five thoufand, was not treated by him with
much attention; which encreafed that nobleman’s difguft, and
raifed it into enmity ; but as the imperial affairs were in queftion,
and dependant on their agreement, he did not chufe to fhew it
openly.

f ...

It was determined that, prior to engaging in other fervice, the
fort of Aoont, which Sewajee had reduced, fhould be retaken.
Accordingly, Mahabut Khan carried on his approaches on one fide,
and Daood Khan on others, fo as to form a blockade. The bat-
teries played for a whole month, when a breach being made on the
fide of Mahabut Khan, the befieged, terrified at the dangers of a
ftorm, applied to Daood Khan, who let them pafs from the fort
through his entrenchments, and fending his own men, took poffef-
fion of the place. Mahabut Khan, as this was done without his
knowledge, was much offended, and their mutual hatred grew to
the greatefl pitch. The fort being properly garrifoned, the army
marched to Ahmednuggur, and then cantoned for the rainy feafon
in the pergunnah of Balneer ; but Daood Khan, agreeably to his
petition, was recalled to the prefence.

A. H. 1082. Mahabut Khan, during the months of the rains, fpent his time
A. D. 1671. in a continual round of feftivity, giving no attention to publick
affairs or the punifhment of the enemy ; and the army was cor-
rupted by his luxury and indolent example. He had brought in his
train to Dekkan, four hundred dancing girls, drolls, and mimics
of Cabul and Lahore, who were daily rewarded by prefents and
favours. It at laft reached the emperor’s ear, that Mahabut Khan
was in fecret combination with Sewajee, whom he did not pufh to
fuch extremities, nor punifh, as he had it in his power to do.

Upon«

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

I %

Upon this, he was recalled to court, and Kokultafh Khan ap-
pointed in his head, who, with Dilleer Khan Afghaun, Koottub
ad Dien Khan, and others, coming from Guzarat, agreeably to the
imperial ' orders, immediately befieged the fort of Sultanghur, de-
taching for this purpofe Akhlaafs Khan Meana, Raow Amir Sing
Chunderaowt, with their own and other troops. Kokultafh Khan
marched to within fix cofs of Ahmednuggur to meet Mahabut
Khan, who after the interview departed for court. Intelligence
now arrived, that the enemy had attacked Akhlaafs Khan, who,
with Mohukkum Sing, fon of Raow Amir Sing Chunderaowt,
being badly wounded, were taken prifoners. The raow himfelf,
with many others, falling in the adtion, the royal forces were de-
feated, and all the baggage fell into the hands of the vidtors.
Bahadur Khan, upon this, marched day and night to overtake
them, but upon his arrival at Noleher in Buggellana, learned that
they had fafely retreated to Kokun with all their plunder.

A body of Afghauns in the fervice of Dilleer Khan having
committed great irregularities, and killed a traveller, Bahadur Khan
endeavoured to bring the murderers to punifhment, but they could
not be apprehended, as they always fkreened each other ; upon
which Bahadur Khan, by way of example, to deter them for the
future, drew out his artillery ; but they, difregarding this, began
to throw rockets, when he ordered the cannon to fire, and abont fix
hundred of the Afghauns were in an inftant laid dead on the plain.
The prince Mahummud Mauzim was recalled from the govern-
ment of Dekkan, and Bahadur Khan appointed to fucceed him.
Namdaur Khan, the fon of Jaffier Khan, was entrufted with the
caie ol the country of Buggellana. Jadoo Terrai Dekkannee and
Seedee Hullall Khan were difpatched to protect Goolfhunabad and
prevent the Mharattas from entering the country on that quarter.

The

3°

AURUNGZEBE's operations in dekkan.

The prince Mahummud Mauzim having fhewn great favour to,
and having an affectionate regard for, Mohin Sing, fon of Raow
Kerrun, on this account he was much envied by the prince’s fer-
vants, who were daily feeking for an opportunity to difgrace him.
It happened that a tame deer, belonging to Mahummud Shaw, the
meer tozuk, efcaping from his keeper, ft rayed into Mohin Sing’s
court, and was brought to him by his fervants. He, not knowing
whofe it was, and feeing it a fine animal, ordered it to be kept.
The next morning, when Mohin Sing was fitting in the hall of
audience with other attendants, before the prince’s entrance, Ma-
hummud Shaw came up to him, and began to cavil. Though
Mohin Sing repeatedly affured him that he would return the deer
as foon as he went home, this did not fatisfy him ; and advancing
to the feat, he exclaimed, “ Send for it here inftantly, or I will
i( not let you rife.” Mohin Sing, upon this, being much en-
raged, clapping his hand to his fabre, got up quickly, and a ren-
contre enfued, in which they each received feveral wounds. At
length, fome of the prince’s fervants ruftied together on Mohin
Sing, who, being weak from lofs of blood, leaned againft a pillar
of the hall, when an armourbearer gave him another wound on the
head, and he fainted away on the ground ; but his fervants now
gathered round him, and prevented his receiving further hurt.
Puddum Sing, his elder brother, who was fitting in another part
of the *hall, hearing of his being wounded, now ran up, and with
one ftroke of his fabre finifhed Mahummud Shaw ; upon which the
prince’s fervants ran confufedly out of the balcony, and others threw
themfelves headlong into the area. Puddum Sing flood over the
body of Mahummud Shaw, refolved to kill any one who fhould
attempt to take it away ; when a number of Raajepootes, belong-
ing to him and his brother, entered the hall with a palanquin, into
which they put Mohin Sing, not yet dead, and were advanced on
the way out as far as the ftation of the rocket men, when the prince
entered the hall, but, feeing all in confufion, inftantly retired, and

ordered

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEK.KAN.

ordered ffcridt fearch to be .made for the murderer of Mohin Sing,
but his domeftics concealed him. Puddum Sing, fufpe&ing that
the prince might be difpleafed and order him to be apprehended,
refolved to die in that cafe on the fpot, and therefore continued
Handing, until raja Roy Sing. Sefodia, an ameer of five thoufand,
came and carried him in fafet y to Mohin Sing’s houfe.

Mohin Sing breathed his laft on the road home, and his women
burned themfelves alive with the corpfe. The prince was much
affe&ed with grief; but, though he made much enquiry, never
could find out the murderer.

Sewajee at this time, having made a peace with the king of
Hyderabad, and received promifes and aflurances to his perfect
fatisfadlion, went to vifit him. Adna Pundit, the king’s minifter,
though a man of great policy and cunning, and a rival of Sewajee
in intrigue, was deceived by his fuperior art. It was agreed that,
joining forces, they fhould march againft the Beejapore fultan, and
divide what country they might conquer between them, and after-
wards expel the Moguls from Dekkan. Their firft operation was
planned againft Tanjawer, a zemindaree belonging to Angojee,
Sewajee’s half brother, tributary to Beejapore.

Sewajee accordingly, having received a great fum of money
and large reinforcements of troops from Hyderabad, marched for
Tanjawer, and wrote to Angojee to come and meet him. Angojee,
not dreaming of his brother’s treachery, came from Tanjawer to
Jinjee, agreeably to his requeft ; and they had an interview, at
which Sewajee demanded the treafures which their father Sahjee,
he faid, had left to him. Angojee, now feeing no way for efcape
but by chicane, humbly told his brother, that the fort of Tan-
jawer, the country, and every thing he had, was at his fervice ;
which declaration fatisfied Sewajee, who fuppofed he had his brother

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

In his power, and that he could get from him what he pleafed ; but
for once he was deceived. Angojee having returned to his tents,
fled the fame night, with a few confidential fervants, for Tanjawer,
where he arrived in twenty hours from Jinjee, which is diftant one
hundred and twenty miles from that fort. Sewajee upon this
plundered his brother’s camp ; and having gotten pofleflion of Jinjee
by treachery, as alfo of fome other forts belonging to Beejapore and
Hyderabad, into which he put his own garrifons, retreated, and then
fent back the Hyderabad troops to their own country. Bahadur
Khan hearing of the meeting between Sewajee and the king of
Hyderabad, marched into his territories ; and having exacted the
payment of a large fum of money as a fine, returned to Ahmed-
nuggur where he remained fome time, and then encamped for the
rains at the great tank of Ferrah Baug. Akhlaafs Khan Meana,
Mohukkum Sing, and others who had been wounded and taken
prifoners at Sultanghur, being now releafed, joined the camp at
Ahmednuggur; and having paid their refpedts to Bahadur Khan,
were re-eftablifhed in their different ranks. Jadoo Terrai Dekkan-
nee and Seedee Hullall, who had been fent for the protection of
Goolfhunabad, having been reprimanded harfhly by Bahadur Khan
on the Mharattas entering their neighbourhood, in refentment,
deferted to Sewajee’s army. As the Mharattas had invaded the
imperial territories, Bahadur Khan marched from Ahmednuggur,
and, leaving moft of his baggage in the fort of Candahar, ad-
vanced with all fpeed in purfuit of the enemy to the fort of Ram-
geer, where he learned that they had left that place two days
before, after plundering the town and carrying away fome of the
wives of the inhabitants prifoners. The khan, arriving in the
vicinity of Hyderabad, plundered and laid wafle fome places, at the
inftigation of Dilleer Khan. Intelligence was brought, that the
enemy, who had been at Ramgeer, were now divided into two
bodies, one of which had pafled on the borders of the Hyderabad
territories into their own country, and the other near Terk Chandeh

were

AURUNGZEBF& OPERATIONS IN DEfCKAN.

were plundering the imperial pofieffions, Bahadur Khan difpatched
Dilleer Khan, Koottub ad Dien Khan, and other chiefs, after the
enemy, who had retreated homewards, and marched in purfuit of
the other body himfelf^ fending Bakee Khan and Futtaeh Khan
with the artillery and baggage to Aurungabad. He came up with
and engaged the enemy at a pafs near the fort of Antour. Raja
Shujaun Sing Bondela, and his brother Inder Mun, with the Mogul
cavalry, formed the advanced guard. The enemy Rood firm for
fome time, till Soopkerrun Bondela charged the grand body in con-
junction with the troops of Balcheram j when, after a fhort druggie,
they fled, and the royal army purfuing them till night, took much
fpoil and many horfes, which had been feized from merchants, to
whom they were mofily redored. Bahadur Khan marched the
next day through the pafs of Antour, and the day after refolved ta
reach Aurungabad, which was fixteen cofs didant. A few officers,
who had rode on before, fell in with fome thoufands of the enemy,
and defended themfelves on an eminence till the army came up,
when they fled, and Soopkerrun Bondela purfued them for fome
cofs, and killed above four hundred, taking much plunder : his fbn
Raow Dulput was wounded. The next day Bahadur Khan arrived
with the army at Aurungabad, and encamped fome time in the
neighbourhood of that city. He conferred prefents of horfes and
arms on his gallant officers, and, in return for their fervices, re-
commended them to his majefty for promotion to higher rank. He
next marched from Aurungabad to Satterah Batterah, thirty cofs
diftant, where he encamped. Dilleer Khan, with his detachment,
had purfued the enemy as far as the fort of Merrooje in Beejapore,
when he returned with much plunder taken from them. As the
Mharattas had for the two lafl fpring harvefts made incurfions into
Khandefhe through the hills of Ballaghaut, Bahadur Khan caufed
redoubts to be ereCted in each pafs, and artillery, with proper
guards, to be Rationed in them. Accordingly, they were built at
the following places; Ferdapore, Loondapore, Mulkapore, Kufio-
Vol. II, F ree.

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

ree, Raujdehr, Laknehwara, Deogam, Rajorah, Dilleerpore, and
three or four other places.

This year died Koottub al Moolk, fultan of Hyderabad ; and,
leaving behind him no male children, was fucceeded by Abou
HoufTun, who had married his eldeft daughter ; a perfon of a moil
debauched character ; but, to the furprize of all, upon his acceffion
to the throne he threw off every bad habit, and became both an
excellent man and prince. According to cuftom, he fent am-
balfadors to the imperial court with proper offerings, which were
received, and a gracious firmaun returned in anfwer.

Mahabut Khan, on his arrival at court from Dekkan, was ap-
pointed a fecond time to the government of Cabul ; but again
dilplaced in a fhort time after, and died on the road in his way
to the prefence. He was a chief poffefied of true nobility, and a -
great encourager of brave foldiers, of whom he had always a fine
houfehold body. He had a reliance on the Raajepootes, in pre-
ference to the Moguls, Shekhs, or Afghauns ; and, when in Dek-
kan, had about a thoufand of the former with him, to whofe
charge he always trufted the guard of his haram and fleeping apart-
ments. Bahadur Khan bellowed a munfub and other honours on
Beejajee Naick, a capital zemindar of Dekkan, whofe fon had
married Sewajee’s daughter, and was a chief of great gallantry
and reputation.

A. H. 1083-4. Bahadur Khan, learning that the Mharattas were collecting in
A. D. 1672-3. the neighbourhood of Poonah, left his baggage at Chummar Koon-
dah, and by forced marches came up with and gave them a fignal
defeat, in which Soopkerrun Bondela behaved with particular gal-
lantry. He then moved to Burra gaum, twenty cofs diftant from
Ahmednuggur, on the banks of the Beemrah, a river feparating
the Hyderabad territories from thofe of Beejapore, and which has

its

AURUNG ZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

its fource from the mountains of Kokun at a place called Bhamean
Sunkree, near the fort of Loeghur. Here Bahadur, to perpetuate
his memory, built a fort and ereCted a magnificent palace, which
he called Bahadur Ghur. Dulput Roy Bondela was promoted
to the rank of three hundred, and the fons of Bahadur Khan,
Mirza Houffun and Mirza Mhouflun, were honoured with the
titles of khan. Inder Mun Bondela was appointed to command
the ftatioH of Goolfhunabad. Sutterfal, the ion of Chumput Bon-
dela, difgufted at not finding promotion, and being in diftrefted
circumftances, went over to Sewajee j but, as he placed little con-
fidence in the people of Hindooftan, after fhewing him fome civilities^
he gave him his difmifiion ; upon which, finding himfelf without
refource, he returned to his own country, where, collecting his
dependants, he raifed a rebellion, and pofiefTed himfelf of great
part of the zemindaree.

About this time died Ali Adil Shaw, king of Beejapore, whofe
anceftors were defendants of the emperors of Turky. EufufF, a
prince of the Ottoman family, was entrufted by his mother to the
care of a merchant, through fear of the brother, then emperor.
The merchant coming to Damaun brought the young prince with
him, and from thence travelled to Dekkan, where, fortune be-
friending his charge, he founded the kingdom of Beejapore, ftiling
himfelf Eufuff Adil Shaw, and ereCted the citadel of Beejapore,
which bears his name. Ali was fucceeded by his fon Sec under, an
infant. Khouafs Khan Hubfhee, a favourite of his father’s, was
entrufted with his education and the command of the fort. Abd al
Kerreem Meana, the fon of Abd al Raheem, fon of Belole Khan,
(who, in the reign of the late emperor Shaw Jehaun, had followed
the fortunes of Khan Jehaun Lodi, and efcaped with him from
Agra, upon his death entering firft into the fervice of the king of
Hyderabad, and afterwards of the Beejapore prince, who raifed him
to high rank) commanded the minor king’s armies.

F 2

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

A. H. 1085. On the death of Ali Adil Shaw, Sewajee, intending to reduce

A. D. 1674. ^ and marry his fon Sambah to the daughter of Ruftum

Raow, with royal fplendour and magnificence, in order to divert
from him the imperial arms, that he might be at liberty to exe-
cute his defigns, began to intrigue for that purpofe. He difmified •
Jadoo Terrai and Hullall Khan, who had deferted to him from the
imperial army, telling them he could not keep them, as he now
meant to afk for peace. Thefe chiefs having at the interceifion of
Soopkerrun Bondela been pardoned by Bahadur Khan, returned to
his camp. Sewajee now fent deputies, with prefents of an ele-
phant and many rarities, to Bahadur Khan, requefting a truce, till
through his intereft forgivenefs of his crimes from the emperor
could be ratified ; upon the arrival of which, if the Khan would
fend his eldeil fon to conduct him, he would fubmit to his clemency.
Bahadur Khan, not aware of his intriguing craft, confented to a
truce, and immediately fent off an exprefs to the emperor, then at
Houlfun Abdal on the borders of Cabul, which arrived at court in
thirteen days. A firmaun was ifliied in reply, that he ihould be
cautious not to be deceived by the Mharatta, and before he formed
any treaty, fend Mallek Berkhordar, who knew the artifice of
Sewajee, with fome confidential fervants of his own, to found his
fecret defigns, which he fhould, when explored, communicate to
the emperor, who would then give further orders.

Bahadur Khan, upon the arrival of the firmaun, difpatched
Mahummud Saad Khan and Gongaram Guzaratee, confidants of
his own, with Mallek Berkhordar, to amufe Sewajee. This crafty
politician, who had already found time to effect part of his fchemes
and pofiefs himfelf of the fort of Pernalleh, belonging to Beejapore,
received the deputies at Rairee, and for the firft day treated them
with all cuilomary honours j but the next, gave them a final
anfwer, faying, <e What fuperiority has your mailer gained over
“ me, that I ihould confent to fubmiflion ? Be gone fpeedily from

“ hence.

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN,

c< hence, or you will be difgraced.” Upon hearing this, the
affrighted deputies returned with an account of their reception to
Bahadur Khan, who forwarded it to court. The enjperor, out of
his abundant kindnefs, to confole the mortified khan, promoted him
to the rank of feven thoufand horfe and the title of Khan Jehaun
Bahadur Kokultafh Zuffir Jung ; his elder brother, named Muzzuffir
Houffein, to the title of Azum Khan and rank of fix thoufand %_
and his fons, one to the title of Muzzuffir Khan, and the other, of
Nufferut Khan, with proportionable commands.

Bahadur Khan upon this promotion kept a grand feftival, to
which he invited Namdaur Khan, the fon of Jaffier Khan, from
Buggellana; and gave away among the amras and their followers,
thirty one elephants, above five hundred horfes, two thoufand ele-
gant drefies, befides fwords, armour and other valuable articles.

At this time contentions prevailed between the Dekkanees
and Afghauns of Beejapore. Dunnanut Pundit, who was much in
the confidence of Khouafs Khan, artfully promoted the inveteracy
of the parties, in hopes that he fhould fucceed whatever chief
might be difplaced. He obferved to Khouafs Khan, that the
Afghauns had acquired too much power in the ftate ; that the
prince being a minor, himfelf confined to the fort, and Sewajee
having feized many diffriCts of the kingdom, in this fituation it
would be prudent to implore the protection of the emperor, in
conjunction with his troops to punifh Sewajee, and regain the
ufurped territories ; which effected, he might then eafily expell the
mutinous and rebellious Afghauns.

The Ethiopian approved of his fchemes, and fent his dewan,
Serjam Raow, to Zuffir Jung with offers of friendfhip and alliance,
as alfo an invitation to a conference. Zuffir Jung, upon receiving this
unexpected but welcome overture, propofed that Khouafs Khan

fhould

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEK.KAN,

fhould march from Beejapore to Burrapore on the banks of the
Kifinah, where he would meet him. Accordingly, both parties
moving to the place appointed, magnificent tents were pitched ;
but, as the waters of the Kifinah fuddenly rofe very high, Zufiir
Jung went in boats to the camp of Khouafs Khan, from whence,
after fome converfation, he brought him back with him to his own,
and gave him and all his followers a grand entertainment and rich
prefents. Mutual alliances were entered into, and the daughter of
Khouafs Khan was betrothed to Nufierut Jung, the fecond fon of
Zuffir Jung; after which the two chiefs took leave of each other,
and departed to execute their intended purpofes.

Abd al Kerreem, who had attended Khouafs Khan, was en-
camped at the diftance of twelve miles, and Dunnanut conveyed to
him all the particulars of the interview between Zufiir Jung and his
mafter, infidioufly obferving, that if the Hubfhee fhould make the
fort and kingdom an offering to the emperor Aulumgeer, it would
put an end to Abd al Kerreem’s and his own fortunes,

Abd al Kerreem, who was eager to obtain the regency, de-
termined to take an opportunity of confining Khouafs Khan on the
march to Beejapore; but he being informed of his treachery, left
the camp and baggage at Alingah, forty miles from the city, to
which he departed fuddenly in the night, and thus defeated the
defigns of his enemy. On Abd al Kerreem’s arrival at Beejapore,
a negotiation of reconciliation was fet on foot, and at length Khouafs
Khan, with a few attendants, came out of the citadel to encourage
the Afghauns ; and after the ufual ceremonies of meeting, retired
with Abd al Kerreem only, to confult in a private apartment. On
notice being given that Khizzer Khan Punnee, a principal ameer,
was approaching, Abd al Kerreem left the room, as if to meet him,
but the door was fhut immediately after him, and Khouafs Khan
made a prifoner under a flrong guard. Jumfheed, a Have of Abd

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKJCAN.

al Kerreem’s, got into the fort without oppofition j and foon after
he, with Khizzer Khan, entered, and treating with fhekh Mun-
naje and the other Dekkanees, perfuaded them to march againft
Sewajee, towards the river Kiftnah ; after which he put Khouafs
Khan to death.

Soon after this, Abd al Kerreem difpatched Khizzer Khan
towards the Kiftnah, with inflrudtions to affaffinate fhekh Munnaje.
Khizzer Khan for this purpofe invited him to an entertainment.
The fhekh complied with the invitation, and had left his tents,
when on the road he heard, that Khizzer Khan had placed a num-
ber of armed men in concealment to murder him. The fhekh,
notwithftanding, proceeded, and when Khizzer Khan came to
meet him, alighted and embraced, but flabbed the treacherous
nobleman while he had him in his arms, efcaped, and joined his
troops on the other fide of the river. A fcuffle enfued between the
Afghaun and Dekkanee attendants, in the fquare of the tents, in
which many were flain on both fides,

Shekh Munnaje retired to Adonee, and being joined by Seedec
Mufaood, Syed Mukhdoom, Sheerza Khan, and other Dekkan
lords, made an alliance with Kafil Koor, a principal zemindar, who
had a confiderable force, and it was refolved between them, to
attack Abd al Kerreem and cut him off.

Abd al Kerreem being informed of the union of the Dekkanees,
prepared a confiderable army, and marched to oppofe them ; when
a defperate battle was fought near the fort of Shaw Doneghur,
twelve cofs from Adonee, in which many chiefs were killed on both
fides, and it was doubtful to whom remained the victory. Kafil
Koor, the zemindar, was flain. At night Abd al Kerreem beat
the march of victory, and encamped on the field of battle. The
Dekkanees having in the night conduced their wounded to Adonee,

moft

AURUNGZEBE's operations in dbkkan.

moft of them went over to the king of Hyderabad. Shekh Mun-
naje took up his refidence at Koolburga in his own jaghire, and
Abd al Kerreem, with his force much diminifhed, retired to Bee-
japore, where he put to death Dunnanut Pundit, who had been
the infligator of fuch fatal faction, and feizing all his wealth paid
his troops their arrears with the money ; thus verifying the obfer-
vation, that “ He who digs a pit for another, often falls into it
“ himfelf.”

This year the Mharattas invaded the imperial territories near
Aurungabad, and Khan Jehaun purfuing them, engaged and de-
feated their army near Lafoor, only fourteen cofs from the city j
after which he chafed them as far as the fort of Chumber in Kokun.
At this time came intelligence of the imprifonment and death of
Khouafs Khan, which difappointed Khan Jehaun’s meafures, and
he reprefented the affair to court ; after which he returned to the
cantonments at Bahadur Ghur. Orders came from the emperor,
that he fhould endeavour either to take Abd al Kerreem priibner,
or put him to death, and befiege Beejapore. Dilleer Khan was
again appointed fecond to Khan Jehaun, and departed inflantly on
his nomination from court to Dekkan.

A. H. 1086. Khan Jehaun having made the neceffary preparations for the
A. D. 1675. war againft Beejapore, ordered Iflaam Khan Roomee, (formerly
named Houffein and pafha of Bufforah, who had fought protection
with the emperor fome years fince, and was promoted to the govern-
ment of Malwa) from Aurungabad, the charge of which city was
given to Raow Bhaow Sing, and marched to the banks of the
Beemrah, ten cofs from Sholapore, where he waited for the junction
of his troops.

Abd al Kerreem Khan, having left Beejapore, with a great
army encamped at Abundee, about fix cofs diflant ; upon which,

Khan

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

Khan Jehaun fent the women of his camp, with his own and the
fuperfluous baggage, to Sholapore, and flationing what he meaned
to carry with him on this fide the Beemrah, which was at this
time very high, croffed with the troops, and formed his difpofition
of battle. On this day, Raow Raaje Sing Rhatoree, commanding
the advanced body of the army, who had been long ill, died on the
march. . Shekh Munnaje and fhekh Mahummud Juneedee, having
agreeably to promife arrived from Koolburga, were introduced to
Khan Jehaun by raja Soopkerrun Bondela, and received a prefent
of elephants, horfes, and one lack of rupees. Next day the two
armies prepared for engagement. Koottub ad Dien Khan with
the advance, Iflaam Khan on the right, with the corps of Soopker-
run Bondela, fhekh Munnaje and others, Raow Anoop Sing, Rag-
onaut Sing Mharatta, Bocheraje Cutchwai and others, on the left,
having formed, the battle commenced. The enemy charged
furioufly in front of Iflaam Khan, but his Turks drove them off
twice with great lofs, when their ammunition being expended, Iflaam
Khan ordered up flores, clofe to his elephant, and was fupplying his
men, when a fpark unfortunately lighting among a quantity of car-
tridges, they blew up, killing and wounding a great number ; but
to add to the melancholy event, the khan’s elephant being fright-
ened at the explofion, became ungovernable, and ran into the
enemy’s line, where the khan, his fon, and the driver, with fome
horfe who had followed their leader, were foon cut to pieces ; but
the elephant having received feveral wounds, ran back without his
houdah, which had been cut off his back. The heat of the battle
next fell on Soopkerrun Bondela, who, together with fhekh Mun-
naje and other chiefs, was wounded. The left wing was alfo
engaged, and Raow Kibber Sing Rhatoree, Kerrun Sing, a mun-
fubdar, with Raow Raaje Sing, and the other Raajepootes, after
fighting defperately, were wounded. Great numbers on both fides
fell, and the fwarry elephant of Abd al Kerreem was taken by
Kifhoor Sing Harrah. The battle ceafed on the approach of night,
Vol. II. G without

42 AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

without being decifive on either fide. Khan Jehaun remained on
this fide the river, threw up entrenchments round his camp, and
fortified them with artillery. The Afghauns during the night
made an attack upon the baggage on the other fide of the river,
great part of which they plundered, put numbers to death, and
carried off fuch of the followers of the camp as they chofe ■, fo that,
from this lofs, and the fudden rife of the river, it no longer remained
in the power of the imperial army to oppofe the Afghauns. Koot-
tub ad Dien Khan, with the approbation of Khan Jehaun, formed a
truce } and the army then recroffing the river, fhekh Munnaje was
difpatched to Koolburga, to fecure polfedion if pofhble of that for-
trefs. At this time Dilleer Khan arrived from the prefence, and
the waters of the Beemrah, on account of the rains, Itill continuing
exceedingly high, it was agreed for the prefent, that the fort of
Tulderruk fhould be taken from the fons of Khizzer Khan Punnee,
who refided there. Khan Jehaun accordingly marched, and began
his approaches. Raja Inder Mun Bondela, agreeably to orders,
joined the camp from Goolfhunabad. Mahummud Atta, a fon of
Khan Jehaun’s, being wounded by a cannon fhot, died. Akhlaafs
Khan Meana made an affault on the town belonging to the fort,
and carried it. Abd al Kerreem at the mitigation of the Afghauns
in the royal army, who refpeCted him on account of their connec-
tion by tribe, having moved from Beejapore, eroded the Beemrah
with a conliderable force, to the relief of Tulderruk ; upon which
Khan Jehaun thought proper to raife the liege and march to receive
the enemy. Abd al Kerreem encamped within lix miles of the fort,
and his tents appeared in light of the royal camp. Though the day
was far fpent and twilight approached, yet by the advice of Dilleer
Khan and others, having left Runmull Khan for the protection of
the baggage, a battle commenced. A body of Afghauns from Abd
al Kerreem’s line, and another from the fort, having formed a
junction, charged in the rear of Khan Jehaun’s army, and the
khan having eroded a watercourfe, deep and muddy, with Boche-

raaje

AURUNGZEBE’s operations in dekkan.

raaje Cutchwai and Ragonaut Sing Mharatta, oppofed the enemy.
Bocheraaje was killed fighting gallantly, and the latter, with many
others, was wounded, Koottub ad Dien Khan, charging to their
afiiftance, preferved the wounded from being cut to pieces, Abd
al Kerreem trying to gain the fort during the night, his baggage
was plundered, and Khan Jehaun followed him within cannon fhot
of the walls. After fome days the army encamped at Khaut-
kaloon, eight cofs from Tulderruk. Raow Anoop Sing, at the
requeft of Khan Jehaun, was honoured with the title of raja.
Madna Pundit, minifter to Abou Houfiun, king of Hyderabad, had
joined Abd al Kerreem with troops and money; but feeing that
oppofition could not in the end be made to the imperial army,
retreated to his own country. Abd al Kerreem, after remaining a
month in Tulderruk, returned to Beejapore. Khan Jehaun fent his
dewan Luckeram, to bring over fome Beejapore chiefs, who had
taken refuge at Hyderabad, as alfo the troops of that Rate, to join
him, and marched in purfuit of Abd al Kerreem towards the Beem-
rah. Many Ikirmifhes happened on the route. At Hingeh he
halted, and called together the Dekkanees and exiled Beejaporees,
who had fled to different places. Seedee Mufaood, Sheerza Khan,
and others, joined. Luckeram brought an army from Hyderabad,
and had alfo effedted a truce with Sewajee. Four thoufand horfe,
fent by different imperial fojedaars, and a number of other troops,
joined ; fo that an army was now collected fufficient to reduce
Beejapore.

While affairs were thus fituated, the Afghaun chiefs of the im-
perial army, out of regard to their tribe, privately fent meffages
to Abd al Kerreem, that if this vafl army fhould march to Beeja-
pore, his affairs would be ruined paft redemption; fo that his
only way to avoid the ftorm would be to make propofals of peace
to Khan Jehaun, and come in to vifit him, after which the troops

G 2 would

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

would be difperfed, and he be at liberty to regulate his govern-
ment.

Abd al Kerreem, liftening to this advice, entreated peace of
Khan Jehaun, promifing that if the imperial army fhould move to
the banks of the Beemrah, he would come to meet him; and
requesting that he would fend Akhlaafs Khan to conduct him to an
interview ; after which he would fubmit to any conditions he might
impofe, as he regarded himfelf now as the emperor’s fubjeft.

Khan Jehaun, after deliberating on the difcordant hate of his
army, agreed to his requefts ; and having fent away the auxiliaries
to their different countries, moved from Hingeh, and encamped on
the banks of the Beemrah.

A. H. 1086. Khan Jehaun, agreeably to the requeft of Abd al Kerreem,
A. D. 1676. pent ]^s brother Akhlaafs Khan to meet him, and a few days after-
wards difpatched alfo Koottub ad Dien Khan. A letter arrived
from fhekh Munnaje, that now there was an opportunity, which,
if troops were fent to Alinder, he would feize, of acquiring the
fort of Koolburga. Abd al Kerreem requeuing that Dilleer Khan
might be fent to receive him, Khan Jehaun left him at Angul-
kote, and went himfelf to Alinder, from whence he fent Gon-
garam, his own dewan, with Vizier Beg, fon to Collinder Khan,
the kelladaar of Zuffirabad Bieder, to fhekh Munnaje, who, on
the day of their arrival with him, got admiffion into Koolburga by
treachery, and having confined Nangooroy, the khelladaar, put the
place into their poffeffion, and agreeably to orders returned to Khan
Jehaun. Khan Jehaun, through Runmuft Khan, made promifes
of munfubs and prefents to the fons and dependants of Khizzer
Khan, and fending his own bukhfhi, Alla ad Dien Khan, to them,
they evacuated the fort of Tulderruk, when Zuffirnuggur, com-
monly called Tumnee, was allotted for the refidence of their fami-

' lies.

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKXAN.

lies. After vifiting Tulderruk, and ordering meafures for its fafety,
he returned to camp, and difpatched to court an account of his
operations; which meeting the emperor’s approbation, the fons of
Khan Jehaun were promoted to higher rank ; Muzzuffir Khan to
the title of Himmut Khan Bahadur, and NufTerut Khan to that of
Sippedar Khan. Raja Inder Mun Bondela dying, at the requeft of
Khan Jehaun, his zemindaree and the title of raja were conferred
upon his fon Jelfwunt Sing.

Abd al Kerreem having left Beejapore with Akhlaafs Khan,
and condoled with the fons of Koottub ad Dien Khan, who had,
died on the road, met Dilleer Khan. He encamped about four
cofs from Alinder ; and Khan Jehaun, agreeably to his promifes,
having pitched a mod; fplendid tent, with poles and ornaments of
diver, went in the greateft pomp and magnificence, attended by all
the amras, to receive him. Abd al Kerreem Khan and Dilleer
Khan, with all the Afghauns in their train, advanced, and the
chiefs firft met fitting on their elephants, and, after pafiing mutual
compliments, alighted at the tent ; when Khan Jehaun prefented
Abd al Kerreem with elephants, horfes, and arms, ornaments of
jewels, trays of rich cloths, as alfo the tent, and proper carriages
for its conveyance. After converfation, he difmified him to his
camp, and returned to his own. Mallek Berkhordar, agreeably to
the emperor’s orders, was fent as refident to Beejapore. Abd al
Rufiool Khan was appointed kelladaar of Koolburga, Collinder
Khan of Tulderruk, and Vizier Beg exalted by the title of Jaun
Baz Khan.

Abd al Kerreem Khan and Dilleer Khan being difiatisfied at Khan
Jehaun’s having got polfedion of Tulderruk and Koolburga, agree-
ably to the fchemes they had formed from the inftant of their meet-
ing, wrote petitions to court, fetting forth, that Khan Jehaun had
made private agreements with the king of Hyderabad, the Dekkan-

nees.

AURUNGZEBE’S operations in dekkan.

nees, the king of Beejapore, and Sewajee, and did not a with vigour
in his government 3 but that if he fhould be called to the prefence,
and proper afliftance afforded them, they would bring Hyderabad
into the imperial poffeffion without delay,

Khan Jehaun, with Abd al Kerreem and the united armies,
marched from Alinder to Koolburga, and it was agreed that they
fhould go fhortly againft Hyderabad. They vifited the tomb of the
famous fyed Mahummud Gefoo-derauz, who flourifhed in the reign
of fultan Firoze Bhamenee. It is a very magnificent edifice, covered
with a dome, in the middle of an extenfive court. Many of his de-
fendants repofe near the faint, over whom they have eredted domes.
A number of them ftill refide there ; and during the reigns of the
Dekkan fultans, great fums of money were annually offered to them
in vows and prefents. The kings of Beejapore and Hyderabad, as
alfo the zemindars in the vicinity, every year gave rich prefents, and
many villages were affigned by both kings to defray the expenfes of
the tomb. When it came into the imperial poffeflion, Aurungzebe
alfo fettled fome farms upon it. There is almoft a continual diflen-
tion between the defendants of the faint, who generally come to
blows every year ; and they fpend their time in an affluence and lux-
ury, enjoyed but by few of the firft nobles. There are alfo at Kool-
burga many tombs of the Bhamenee kings of Dekkan. In the
pergunnah of Alinder are the magnificent fepulchres of Ladee Anfa-
ree, the faint’s After, and her children ; and at Boorahannuggur
thofe of many celebrated perfonages.

The emperor, deceived by the petitions before mentioned, re-
called Khan Jehaun from Dekkan, and appointed Dilleer Khan in
his room. Khan Jehaun left Koolburga for court, the fame day that
the firmaun arrived for his recall.

Dilleer

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

Dilleer Khan and Abd al Kerreem marched with the army to
Mulkeh, a fort ten cofs from Koolburga, which being but of little
flrength, the befieged evacuated it in the night, and fled to join the
Dekkanees, who made fuch oppofltion, that the Afghauns durfl
not even dare to look towards Hyderabad. There now fell a con-
tinual rain, and the fcarcity of grain in the camp became exceflive.
Skirmifhes between the two armies occurred for two months toge-
ther daily. Mahummud Beg Khan, commander of the artillery,
Serafrauz Khan Dekkanee and his fons, with many other imperial
officers, were wounded. The other Afghauns who had an enmity
to Runmufl Khan and the fons of Khizzer Khan, for having given
up the fort of Tulderruk, did not ailifl them in the day of battle ;
but, as they had a feledt body of their own, they gallantly flood firm
in the field, were wounded, and great numbers of their followers
killed.

The troops of Abd al Kerreem being diftrefled, deferted in great
numbers ; fo that the tide of ill fortune turned againfl the royal army,
and it became impoffible to remain much longer in the enemy’s
country. Dilleer Khan therefore, on this account, and to pleafe
Abd al Kerreem, for whom he entertained the utmofl friendfhip,
and who had been taken ill, fet on foot a negotiation of truce with
the Dekkanees, and began to retreat towards Koolburga, intending
to leave his fuperfluous baggage there, and after fupplying himlelf
with provifions, to return and attack them.

The firfl day’s march the Dekkanees did not molefl him ; but
on the fecond, looking on the Afghauns as running away, appeared
in great numbers, attacked the baggage, killed hundreds of people,
and acquired an immenfe plunder. The fight continued from day-
light till fun-fet, when the royal army halted at a dry nullah, where
it remained two days in the greateil confufion, being obliged to dig

wells,

48 AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

wells, before the camp could be fupplied with water. Akhlaafs
Khan and RunmuR Khan Punnee commanded the right wing, Abd
al Kerreem the left, Dilleer Khan protected the baggage, and
Soopkerrun Bondela, with Ghierut and Muzzuffir, nephews of
Dilleer Khan, were Rationed in the rear of the whole ; but though
they had above eight thoufand horfe, it was difficult to quit their
Ration. Soopkerrun Bondela, his fon Dulput Roy, and the other
Raajepoote chiefs, having confulted together, reprefented to Dilleer
Khan that it was impoffible to remain here longer, as the army
muR periRi from want of provifions. This advice had a proper
effedt, and the chiefs being all united, for the royal honour, and
their own prefervation, at length marched, but in twelve days
could only move ten cofs, when they arrived at Koolburga. The
Dekkanees, who were full feventy thoufand in number, feldom
ceafed from the attack ; but as the fortune of Aurungzebe attended
the Raajepootes, the enemy did not prevail. The Raajepootes
upon this trying occafion fliewed aRonifliing inRances of valour;
but which to relate would appear as vain boaRing. Mahummud,
the fon of Koottub ad Dien Khan, was killed by a rocket; and
on this march the camp was without grain for fome days, when
the poorer fort were obliged to eat the roots of the plaintain and
date tree, from which numbers were taken ill, and died Riortly
after of diforders in the bowels.

As Abd al Kerreem was fo dangeroufly ill as to be pronoun-
ced paR recovery, Dilleer Khan negotiated a peace between him,
Seedee Mufaood, and the other Dekkan chiefs, bringing them
together for a conference. Mutual civilities and vifits were ex-
changed between the chiefs of both armies, and it was agreed that
Abd al Kerreem Riould deliver up the citadel of Beejapore to See-
dee Mufaood, who Riould then pay off the arrears to all the troops.
Abd al Kerreem foon after died, and Dilleer Khan delivered up his
fon Abd al Raooff for education to Seedee Mufaood, who promifed

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

to let him fucceed his father in the command of the army. The
Dekkanees then returned to Beejapore, where Seedee Mufaood
delayed to pay the arrears of Abd al Kerreem’s troops, and they
offered numberlefs indignities to his fon, who had inherited but
little property from his father. The foldiers proceeded to fuch ex-
tremities and clamour for their pay, as to feize every thing he had,
not excepting even the jewels and ornaments of the women, which
they forced from them without regard to common refpedt and de-
cency for the honour of their chief. While the young man was
thus ufed by his own tribe, the treatment he experienced from
Grangers may eafily be imagined. Dilleer Khan returned with his
army to the imperial provinces, thus ending, without any advan-
tage, a very expenfive and difgraceful campaign.

Khan Jehaun Bahadur on his arrival at court, not finding him-
felf treated fo gracioufly as ufual, abfented himfelf from the durbar,
and refigned his rank and commands; upon which Aurungzebe
obferved, that he had no occafion for pomp, and commanded him
to refign his equipage and train. Accordingly, the khan made an
offering of his elephants, horfes, and other enfigns of dignity, to
the emperor, who, however, after fome time, was gracioufly
pleafed to recall him to the prefence, and reftore him to all his
honours. Raja Jeffwunt Sing Bondela, fon of the late raja Inder
Mun, joined the army in Dekkan with a force befitting his rank.

Dilleer Khan receiving information that the Mharattas had ap-
peared near Zuffirabad Bieder, having left his baggage at Porundeh
with Soopkerrun Bondela, marched to purfue them ; and having
defeated them and cleared the country, returned to pafs the rains
at Bahadur Ghur. Intelligence arrived that Sewajee had detached a
force againfl the fort of Joneer. Abd al Yezzeez Khan, the go-
vernor, was a perfon of much experience and gallantry. Three
hundred of the enemy in the night afcended the walls by rope lad-
Vol* II* H ders.

A. H. 1091
A. D. 1680

AURUNGZEBEl’s operations in dekkan.

ders, and entered ; but though the kelladaar had fent moft of his
people with his fons to the affiftance of Yiah Khan, fojedaur of the
town, he bravely collected the few he had left, with his fervants,
and put mod: of the aflailants to the fword. A few were .found the
next day fkulking under the buffies and Hones at the bottom of the
wall, watching for an opportunity to efcape. Thefe he treated
with much kindnefs, and fent them back to Sewajee, with a mef-
fage, that while he commanded in the fort, he defied him to take
it.

As the emperor was much diffatisfied at the late behaviour of
the Afghaun chiefs, Jumlat al Moolk Affud Khan was ordered to
command in Dekkan, until the appointment of another foubahdar.
The prince Mahummud Mauzim ffiortly after was inverted, with the
government, . and a firmaun came to Dilleer Khan, enquiring, as
Abd al Kerreem had died, the Afghauns were difperfed, and difl'en-
tions occurred among the Dekkanees, why he had delivered up
Beejapore to Seedee Mufaood ? He was ordered to colled: the
Afghauns, and enroll them in the imperial fervice ; alfo to draw
over to him the officers of Beejapore and Hyderabad, till fuch time
as jaghires could be bertowed, allowing each horfeman daily pay
from the royal treafury, and to march immediately againft Bee-
japore.

♦

Dilleer Khan, agreeably to thefe inftrudions, having invited the
relations of Abd al Kerreem and other Afghaun chiefs, Syed Lutteef
and Eefah Ghulzee, Dekkanees of Beejapore and Hyderabad, re-
commended proportionate rank for each ; and for fuch horfes as they
brought, which amounted to about twenty thoufand, he allowed
daily pay. Many chiefs received jaghires, and were recommended
by Dilleer Khan for titles of nobility. Dilleer Khan’s nephew was
raifed to the rank of a thoufand, and came to Dekkan; where,
except the Afghauns, none were now efteemed worthy of dirtinrtion.

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN. ££

On the breaking up of the rains, Dilleer Khan marched from
Bahadur Ghur, Sambah, the fon of Sewajee, who had quarrelled
with his father, and was confined by him in the foi>t of Pernalleh,
having made his efcape with a few attendants, fent a meflenger to
Dilleer Khan, requefting his protection, and that he would fend
a force to affift him, as Sewajee’s troops were following him clofely.

Dilleer Khan immediately difpatched Akhlaafs Khan, with Ghierut
Khan, his own nephew, and other chiefs, with a proper force, and
followed himfelf. Sambah having met Akhlaafs Khan at Kerkum
Deoee, joined Dilleer Khan with a few of his family; and the
khan, regarding his coming as a molt favourable occurrence, beat
the march of victory, and reprefented it to the imperial court,
from whence Sambah was Ihortly after honoured with the title of
raja, the rank of feven thoufand, and a prefent of an elephant.

Dilleer Khan made him many prefents himfelf, and appointed a
refidence for his family, with a proper guard, at Bahadur Ghur.

Dilleer Khan remained the reft of this year at Illoje, preparing
for the expedition againft Beejapore. Soopkerrun Bondela being
dangeroufiy ill, left his fon Dulput Roy and his followers with the
army, and retired to Bahadur Ghur.

In the beginning of this year, Dilleer Khan marched againft A. H. 1092.
Bhopaul Ghur, a fort belonging to SCwajee in the Beejapore coun- A. D. 1681.
try. Cannon being planted upon a height which commanded the
inner part of the place, it was taken in three hours, and a vaft
quantity of grain found in ftore, part of which was delivered to the
troops, much taken by the camp followers, and the remainder fet
on fire ; after which the fort was razed to the ground.

The fame day the Mharattas appeared, intending to fuccour the
place, and an aCtion enfued, in which they were defeated and fled.

The fame body, a few days afterwards, fuddenly attacked and

H 2 plundered

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

plundered a detachment fent to colled: fupplies for the army, under
the command of Eeruch Khan, who took fhelter in a fmall fort,
leaving his people and baggage to fhift for themfelves. Dilleer
Khan waited on the banks of the Beemrah for fome neceflary Itores,
and to crofs his cannon, the river being flooded.

Soopkerrun Bondela, an ameer of two thoufand five hundred,
died in his fifty third year, at Bahadur Ghur, and was much la-
mented by all. Many of his women burned themfelves upon the
funeral pile with his corpfe. He was a foldier unequalled, had in
repeated battles won the prize of valour, and was in general fuccefs-
ful. He often remarked, that he had efcaped with life from many
dangers ; and that in the day of battle a foldier Ihould never think
of himfelfj for whatever the Almighty had decreed would happen
of courfe. He alfo faid there were two days in which a perfon
fhould not fear death, on that on which providence had decreed it
fhould not happen, and that on which it had decreed it thould. He
was bountiful to his friends, and unanxious for his own fortune.
Dilleer Khan and all the amras condoled with his fon Dulput Roy,
who was recommended to court, and exalted to the rank of five
hundred. Soopkerrun always kept a numerous and gallant body of
men in his fervice, by paying whom munificently he was never
rich, and though his fon Dulput Roy was raifed but to a trifling
rank, yet, regarding his future profpedts, he encouraged all his
father’s followers, and retained them in his own fervice.

Secunder Adil Shaw now reprefented to Aurungzebe, that he
eiteemed himfelf as one of his ancient flaves, and notwithstanding
Dilleer Khan was advancing to invade his country, if the emperor
would permit one of his fons to marry his filter, he fhould regard
it as an honour. This met with the royal approbation, and, ac-
cordingly, Secunder fent the young princefs with much pomp,
conducted by the phyfician Shumfe ad Dien to court, and Dilleer

Khan

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

Khan fupplied him with a proper efcort ; but, notwithflanding this,
he advanced to Beejapore, which, although he had twenty thoufand
horfe with' him, he was not able to blockade. On one fide he
kept up a conftant cannonade, and ruined a canal made by the firft
Adil Shaw, which flowed by the citadel and the great mofque,
through the city. The enemy made a Tally from the town, and
prefled hard on Syed Lutteef, but Dulput Roy being fent to his
afliflance, he repelled the aflailants, and took their ftandard. At
this time, the condud of Dilleer Khan not being approved of by
Aurungzebe, he recalled him to the prefence ; and the prince
Mahummud Mauzim alfo being removed from the government,
Khan Jehaun Bahadur was a fecond time appointed to the foubah-
daree of Dekkan. Dilleer Khan, upon this, railed the liege of
Beejapore, and plundered the country all around it, digging up and
totally deflroying the magnificent gardens in the environs of the
city. Sewajee’s meflengers were allowed communication with Sam-
bah, who now made his efcape with only eleven attendants ; fo that
it mull have happened by the connivance of Dilleer Khan, who
made no enquiries or example among the guards who watched his
perfon. Dilleer Khan next attacked the town of Sunker, near Bee-
japore, and having battered down the walls with his cannon, the
troops entered, and began to plunder; but the inhabitants, after
a defperate fkirmifh, drove them off again with very great lofs,
when Dilleer Khan evacuated the country.

This year died the Maharaja Jeflwunt Sing, near Cabul ; and
his followers brought his infant children, and his women who did
not burn with him, towards their native country. Orders were
fent to condud them to court, where on their arrival, Aurungzebe
infilled on the children being made Mahummedans. Upon this
the Raajepoote attendants, determining to die rather than fubmit
to this order, fled with their charge towards the raja’s territories,
and being hotly purfued by the emperor’s troops, fought valiantly,

and

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKRAN.

and were moftiy cut to pieces, but the women and infants arrived
fafely at Jodepore, After this, the courtiers brought a young child
to his majefty, and pretended he was the maharaja’s fon^ which
the emperor feigning to believe, had him circumcifed, named
Mahummedee Rauje, and educated as fuch. The emperor, dif-
pleafed at the refinance of the Raajepootes to his commands,
marched to expel the fons and relations of the late raja from Jode-
pore ; which fort foon fell into his hands, and raja Ajeet Sing, with
the family, took fhelter in the recedes of the mountains and woods.
Inder Sing was exalted to the rank of three thoufand, and the
poffedion of the rauje $ but as the dependants of the late prince and
the people could not be prevailed upon to pay him a proper obe-
dience, and the country remained long in an unlettled Rate, he was
degraded and depofed.

Sewajee having marched from his country to invade the imperial
territories, totally laid walle the diftridt of Jalneher and others ; and
his foldiers, notwithftanding his commands to the contrary, offered
infults to the fervants of Jaun Mahummud, a religious, from whofe
curfes it was believed Sewajee was taken ill, and fhortly after died.*
Sewajee was as a foldier unequalled, fkilled in the arts of govern-
ment, and a friend to men of virtue and religion. He planned his
fehemes wifely, and executed them with fteadinefs. He confulted
many on every point, but adted according to that advice, which,
after weighing in his own mind, he thought bed: applicable to his
defigns. No one was ever acquainted with his determinations but

' ’ by

* The Mharatta report is, that he was poifoned by his wife Soorabaye, who
could not procure his confent for her fon Rama to fucceed him. Sewajee in this laft
expedition was defeated, and hotly purfued by the Mogul general, Runmuft Khan.
Nearly at the lame time, his fleet was almoft deftroyed by the Siddees, in conjun&ion
with the Englifti of Bombay. It is probable, therefore, that he died neither by
poifon, nor the vifitation of God at the prayers of a devotee, but rather, by an
illnefs from fatigue in his flight, and vexation at the ill fuccefs of his arms.

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

by the fuccefs of their execution. He built palaces and ereded for-
tifications in every part of his country ; and it leemed as if he had
the art of feeing all hidden treafures, for wherever his people were
fent to make war, he directed them to fpots where valuables were
buried, as if he had laid them there himfelf. He kept forty thou-
fand horfes in his ftables, which he had mounted to adion by fol-
diers named bargeers. Every ten horfes had one taweeldaur, who
had the care of feeding them, as alfo one water carrier, and a torch
bearer ; each hundred had an officer over the ten taweeldaurs ; and
every thoufand a chief, who commanded the other ten. Wherever he
fent five or fix thoufand, a chief of confequence commanded on the
fervice. He alfo entertained men who had their own horfes j but the
Mharattas, who had mofl pay, were bargeers. When he detached
an army on fervice, he fupplied his bargeers with clothing and arms ;
and after the plunder of a country, whatever remained in their
hands above their amount, was carried to the account of his trea-
fury. He had numberlefs informers about his troops; fo that if
they kept back any money or goods from account, he forced them
to give them up.

‘Sambah, or Sambajee, who fucceeded his father in the rauje,
generally fpent his time in female pleafures and exceffive drinking,
and pofTeffed no talents for government. He purfued fuch a line of
conduct as difobliged his father’s fervants, and in a fhort time dif-
fipated in vanity the treafures Sewajee had amaffed. He listened to
the advice of no one, having a conceited opinion of his own abili-
ties, and chofe for his favourite, Kubkullufs, a bramin, with whom
he aded fuch fcenes as made him hateful to the world.

Aiker

* The partizans of Rama endeavoured to oppofe the fucceffion of Sambah, but
were foon overcome, and Rama put into confinement, Soorabaye, in defpair at the
fate of her fon, put herfelf to death.

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

Afker Khan Bukhfhi and Dulput Roy, with Serafrauz Khan and
other amras, having obtained leave from Diileer Khan, went to meet
Khan Jehaun. Diileer Khan marched to efcort his women from
Bahadur Ghur, and prepare for his journey to the prefence. Khan
Jehaun having arrived, after an interview with the prince Mahurn-
mud Mauzim, difpatched an efcort with him to court, agreeably
to orders, and then halted for the rainy feafon near the fort of
Aoont. After the rains, the Mharattas having entered the imperial
territories, Khan Jehaun marched along the banks of the Gung on
the road to Loehghur, which had been destroyed by Khan Dow-
raun; and moving through the pafs of Ferdapore, ten cofs from
Aurungabad, afcended the mountains of Kunneher, through a moll
uneven road, covered with wood ; fo that the troops met with great
difficulties, and were two days and nights without their tents and
baggage, diftrefied for water and provilions. At length he en-
camped near the tomb of ffiekh Fereed, thirty cofs from Aurunga-
bad. At this city died Raow Bhaow Sing Harrah, and many of his
women facrificed themfelves on his funeral pile. As he had no fon,
his nephew was fent for, agreeably to the imperial orders by the
prince Mahummud Akber, to Oojein, where he was (tabbed in the
wardrobe as he was putting on a drefs of honour, given upon his
inveftiture in the zemindaree of his uncle. This was fuppofed to have
been done by the emperor’s command. Raja Anoop SingRhatoree
was left in charge of Aurungabad, and Khan Jehaun detached
Raow Dulput in purfuit of the Mharattas.

A. H. 1094. The beginning of this year, when Khan Jehaun was encamped

A. D. 1682. at Babilgaum, fixteen cofs from Aurungabad, intelligence was
brought one morning, about four o’clock, that the Mharattas, by
the route of Ahmednuggur and Moorgee Puttun, were advancing
rapidly towards Aurungabad. He iffued orders of march inltantly,
and having fecured his baggage, left a force to proted it; then
moving from the ground with all expedition, reached the city about

noon }

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

noon ; which, if he had not arrived that day, muft inevitably have
been plundered. Accounts were now brought that the enemy were
feen in great numbers at Kafee Porah and the Hill of Sitterrah ;
alfo, that raja Anoop Sing, with his followers, was drawn up in
his quarters, but durft not venture to advance ; upon which Khan
Jehaun marched on with all poflible fpeed, and upon his appear-
ance the enemy fled without daring to engage, when he encamped
at the tank of Maharaja Jeflwunt Sing. The inhabitants of the
city had been much alarmed, and Ihut up their houfes, the doors
of which they had barricadoed, and prepared for defence. Khan
Jehaun, as the rains were now fetting in, took up his refidence in
the imperial palace ; and an order having arrived from court for the
purpofe, began to eredt a wall round the city, in order to prevent
any fudden attack from an enemy.

Intelligence arrived, that fultan Mahummud Akber, from the
rafhnefs of youth, and the intrigues of the Raajepootes, having
rebelled, the emperor had marched with a few troops from Ajmeer
to corredt him. The prince had, without Handing a battle, fled,
with Darruk Dafs Rhatoree, towards Dekkan. Khan Jehaun,
upon this intelligence, marched from the city at twelve o’clock at
night, and on the road received a letter from the fojedaur of Bug-
gellana, informing him, that Akber had gone by that way to Gool-
Ihunabad, and the khan, on his arrival there, found that he had
only one day before pafled and entered Kokun by the road of Ter-
rung , upon which, being difappointed of overtaking the fugitives,
he retreated to Aurungabad, and difpatched the news to court : but
it was afterwards reprefented, that Khan Jehaun was negligent in
the purfuit, and might have taken the prince, if he had chofen.
Sambah, efteeming Akber’s coming as a fortunate circumftance,
received him with the refped due to his rank, and gave him a
fuitable refidence near the fort of Khulna, on the fea coaft. He
appointed extenfive hunting grounds for his amufement, prefented
Vol. II. I him

5 7

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

him daily with money to pay fix hundred cavalry, his followers, and
once a week, regularly, vilited him, always obferving a proper
deference to his dignity, as one of the imperial princes.

f- . > ' 7 ; ' ,

Dulput Roy, who had been detached to punifh the Mharattas,
returned after his campaign to Aurungabad, when an extraordinary
and dangerous affair occurred to him. It appeared that a fervant of
Sambah’s, having taken a Jioufe in Begum Porah, fecretly levied
foldiers and bought arms for the fervice of the rebel prince. This
intelligence was conveyed to Khan Jehaun, who difpatched a guard
to feize the accufed perfon; and it happened that, Dulput Roy
palling at the time, he ran through the crowd of his attendants, and
got clear off. Khan Jehaun’s people avowed that they had taken
the man, and that the roy’s followers had feized him from them by
force ; upon which the khan fent to demand him of the roy ; but
he, who had not the leaf! knowledge of the affair, went to Khan
Jehaun, and related his innocence of the charge. Khan Jehaun flill
relying on the declaration of his own people, was offended; and
the roy, finding argument of no avail, left him in a paffion.
Two days afterwards, the khan determined to fend a force to fearch
for the offender ; but all the Bondelas in the city, hearing of his
intentions, joined Dulput Roy, who refolved to oppofe fuch indig-
nity; upon which Khan Jehaun defifted: but being exceedingly
enraged, reprefented the affair to court, as did alfo Dulput Roy.
The emperor gracioufly obferved, on hearing both fides of the
queflion, that the roy was an ancient imperial fervant, incapable of
fuch treacherous behaviour, and ordered him to join the prince
Mahummud Mauzim, who was again appointed to govern in Dek-
kan.

Khan Jehaun, at the breaking up of the rains, marched to
Bahadur Ghur, and the prince arrived at Aurungabad. Houffun
Ali Khan was detached with an army for the punifhment of the

- Mharattas

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

• Mharattas and conqueft of Kokun, and Dulput Roy ordered along
with him. Many fevere engagements were fought in this expedi-
tion, in which the roy performed fignal fervices. Jadoo Roy Dek-
kanee, an ameer of three thoufand, was killed, and Jagdeo Roy,
his grandfon, promoted to his rank. Khan Jehaun, leaving his
baggage at Bahadur Ghur, purfued the enemy whenever he heard
of their entering the royal territories.

In the beginning of this year, Houfiun Ali was detached for the A. H. 1095.
puniffiment of the Mharattas by the way of Porundeh. Kiffien Sing, i683»

the grandfon of the late Mirza Raja Jey Sing Sewai, who, throwing
afide the manners of the Raajepootes, imitated thofe of the Moguls, ,
was killed in a drunken quarrel for a dancing girl, near Porundeh,
by an Afghaun. This year Aurungzebe refolved to extirpate Sam-
bajee, and began his march from Ajmeer towards Dekkan. Dulput
Roy was promoted to the rank of fix hundred by the royal favour.

The emperor, after remaining fome time at Boorahanpore, A. H. 1096.
moved with a vaft army into Dekkan, and arrived at Aurungabad. A. D. 1684..
The prince Mahummud Mauzim Shaw, with Dilleer Khan Afghaun,
was detached to Ahmednuggur. Shaub ad Dien Khan, fon of
Koollich Khan, fuddur al fuddoor, with Dulput Roy, and other
imperial officers, were ordered to befiege the fort of Ramfudje,
five cofs from Goolffiunabad. Having began their approaches,
they erected upon an eminence near the walls a platform of wood,,
or cavalier, which could contain five hundred men, and was raifed
ftory upon ftory to fuch a height, that the foldiers at the top could
fire mufquetry at the befieged within the walls, fo as to prevent
them daring to ffiew their heads from under cover. Intelligence
being brought to Aurungzebe, that Sambajee’s army had marched
to raife the fiege, Khan Jehaun was ordered to canton at Goolffiun-
abad, in order to be ready to fuccour the aflailants in cafe of
neceffity ; and he accordingly marched from Bahadur Ghur. Khan

I 2 Jehaun

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

Jehaun leaving his army, went to pay his refpe&s to the emperor
at Aurungabad, taking with him Runmud Khan, who, at his re-
quefl, was promoted to the title of Bahadur Khan, and fent with a
detachment againd Kokun. Shaub ad Dien Khan was ordered to
the vicinity of Joneer, where the enemy were committing depreda-
tions, and Khan Jehaun to command the liege of Ramfudje, upon
which place an unfuccefsful affault was made fome time after, and
Dulput Roy, with many others, wounded. Dulput was promoted
to the rank of feven hundred. Mahummud Moraud was honoured
with the title of khan, and the office of fecond bukhffii in addition
to the other pods which he held in Khan Jehaun’s army. Bahadur
Khan Runmuft marched towards Kokun, and reprefented to the
emperor, that if Khan Jehaun ffiould be dationed at the pafs of
Mhajah, he could then invade the country. Another affault was
made upon the fort of Ramfudje, but it proved unfuccefsful ; upon
which the liege was raifed, and the great platform of wood built by
Shaub ad Dien at an immenfe expenfe, being filled with com-
budibles, was fet on fire and dedroyed. The befieged upbraided
the troops with cowardice as they retreated, calling out to them to
dop and cover themfelves with the alhes of their battery.

Bahadur Khan entered Kokun by the pafs of Mhajah; and as
the incurfions of the enemy were daring near Goollhunabad, Khan
Jehaun moved towards that town, upon which the enemy took to
flight j when leaving his baggage to the charge of Maha Sing Bha-
doreah, fojedaur of the place, he purfued the fugitives. Orders
were iffued to Khan Jehaun to join the prince Moiz ad Dien, elded
fon of the prince Mahummud Mauzim Shaw Aulum, who had
marched for the punilhment of the enemy. Accordingly, having
ordered his baggage from Goollhunabad, he joined the prince near
Rampore, on the banks of the Gung, fixteen cofs from Aurungabad.
The prince did him the honour to alight from his horfe at their
meeting, and embrace him ; at hearing which the emperor was

difpleafed.

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

difpleafed, and angrily enquired of Shaw Aulum, why his fon had
condefcended fo far from his dignity. The prince replied, that the
emperor Jehaungeer had deigned to honour by the like favour
Mortiza Khan, after his defeating fultan Khooleroo.

The prince Moiz ad Dien, after halting fome days in the vicinity
of Nabudter, marched to Zuffirabad Bieder ; where, on the day of
his arrival, intelligence was brought him, that the imperial ele-
phants and thofe of Shaw Aulum, which had been fent to fodder at
Patterree Bacherra, were juft attacked by a body of the enemy.
Khan Jehaun, inilantly leaving the prince with the baggage at the
fort of Bieder, marched ; and hearing on the route that the elephants
were carried off, he quitted the little baggage he then had with
him, and moved night and day with redoubled fpeed after the Mha-
rattas, who fled at his appearance, and he recovered the elephants,
except a few that were fwifteff of foot, which the enemy had fent
on before them. He did not defifl from the purfuit, but leaving
what he had recovered in charge of the fojedaurs of the diftridts,
marched on, and near the borders of Terk Chandeh recovered the
remainder from the Mharattas ; after which he returned to within
four cofs of Zuffirabad, and fending for his baggage, encamped on
the banks of the tank of Kamfeaneh. The troops in this march
experienced numerous hardffiips, and even Khan Jehaun was with-
out his tent and proper proviflons. Numbers of the foldiers fell
behind, fatigued, at every place on the route, and were not able to
join for fome time after.

His majefty being difpleafed with the condudt of Mahummud
Azim Shaw, who had been fent to Ahmednuggur, he was ordered
to the prefence with Dilleer Khan ; but he delayed his departure,
and did not move to court until after repeated commands; upon
which Dilleer Khan incurred the royal difpleafure. On the way, a
furious elephant broke through the ranks, and ran towards the

prince’s

62 AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEFCKAN.

prince’s palanquin, but was luckily put to death without hurting his
perfon. The prince Shaw Aulum was ordered with an army into
Kokun, to reduce the Mharatta fortreffes on the fea coaft. A
plague, which had feldom happened either in Dekkan or Khan-
defhe, occurred this year in both countries, and carried off fuch
numbers, that many large towns were depopulated.

A. H. 1097. The prince Mahummud Moiz ad Dien attended his father, Shaw

A. D. 1685. Aulum, to Kokun, which he entered by the way of Ramdirrah ;

but the country in that part being but thinly cultivated, fupplies of
provifions foon grew Ihort, upon which the prince moved to the fea
coaft, and the emperor iftued orders for provifions to be conveyed by
fhipping to Dunda Rajapore, near Bombay, but they could not
bring fufficient, and famine prevailing in the prince’s camp, num-
bers died through mere want of food. Khan Jehaun moved from
the tank of Kamfeaneh to Buggulkote, where he halted for fome
time, and then went againft the fort of Mulluknehur, of little
ftrength, which he carried by ftorm in two days. Himmut Khan
and Raja Jeffwunt Sing Bondela headed the affault. Khan Jehaun
at the approach of the rainy feafon, having cantoned his army at
Bukkrum Bullee, twelve cofs from Zuffirabad, went himfelf to re-
fide at Koolburga. Juggut Sing, fon of Mukkund Sing Harrah, an
ameer of two thoufand, died, and, as he had no fon, his country
was given to his uncle’s fon Kifhoor Sing, Shaub ad Dien Khan
and Raow Dulput Sing, having entered Kokun, had an adtion with
Sambah at Nizampore, and having defeated him, plundered the
place of his refidence ; in reward for which fervice, the emperor
conferred on the former the title of Ghazi ad Dien Khan Bahadur,
and promoted the latter to the munfub of one thoufand, calling
them to his prefence ; after which he detached them againft the
fort of Joneer.

Dilleer

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

Dilleer Khan Afghaun, an ameer of five thoufand, who had
won the prize of military fame and conduit from all the cotemporary
nobles, and fully underflood the modes and policy of Dekkan,
where in his operations he was generally victorious ; upon feeing
new amras preferred by the emperor over his head, and that what
he reprefented out of duty was but little attended to, grew weary
of the world, and died from vexation and difappointment. In the
time of his youth he had a remarkable appetite and ftrength of
body, and in his old age was blefled with good health. Upon his
death the emperor confifcated his fortune, which he fuppofed im-
menfe ; but it not anfwering his expectations, he confined Peers
Mahummud, his fecretary, in order to inveftigate the caufe, who
would not inform, though put to the torture. At length he was
releafed.

The prince Shaw Aulum had reprefented repeatedly to the A. If. 1098.
emperor, that from the inclemency of the air in Kokun, a plague A* D*
had broke out in his camp, which deflroyed great numbers, and
the diftrefs for provifions was exceffive ; upon which a frefh army,
under Roh Oollah Khan, was difpatched to efcort the prince to
court. Aurungzebe marched from Aurungabad with the grand
camp to Ahmednuggur. Khan Jehaun, who had purfued a body
of the enemy to Sangoulah, met Roh Oollah Khan on his march,
and they accompanied each other as far as Ramdirrah. Khan
Jehaun afterwards encamped, by the imperial commands, near the
town of Annunderee, only feventeen cofs from Beejapore. The
prince Shaw Aulum returned through the pafs of Ramdirrah in his
way to court. Moft of his cavalry had loft their horfes, and the
greatefl part of the army were on foot for want of conveyance, as
the Mharattas, with the ficknefs and famine, had made the greatefl
havock among them. Khan Jehaun paid his refpeCts, and, having
fupplied the prince with all necefiaries, took his leave; then poll-
ing

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

ing a detachment in charge of Annunderee, cantoned his army,
according to orders from the emperor, at Almillah.

Several of the amras attendant on the court, on account of the
wafte of their jaghires in the foubahs of Dekkan, now received
falaries in lieu ; and the great officers, who from the fame caufe
alfo were become diflreffed, opened their hands to the receipt of
bribes, notwithstanding the pofitive injunctions of the emperor to
the contrary -y they alfo extorted money, under the pretence of fees
for forwarding the views of expectants at court ; fo that the im-
perial fervice now became but of little advantage, except to the
civil officers of high rank, and their greedy deputies.

Serdar Khan, an Afghaun munfubdar, hired a number of ban-
ditti, and made a practice of fending them to rob ; but being foon
detected, he was puniffied with death, and his effects confifcated.

A. D. 1099. Khan Jehaun having quited his cantonments at Almillah, en-
A. D. 1687. camped on the banks of the Beemrah, and detached Sippedar Khan
and Dilleer Himmut towards Koolburga to puniffi the Pinderras ;
which having done, they returned. Orders arrived to Station Dilleer
Himmut again near Koolburga, to prevent them from croffing the
Beemrah ; but he died foon after his march, and was fucceeded in
command by Jaun Niffaur Khan, fon of Collinder Khan.

Orders were fent to Khan Jehaun to march to Ruffoolpore, and
flop the communication with Beejapore on that quarter, while Roh
Oollah Khan blocked it up on the fide of Shawpore : but, prior to
the arrival of thefe inftruCtions, Roh Oollah Khan had encamped at
Ruffoolpore, and Khan Jehaun at Taktannah ; fo that they met
together, and, upon the arrival of a farther order, the latter en-
camped at Shawpore.

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKfCAN. 65

As the emperor had determined to attack Hyderabad and Beeja-
pore, he moved with the grand camp from Ahmednuggur to Sho-
lapore, and appointed fyed Zein-al-abid-Dien kelladaar of the former
city. The enemy, fuddenly collecting, attempted a furprize ; but
the fyed, being timely advifed, was on his guard, and defeated
their enterprize. Ghazi ad Dien Khan, being recalled from Joneer,
was fent to proteCt Ahmednuggur, and Dulput Roy was now pro-
moted to the rank of one thoufand three hundred.

Khan Jehaun was now ordered to Hyderabad, and Roh Oollah
Khan to march for the liege of Beejapore, where the prince Shaw
Azim was alfo fent with a powerful army. The king of Hyder-
abad hearing of Khan Jehaun’s approach, fent Mahummud Ibrahim,
the chief of his nobility, to oppofe him with feventy thoufand horle.
Skirmiihes occurred between them for many days ; but as Khan
Jehaun had but a fmall force compared with the enemy’s, he durft
not hazard a general engagement ; therefore, having thrown up
entrenchments round his camp, he communicated his fituation to
the emperor. The prince Shaw Aulum was difpatched with a
reinforcement to his affiftance, and orders given for Beheramund
Khan and Eaticaud Khan to attend him part of the way. The prince
having reached Mulkneher, put his baggage under charge of Jaun
Niffaur Khan, and marched with his troops in order of battle towards
the entrenchments of Khan Jehaun. The Hyderabadeans made a
charge in different quarters, but in vain ; and in the evening the
prince joined the camp, where it had rained fo hard, that it was
impoffible to pitch the great tents ; and the prince, with his wives,
was obliged to put up with a very fmall one. Khan Jehaun, who
was fituated conveniently, fent dreffed provifions for his family and
all the amras who attended him. After three days, the prince and
Khan Jehaun advanced ; and, as is the cuftom with the Dekkan
troops, the Hyderabad army made falfe attacks on all lides of the
line. This continued for four days, after which Beheramund Khan
Vo 1,. II. K and

AURUNGZEBE's OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN,

and Eaticaud Khan returned to the prefence. Orders arrrived that
the treafury officers of Khan Jehaun’s army fhould alfo a£t as fuch
to the prince. Eeruch Khan, an ameer of two thoufand five hun-
dred, an excellent officer, of great experience, was much in the
efteem of Khan Jehaun, who always placed him near his own per-
fon in the field. During this march, Eeruch Khan’s elephant,
frightened at the noife of a rocket, ran away. The driver ufed
every endeavour to turn him, but in vain ; fo that the khan was
taken prifoner, but died fhortly after. He was much regretted by
his followers, who were all treated by him as brethren. The khan
was generous, not only to his friends, but to all, being ever ready
to ferve a petitioner ; fo that his good name was univerfal. He ex-
celled mod: of the greater amras in the elegant ftile of his living,
and entertained fervants of the firft abilities, to whom he allowed
high pay. His table was always richly and plentifully provided ;
and whenever either acquaintance or travellers paffed near his re-
fidence, he furnifhed them amply with all neceffaries, treating all
with that attention due to their quality. If a merchant came to him
from Perfia, or any other diftant part, he generally kept him with
him fome days, bought his whole cargo, and difmiffed him with
many favours. His mind was truly noble, and he died univerfally
lamented. Himmut Khan Bahadur, Raja Jeffwunt Sing Bondela,
with the commander of artillery, Aga Ali Khan Roomee, making
a charge upon a large body of the enemy, who were eroding a long
fwamp of rice fields, two of their principal officers were taken
prifoners by the raja’s followers. The fame day, Mahummud
Ibrahim, who commanded the Hyderabad army, fled unexpectedly
to the city ; and from that day the enemy’s forces difappeared al-
together, and the royal army purfued their route clofe to Hyderabad
by repeated marches. The Dekkanees accufed Mahummud Ibra-
him of treachery, exclaiming, that if he had done his duty, the
imperial troops could never have advanced.

The

AURUNGZEBE's OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

The king, not thinking it fafe to remain longer in the city, Ihut
himfelf up in the fort of Golconda, though Madna Pandit, his
prime minilter, earneltly entreated him to the contrary ; obferving,
that it would be better to retire to Warunkul, or fome other fort,
from whence he might with eafe fuccour Golconda, in cafe the
imperial troops Ihould lit down before it ; whereas he would, by
fhutting himfelf up in it, be totally cut off from refources. Abou
HoulTun would not lilten to this reafonable advice, and thus clofed
upon himfelf the gates of adverlity.

Mahummud Ibrahim, the general, confulting his own interefls,
came over to Khan Jehaun, and was introduced by him to the
prince, who received him gracioully, and recommended him for
promotion in the imperial fervice. Akka Ali was fent to guard the
city of Hyderabad, and allure the inhabitants of protection ; but
molt of thofe who were able to procure conveyance for their fami-
lies and effects, had retired into the fort of Golconda, while the
remainder Itayed terrified in their houfes, expecting their fate. The
next day the prince fent his own followers to guard the city, but
they extended their hands to plunder. The houfe of Madna Pundit,
the minifter, was robbed of goods beyond all account, and ftripped
even to the frames of the doors and windows. So many new tents
were found in it, that, immediately after, an old one was not to be
feen in the prince’s camp. The king’s palace was alfo plundered in
a great degree ; but, ' after two days, the charge was given to Khan
Jehaun, who reltored order, and collected fome property for the
emperor’s account ; but if all the plunder had been thus taken care
of, it would have amounted to an immenfe value. Though the
emperor repeatedly wrote, that when he had plundered this city,
before his acceflion to the throne, large fums were found in the
ceilings of apartments, and infilled on all being preferved for his
ufe with the utmofl rigour, yet no one regarded the imperial order,
and many of the firlt houfes were plundered by the troops.

K 2 Mahummud

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKFCAN.

Mahummud Ibrahim being one of the creatures of Madna Pundit,
that minifler was fufpedted of having perfuaded him to go over to
the imperial army, and of intending to follow himfelf. It was faid
that the reafon of his advifing the king not to take refuge in Gol-
conda, was, that he might have an opportunity of betraying him
into the emperor’s hands. Abou Houffun had, on appointing Madna
Pundit prime minifler, taken a folemn oath, that he would not
attend to what any perfons might fay againfl him, and therefore he
did not liflen to thefe infinuations : but the officers, who hated
Madna, at the infligation of the king’s mother in law, widow of
the late fultan, affaffinated him as he was going into the king’s
prefence, and cutting off his head fent it to the prince Shaw Auluin,
with a meffage, importing, that it had belonged to him, to whom
only, all the infolence and difrepedt fhewn to the emperor was
owing, for which he had at laff met his deferts.

Abou Houffun, who had committed to Madna all his power,
and contented himfelf with the pageantry of royalty, being by his
death left without an advifer on whom he could rely, immediately
made requeffs for peace, and promifes of a very valuable offering.

The prince Shaw Aulum now moved his quarters into an exten-
five garden near the fort, where Abou Houffun had built a fplendid
palace, in which the prince took up his own refidence. When the
news of the fall of Hyderabad reached the emperor, as a mark of
his favour he fent jewels, elephants, horfes and dreffes for Shaw
Aulum and the amras, under the care of Abd al Kerreem, keeper
of the oratory, and other chiefs ; who upon their arrival at Momin
Putteah, not far from the city, were furprized, plundered, and taken
prifoners, by fhekh Munnaje and the Afghauns in the fervice of
Abou Houffun, not a man efcaping without a wound. The prince
Shaw Aulum upon this difafter, fent a meffage- to Abou Houffun,

' threatening

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threatening to flop the negotiations for peace, and take ample
vengeance for fuch atrocious infults and breach of the truce.

Abou Houlfun made numberlefs excufes, declared that the
attack was not made by his orders, and that he had not the fmallefl
knowledge of it. He collected the plundered effedts with much
care, and fent them with the wounded prifoners to the prince, pro-
miflng, if he would grant him peace, to make an offering of
a two corores of rupees in treafure and effedts, which he would col-
ledt and pay, whenever the prince fhould move from the city to
Koehr.

Shaw Aulum forwarded his petition to court, and it meeting
with the emperor’s approbation, Momin Khan was left to receive
the money, and the prince retreated. Aurungzebe was difpleafed
at the great force his fon and Khan Jehaun kept about their perfons,
and the plunder of the city and the king’s palace not being accounted
for in the royal treafury. Calling Khan Jehaun to the prefence,
he fent him to the government of Lahore, and difpatched Syef
Oollah Khan to order Kullich Khan, fuddur al fuddoor, Himmut
Khan, Mamoor Khan, and feveral other amras, to quit the prince
immediately, and return to court. Ibrahim Khan, the Hyderabad
general, was promoted to the title of Mahabut Khan and rank of
fix thoufand. The prince was ordered to remain at Koehr, till the
fums fhould be paid agreeably to the treaty of peace with Abou
Houffun.

The army againfl Beejapore under the prince Azim Shaw had
repeated actions with the enemy. Amaun . Oollah Khan, fon of
Aliverdi Khan, and other Dekkan amras, were killed, and Kifhoor
Sing Harrah and others wounded. The communication between
this army and the imperial camp at Sholapore being cut off by the

enemy’s

“Two millions flerling.

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

7°

enemy’s horfe, an extreme fcarcity of grain prevailed ; fo that a
“feer of rice fold for eleven rupees, and at even this exorbitant
price was procured with the greateft difficulty. Ghazi ad Dien
Khan, with Dulput Roy Bondela and others, were difpatched from
Ahmednuggur to efcort provifions, ftores, and a large fum of money
to the prince. About five cofs from camp they were attacked by
the enemy’s army. The khan taking charge of the convoy, Dul-
put Roy, Mujahid Khan, and other chiefs, received the enemy,
and, after a fevere engagement, defeated them, killing about four
thoufand foot who could not efcape the fury of the enraged Moguls
and Raajepootes. The convoy arrived fafely at the camp before
Beejapore, and provifions again began to be cheap. Ghazi ad Dien
Khan was honoured with the additional title of Ferofe Jung, and
Dulput Roy with that of raow, and the privilege of carrying the
b allum in his train.

A. H. uoo.
A. D. 1688.

The emperor this year, at a fortunate inftant, departed with
the grand camp from Sholapore to the fiege of Beejapore, and bat-
teries were opened immediately upon his arrival before the place.
The prince Akber, who had taken refuge with Sambah, by his
inftigation, fuppofing the imperial territories undefended by many
troops, with Darruk Dafs and about ten thoufand Mharattas made an
incurfion from Kokun towards Hindooftan ; but the emperor, hav-
ing advice of his intentions, had left Merhummut Khan at Ahmed-
nuggur, who intercepted the rebel prince in the neighbourhood of
Chakneh, and defeated him, after a very obftinate engagement;
which put an end to his enterprize, and he retreated again to Sam-
bah’s country. Syed Leffikar Khan and other amras were left at
Sholapore, to guard the heavy baggage of the army and furniffi
efcorts for provifions to the imperial camp. Eaticaud Khan, fon
of Jumlat al Moolk Aflud Khan, was detached with a force to

obferve

* About two pounds.

* A fort of pike.

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKANf.

7 1

obferve the enemy’s motions. Beejapore was now furrounded on
all tides, and the different ffations allotted to the amras. Syed
Fatteh Ali Khan, reconnoitring too near the ditch, received the
honour of martyrdom, and many of his followers were wounded.

Many Ikirmilhes occurred on the foraging parties, and the befieged
daily made tallies from the town. Raow Dulput was wounded
in one by an arrow. Syed Lethkar Khan was recalled from Shola-
pore, and the command given to Eaticaud Khan.

The fiege of Beejapore ftill continued, and the befieged to op- A.H. not.
pofe the approaches with great gallantry. The grand powder A. D. 1689.
magazine, which was placed under ground in the camp, by fome
accident blew up with a dreadful explofion, which was heard for
fixty miles. As the country round Beejapore had been long laid
wafle and uncultivated, fupplies were cut off from the fort, and the
befieged at length became exceedingly diftreffed for provifions.

Every chance of fuccour was loft, and the foldiers became difatisfied ;
but ftill, in this hopelefs condition, they gallantly refilled. At length,
feveral breaches being effe<5ted, the difpofition of affault was made
by Kouwaum ad Dien Khan, commander of the imperial artillery.

The befieged, upon this, judged it fafelt to capitulate, and requelled
terms through Ghazi ad Dien Khan Ferofe Jung ; when it was
fettled, that the young king Secunder fhould pay his refpedts to the
emperor, and his principal officers be exalted to munfubs. Ferofe
Jung fent Dulput Raow with a few followers into the fort to bring
Secunder to his quarters, when he conducted him himfelf to the
prefence of Aurungzebe, by whom, after paying his compliments,
he was allowed to fit. The emperor honoured him with the title of
khan, bellowed upon him many favours, and allotted tents for his
accommodation in the Ruggela Bar. Sheerza Khan was raifed to the
title of Ruftum Khan, Abd al Raooff to that of Dilleer Khan, and
both to munfubs of feven thoufand. Seedees Salim and Jumlheed

were

■0

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

were honoured with titles and the munfub of five thoufand, and
all the officers promoted according to their quality.

Aurungzebe paffed to view the fort, through the breach by
which the affault was intended to have been made, fitting on a
travelling throne, and to the great mofque, where he offered up
thankfgivings for his fuccefs. Syed Lefhkar Khan was appointed
governor of the citadel. Upon an aftoniffiingly large piece of
ordnance was engraved this infcription; “ The prince Ma-
“ hummud Ghazi, in fplendour like the fun, under whofe um-
“ brella the world fought a fhelter, by the force of his all-deftroy-
“ ing fabre, in half the winking of an eye, took the * mailer of
“ the field from Nizam Shaw.” This cannon, moft probably the
largeft ever known, was made by Roomi Khan, an officer of one
of the Nizam Shaws, and fell into the hands of fultan Mahummud
Beejaporee. The emperor ordered this infcription to be erafed, and
the following to be put in the ftead : “ Shaw Aulumgeer Ghazi,
“ emperor of kings, who reftored juftice and conquered the fove-
“ reigns of Dekkan, reduced Beejapore. Good fortune on him
“ daily fmiled, and victory exclaimed. He hath fubdued the mailer
“ of the field.” In this infcription is conveyed the date in which
the fort furrendered. The city and environs of Beejapore are upon
a fine plain without any declivities ; the fort probably the largeft in
the world ; and, between it and the city wall, convenient room
for fifteen thoufand horfe to encamp. Within the citadel was the
king’s palace, the houfes of the nobility, and large magazines,
befides many extenfive gardens ; and round the whole a deep ditch,
always well fupplied with water. There were alfo without the
city very large fuburbs and noble palaces. Sultan Mhamcod kept
on foot one hundred and eighty thoufand horfe ; and in the time of
Ali Adil Shaw, when the Mirza Raja lay before Beejapore, that
fultan had not lefs than eighty thoufand. On the emperor’s taking

* The name of the cannon.

AURUNGZEEE's OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

if, there were not more than two thoufand horfe within it. After
this victory, the waters of the refervoirs and the wells in the fort
decreafed ; the country round remained entirely wafte for a great
diftance, and a confiderable part of the reft was feized by the pin-
derrahs and zemindars, who acknowledged no fuperior. About a
cofs from the city ftood once another vaft town, which might be
called a fecond Beejapore, named Norufs, and built by Ifmaeel and
Ibrahim Adil Shaw j but it was now quite depopulated, and ruined
palaces only remaining, with a thick wall furrounding it, whofe -
ftately gateways were falling to decay.

Cafim Khan was appointed fojedaur of Carnatic Beejapore, and
Ghazi ad Dien Khan with other amras fent to reduce the country
round Hyderabad.

The prince Akber, finding nothing more to expe<ft from Sambah,
took his departure on board a fhip, with a few attendants, for
Perfia, and Darruk Dafs returned to his own country of Marwar.

Ruftum Khan Beejaporee, who had been promoted -to the rank of
feven thoufand, was detached towards the fort of Sittarra againft
the Mharattas, who attacked, defeated, and took him prifoner, but
releafed him on his paying a very large fum of money.

Ghazi ad Dien Khan, and the amras under him, having en- A. H. 1102.
tered the Hyderabad territories, laid wafte all parts of it; and the A. D. 1690.
emperor marching from Sholapore with intentions to befiege Gol-
conda, on the way vifited the forts of Tuldoorg and Koolburga, alfo
the tomb of fyed Mahummud Gefoo-derauz. The prince Mahum-
mud Azim Shaw was detached to Goolfhunabad to punifh the Mha-
rattas and the emperor, having moved by the route of Zuffirabad
Bieder, at length fat down before Golconda, and the fiege was
commenced. As Abou Houffun had efcaped into the fort, Mahum-
mud Moraud Khan, the refident at Hyderabad, incurred the royal
Vol. II. L difpleafure

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

difpleafure for having allowed him to do fo, and was degraded from
his munfub ; but reftored fhortly after, at the interceflion of AITud
Khan. Ghazi ad Dien Khan was recalled to the prefence. Shekh
Nizam Hyderabadee collected an army to relieve the fort, and
Raow Dulput being fent againft him, gave him a complete defeat.
Orders were iffued to attack a camp of the befieged which had
taken Ihelter clofe to the ditch. This fervice was performed by
Mujahid Khan, Kilhoor Sing Harrah, Ra,ow Dulput, and others,
who plundered it. Kullich Khan, fuddur al fuddoor, going too
clofe to the fort, was killed by a cannon fhot. Skirmifhes happened
every day with the enemy, and it rained fo continually, that the
roads were rendered impafiable ; and grain became fo fcarce in the
camp, that many of the followers died of hunger.

The emperor, from the reprefentations of the fpies about his
perfon, entertaining fufpicions of the loyalty of the prince Shaw
Aulum, privately gave orders for a body of armed men to be drawn
up in the grand audience tent ; and fending for the prince with his
fons, commanded Afiud Khan to difarm and confine them. They
were degraded from their ranks in the army, their effects feized,
and treated with. the fame rigour as common criminals. An affault
was made upon the fort by Ghazi ad Dien Khan, and his ma jelly
went in perfon to the batteries to encourage the aflailants; but they
did not fucceed, the enemy repulfing them with great gallantry.

At length, after a fiege of feven months, Golconda fell by
treachery. Abdoolla, a principal chief and favourite of Abou Houf-
fun, who had been mofi adtive in the defence of the place, being
gained over by bribes and aflurances of high rank in the imperial
fervice, admitted in the night a body of the Mogul troops, under
the command of Roh Oollah Khan, into the fortrefs. The gar-
rifon, exdept a few who were foon overcome, laid down their arms ;
and the fultan Abou Houfiim was efcorted by the prince Azim Shaw to

the

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

the emperor’s tent. The date of this occurrence is included in the
following lines : “ Hyderabad was conquered by Aulumgeer, under
“ the aufpices of the Almighty, fighting for the true faith. He
“ had the power of Jumlheed, and the wifdom of Alexander. His
“ valiant heroes, with pious zeal, tore up infidelity and wickednefs
by the roots in Dekkan.” Hyderabad was now named The
Manfion of Zeal. Cafim Khan was ordered to take charge of this
part of Carnatic, until a fojedaur Ihould be appointed. The Car^
natics, now divided between Hyderabad and Beejapore, were for-
merly fubjedt to the dynafty of Ramraaje Carnaticas, once of great
power and dominion, whofe capital was Beejanuggur, lituated fifty
cofs from the fortrefs of A donee, and one hundred and feventy from
Bieder ; from which their dominions extended to the fea coaft one
way, on another to the river Kiftnah, and fome parts to the river
Beemrah. They kept an army of thirty thoufand horfe, a million
of infantry, and their wealth was beyond enumeration. The laft
Ramraaje attempting to conquer the territories of Adil Shaw Beeja-
poree, Koottub Shaw Hyderabadee, and Nizam Shaw Dowlu-
tabadee, the three fultans formed an alliance for their mutual
fecurity, and, having joined their forces, marched to the banks of
the Kiftnah, on the oppofite fide of which Ramraaje was encamped
with an innumerable hoft. The allies croffed the river and attacked
him. Adil Shaw was panic-ftruck, but his nobility and troops
ftood firm, and continued with their allies to charge the enemy.
Ramraaje, priding himfelf on his vaft fuperiority of numbers, had
pitched a magnificent canopy, under which he fat upon a throne
fhining with jewels, to give orders to his troops j but when the
army of the fultans broke in upon his line, he removed into a
palanquin, the bearers of which, being much frightened, threw it
down, and he was feized by Nizam Shaw’s people, and brought
prifoner to their fultan.; who cut off his head and fixed it on the
point of his fpear. The enemy, upon feeing it, took to flight, and
an immenfe treafure of money, jewels and effects, with two thou-

L 2 fand

AURUNGZEBE's OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN,

land elephants, fell into the hands of the victorious allies, who
purfued the fugitives with great daughter to the walls of Beejanug-
gur ; from whence, after receiving a valuable contribution from the
late raja’s brother, they retreated, leaving him in pofieffion of the
government..

The imperial firmaun was fent to Mohib Ali, Abou Houfliin’s
governor of Carnatic, who had been honoured with the title of
Ufker Khan and munfub of feven thoufand, to prevent the people
of the diltridts from difperfing j and a force was alfo appointed for
* their defence from the prefence. Ifmaeel, Ajeet Naire, and other
Dekkan officers, with the zemindars, had plundered him, but dif-
perfed on the arrival of Mukkerum Khan with the royal troops.
Bam Naick, governor of Sunker, dependant upon Beejapore, hav->
ing made his fubmiffions to the emperor, delivered up the place 5
which was new named Nufferut Ghur. Raja Anoop Sing was
honoured with the command, and the rank of five thoufand, but
died ffiortly after.' Bam Naick and his fon were promoted to the
rank of three thoufand ; but they in a little time fled to Wakin
Kerah, their native place, fix cofs from Nuflerut Ghur, and raided
difturbances. Mahummud Azim Shaw coming from Goolfliuna-
bad, paid his compliments at court. Shekh Nizam Hyderabadee
fubmitting, was honoured with the title of Khan Zummaun and
munfub of five thoufand. Meer Houfleinee, a principal officer of
Abou Houffun, being raided to the rank of fix thoufand and title of
Ali Merdan Khan, was appointed to the fojedaury of Kinjee, de-
pendant on Hyderabad Carnatic ; and more nobles were created
than had ever been in the reign of any former emperor. Ghazi
ad Dien Khan was fent with a large army to befiege the fort of
Adonee, and Raow Dulput who accompanied him, was promoted
to the rank of two thoufand one hundred. The khan upon his
march took feveral forts belonging to Beejapore, and one of them,
Heybut Kerrumna, was named Ferofe Ghur. The fort of Kernole

was

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

was called Kummernuggur. The prince Mahummud Azim Shaw
was fent againft Mullukgaum, belonging to Beejapore, which he
took.

Jeffwunt Sing Bondela dying, the zemindary of Oorcha was
conferred on Bugwunt Sing, his fon, an infant of four years, with
the title of raja. At this time an epidemical ague raged over all
Dekkan, of which numbers died; as alfo a great fcarcity of grain.
Ghazi ad Dien Khan having for fome time blocked up the fort of
Adonee, Seedee Mufaood delivered it up ; and with his family
going to the prefence, was honoured with the title of khan and
munlub of feven thoufand. The emperor now moved from Hyder-
abad by the way of Koolburga to Beejapore. Khan Zummaun was
appointed to the fojedaury of Kolapore, in the neighbourhood of
Pernalleh. A peftilence broke out in the camp of Beejapore, raging
to a great pitch, and many of the ladies of the haram died ; upon
which the emperor moved to Bahadur Ghur.

The fpies of Khan Zummaun brought him intelligence, that.
Sambah was encamped near the fort of Kalneh, belonging to him,
about fifteen cofs from Pernalleh, in the paffes to Kokun, entirely
off his guard, immerfed in debauchery and hard drinking. The
khan marched immediately, and about daylight next morning fur-
prized his camp. Sambah, intending to move, had fent off the
greatefl part of his attendants with his women on before him, and
was waiting for Kubkullufs, his favourite, who was performing his
devotions, when they were both taken prifoners. Khan Zummaun
immediately informed the emperor of his fuccefs, who beat the
march of victory, and difpatched Eaticaud Khan with a confiderable
army to befiege the fort of Rairee, which had been the capital of
Sewajee and his fucceffor.

Ghazi

78 AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

Ghazi ad Dien Khan after the farrender of the fort of Adonee,

| # 7
came to encamp near Beejapore, where he was affli&ed with the

plague ; from which he recovered, but with the total lofs of eyefight.

The prince Mahummud Azim Shaw was difpatched to Loluk-

kowah, dependant on Joneer in Kokun, and the emperor moved

to Tummerla, fourteen cofs from Porundeh, with the grand camp.

A. H. 1103. The emperor moved to Bahadur Ghur, and Khan Zummaun
A. D. 1691. having brought Sambah to court, orders were given to put wooden
crowns upon the heads of him and his companions, and, mounting
them upon camels, after the manner of criminals in Perfia, to con-
dud; them to the prefence. The emperor gave thanks to God for
having thus put his enemy in his power, and raifed Khan Zummaun
to a higher rank, with the title of Fatteh Jung. Sambah had a red
hot iron drawn before his eyes ; and fome days after was, with his
favourite Kubkullufs, put to death. The emperor marched from
Bahadur Ghur to Buggoreh Gaum, fix cofs from Poonah on the
banks of the Beemrah.

Eaticaud Khan fought many fuccefsful battles in Kokun, and
blocked up Rairee, fo as to diftrefs the inhabitants greatly. Sewa-
jee’s fecond fon, Rama, after the capture of Sambah, fled with
fome principal chiefs to Seringapatam, and fyed Abdoolla Khan
Bareah was ordered to purfue him ; but Rama, near a fmall fort,
crofled the river, then very high, with two of his followers, and
got clear off. About eighty chiefs took Iheiter in the fort, and fall-
ing into the khan’s hands, he was ordered to keep them confined at
Beejapore. Rama Ihut himfelf up in the fort of Jinjee. Wojeh ad
Dien, the fon of Syed Lefhkar Khan, who commanded as his
father’s deputy in Beejapore, not attending ftridly to his prifoners,
they made their efcape, by the connivance of his fervants, and
rejoining their brethren, foon raifed difturbances. A few, who in

leaping

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

leaping from the walls had broken their limbs, were retaken under

the prifon, and fecured.

% .* '

Roh Oollah Khan, agreeably to the royal inftrudtions, moved to
Pernalleh, with an offer of terms to the inhabitants, but they would
not deliver up the place ; upon which he returned, and marched to
punifh the Mharattas round Rhamutpore, and the fort of Sittarra,
ip the country on the banks of the Kiftnah, which is within the
Beej apore boundaries. Orders were fent him to leave the army with
Khan Zummaun, who had been difpatched to command it, and
return to the prefence.

Eaticaud Khan having taken Rairee, and Saooh, the infant fon
of Sambah, with his wives and thofe of Rama, was exalted by the
title of Zoolfeccar Khan and the privilege of ufing the a maeh
meratib, which he had taken belonging to Sambah. The infant
Saooh was honoured with the title of raja, and a place within the
Ruggelah Bar allotted for his refidence. About this time prepara-
tions were made for fending off the heavy baggage to Aurungabad,
and it was reported that the emperor would return to Agra or
Dhely ; but news arriving, that a Pinder chief, named Eeluck,
having colle&ed together a numerous rabble, had taken Ferofe-
nuggur, Roh Oollah Khan was detached to that quarter, and all
thoughts of moving to Aurungabad were laid afide. The khan
marched with all fpeed, and Raow Dulput, who was then kella-
daar of Adonee, hearing of the diflurbance, fent Hafiz Morad Khan,
a principal officer of his own, with a confiderable force, who de-
feated the rebels ; but, as he had no neceffaries for a fiege, he
encamped at a little diflance from the fort, where he was joined
with a reinforcement and fome cannon, under Summunder Khan,
governor of Koolburga. Roh Oollah Khan commenced the liege
immediately on his arrival.

Raja

* A ftandard, on the point of which is a gilt fifh.

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

A. tt. 1105.
A.D. 1693.

Raja Bugwunt Sing Bondela dying, there remained no one of
the family of rajas Shujan Sing or Inder Sing to fucceed himj
upon which the rannee Amir Koor, grandmother to the deceafed
prince, placed in the raaje Oodut Sing, who was defcended from
Mudhoker Saw, father to Raja Ber Sing Deo, which was approved
of by the emperor, who conferred on him the title of raja, and a
fuitable munfub.

When the emperor heard of Rama’s being arrived at Jinjee, he
immediately difpatched Zoolfeccar Khan to beflege that place.
Roh Oollah Khan, having by ftratagem forced Eeluck to leave
Ferofenuggur, took pofleflion of the place, and then purfued him
to a great diftance. Upon his flying near Hyderabad, he was
feized by the fojedaur, and put to death.

Zoolfeccar Khan being arrived at Korumcundah, flxty cofs
from Jinjee, was attacked by a large army of the Mharattas, under
Ifmaeel Mukh, Ajeet Naire, and other zemindars ; and though he
had but a fmall force compared to the enemy’s, yet relying on the
imperial aufpices, he engaged, and giving them a complete over-
throw, marched on towards Jinjee in triumph, taking feveral forts
belonging to the enemy on the way.

The emperor encamped at Kulkulla, flxteen cofs from Koree
Gaum, and difpatched Jumlat al Moolk to the affiilance of Zool-
feccar Khan, who was furrounded by the Mharattas near Jinjee.
Several of the new Dekkan amras had deferted from him to Rama,
and the fcarcity of proviflons in his camp was grown to the moil
alarming pitch. Syed Leihkar Khan, upon this intelligence, was
ordered with treafure from the prefence and a large fupply of
proviflons to join Jumlat al Moolk AfTud Khan, upon whofe arrival
the army experienced fome relief. Zoolfeccar having given the
charge of his camp to Alimerdan Khan, fojedaur of Kinjee,

marched

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN. 8 1

marched fixty cofs into the territories of Tritchinopoly and Tan-
jore, from the zemindars of which he colledted confiderable con-
tributions, and then returned, after gaining feveral advantages over
the Mharattas.

Khan Jehaun Bahadur being called from Hindooftan, was gra-
ciouily received by the emperor, with whom he interceded for the
Mharatta chiefs, who had fent their vaqueels to him deliring his
mediation, and to be allowed to make their fubmiffions ; upon
which he was empowered to give them affurances under his own
feal, and fent his fon Himmut Khan Bahadur to bring Suntah Ghore-
ra, Dhunnah Jaddo, and others, to the prefence, but they would not
confent to this, being fearful of treachery. Himmut Khan returned
without effecting any thing, much to the vexation of his father,
who felt himfelf difgraced by being unable to fulfil his promife to
the emperor.

Ifmaeel Mukh, commander of the Dekkanees in Carnatic Hy-
derabad, having made his fubmiffions to Zoolfeccar Khan, whom
he joined with his relations and followers, was at his requeft ho-
noured with the rank of five thoufand and the title of khan, and
proportionate rewards were bellowed on the reft. Ajeet Naire
joined Rama in the fort of Jinjee.

Raow Dulput having refigned the government of the fort of a. H. 1104
Adonee, named by Aurungzebe, Imteauz Ghur, was fent with his A. D. 1692
followers as far as Sholapore to efcort the prince Bedar Bukht, eldeft
fon of Azim Shaw, who was on his return from the liege of Sinlin-
nee, in the Jaut country, near Agra. Being arrived at Bhome, he
heard that the Mharattas had blocked up the road, having plundered
Maleegaum, and put many of the inhabitants and travellers to
death ; upon which he fecured his baggage in a fort, and marched
in purfuit. Mamoor Khan, fon of Dilleer Khan, joined him on
Vol. II. M the

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

the route, and they came up with the enemy near Tuljapore. The
Mharattas were full twelve thoufand, and Dulput Roy’s force not
more than eight hundred ; but he had fome artillery, with which
he made great daughter among the enemy, who fled on the fall
of fome of their chiefs. A detachment from the prefence being
fent to watch them, Raow Dulput marched to Sholapore and met the
prince, whom he conducted to the emperor. He was now ordered
to efcort the Perfian ambaflador from the imperial camp to Aurung-
abad ; which having done, he returned, and was joined by a vafl:
number of all ranks, who had been waiting at that city for an efcort
to the grand army. Being arrived near Dewaree, intelligence was
brought him, that a large body of the enemy was approaching with
the hopes of plunder ; upon which he left his convoy in a place of
fecurity, and advancing with the troops, forced the enemy to en-
gage, and gave them a total defeat, taking prifoner the chief,
Lukko Sindia, with feveral other perfons of rank. A valuable
plunder fell into his hands. For this fervice, the emperor was
pleafed to reftore the five hundred to his munfub, which he had
taken off on his refigning the kelladaree of Adonee. The Mharattas
were now become fo imprefled by his gallantry, that they ever
after fled on hearing of his approach. He was next commanded
to efcort a fupply of treafure, arrived at Aurungabad from the
inner provinces, which he fuccefsfully performed. This year the
emperor ordered a magnificent palace to be eredted near Aurung-
abad, on the banks of the great refervoir.

A. H. no6. Raow Dulput having brought the treafure from Aurungabad,

A. D. 1694, notwithflanding the hourly intelligence of the fuperiority of the
enemy, arrived fafely at Sholapore. Agreeably to the imperial
orders, he gave a mufter of nine hundred excellent horfe above his
Compliment, whom he had called from his own jaghire to attend
him ; but though they did not meet with encouragement from his
snajefly, yet regarding his own reputation on the frequent fervices

upon

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

Upon which he was ordered, he chofe to be at the additional
cxpenfe of maintaining them out of his private revenue.

Beheramund Khan at Porundeh, hearing that the Mharattas
had marched towards Toomree, left his baggage at the former
place, and moved by forced marches to purfue them ; but meeting
with Ghazi ad Dien Khan, who was detached on this fervice, he
returned to his camp.

The prince Mahummud Kaum Bukhlh moving with a large
army, to befiege the fort of Wakin Kerah, was joined by Dulput
Raow, and on their arrival before the place, after a very fatiguing
march in the height of the rains, the liege was commenced.
Skirmilhes happened with the enemy’s troops every day.

As the liege of Jinjee had lingered to a great length, many of
the Mharatta munfubdars deferted to Rama, and a vail army was
advancing to relieve the place. Notwithstanding Jumlat al Moolk
was at Gurpah with a great force, orders were fent to the prince,
to leave Roh Oollah Khan for the liege of Wakin Kerah, to march
himfelf with all fpeed to Gurpah, and to difpatch Raow Dulput
with treafure and live thoufand horfe from thence to Jinjee to affilt
Zoolfeccar Khan.

Roh Oollah Khan took command of the liege, and the prince
marched for Jinjee by Kernole to Gurpah. Between Kernole and
Nudeall, where the road runs clofe under a range of mountains,
were feen the inhabitants of them, a wild people, whofe language
is not in the leaft underftood by the people of the villages below.
Their common food is honey, the roots of trees, plants, and the
flelh of animals caught in hunting. They are exceedingly black,
with long hair on every part of their bodies, and on their heads
wore caps made cf the leaves of trees. Each man had with him

M 2 unbarbed

S' 4

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unbarbed arrows and a bow for hunting. They moled: no one,
and live in caverns, or under the fhady branches of trees. The
prince prefented fome of them with gold and diver, but they did
not feem to put any value upon either, being quite unconcerned at
receiving it. Upon the firing of a fmall gun they darted up the
mountains with a furprizing fwiftnefs, uncommon to man.

* *

On the prince’s arrival at Gurpah, Affud Khan paid his refpedts,
and joining him with his army, proceeded on to Suddom, which is
fixty cofs from Jinjee. From this place Raow Dulput was dif-
patched with treafure and a large fupply of provifions to Zoolfeccar
Khan. Raow Gopal Sing Chanderout, Malojee Goherree, Seedee
Salim Khan, and other chiefs, accompanied him. The route lay
through a foreft, which had been totally impervious, until it was a
little cleared by the royal army having cut down many trees and
removed them. Horfemen paffed with much difficulty, but the
loaded elephants and camels were reduced to the laft diftrefs. The
underwood, which was thorny, was fo twined together, as to
make it impoffible to pafs either on the right or left of the road.
This tedious pafs extended for near forty cofs from Suddum to Kin-
jee. The laft is one of the feven chief worfhipping places of the
Hindoos, which are as follow ; Ajodeah or Oude, Mutterah, Pyauge
or Aleabad, Kafee or Banaras, Kinjee, Ontkaporee, and Dowaroutee.

Thefe feven have a fuperiority above all the other holy places of
refort. The environs of Kinjee cannot be lefs in extent than ten
cofs. There are two temples, Seo Kinjee and Bifhen Kinjee, the
walls round each of which are not lefs extenfive than the citadel of
Beejapore, and within them are innumerable edifices, the coft of
which cannot be afcertained by guefs. Within the town are many
fplendid temples, and without, round about it, a great variety.
The breadth of the town is trifling, being generally one ftreet of
fhops, behind which are the houfes and gardens of the inhabitants.

There

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

There are every way a great variety of tanks, which are all lined
with Hone, and have Heps defcending the whole length of each fide'
from top to bottom. Thefe are called in Hindoeh, Kund Gobind,
collectively, but each has a feparate name and feafon appointed for
bathing in it. The court of Seo Kinjee has been formed into a
citadel, with baftions and battlements ; and in a part of it refides
the fojedaur. Upon account of the frequent pafiage of troops, who
commit great excefies, this was but thinly inhabited ; but Bifhen
Kinjee, which is larger, and the cuftoms of it in the receipt of the
fojedaur, as part of his falary, was populous and flourifhing, being
reforted to by numerous pilgrims, who paid a toll for permiflion to
perform their devotions at the temples ; fo that a great fum is annu-
ally collected. From near the fort of Adonee, to Kernole, Kinjee,
Jinjee, and hence to the fea coaft, there is not a village without a
temple, dedicated either to Luchmun, or the god Ram. Raow
Dulput at length having arrived at Kinjee, took with him Ali-
merdan Khan, the fojedaur of that place, and moved to the fort
of Bindwaftnee, which is twelve cofs from Jinjee ; then marching
by Velore, a fort equal to Ahmednuggur, reached the neighbour-
hood of Jinjee. As Muttullub Khan, who came with Dulput
Raow, had an imperial firmaun for Zoolfeccar Khan, that noble-
man advanced to meet it fome diftance from his camp, the foldiers
of which received new life from the treafure and provifions, having
long been in extreme want. Zoolfeccar Khan having appointed
Raow Dulput to the command of his right wing, he went to recon-
noitre round the fort, and the enemy making a fally, the raow
detached a fmall body, who cut many of them to pieces.

Roh Oollah Khan, who had returned to the imperial camp
after being obliged to raife the fiege of Wakin Kerah, was taken
dangeroufly ill ; and feeing death approach, fent this verfe to
Aurungzebe : “ The broken-hearted in the night of abfence, his
t( life haftening to the clofe : with what pangs muft he die who

“ cannot

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

“ cannot fee thee !” The emperor repaired to his houfe without
delay, and on his arrival being announced, the dying chief exclaim-
ed in verfe, “ With what Satisfaction does the fubjeCt quit the
“ world, whofe dying moments you cheer with your prefence !”
He expired inftantly after uttering this, and the emperor retired
much affected at the lofs of fo old and faithful a minirter. The date
of his death is included in the following verfes : “ The navob, the
*c beams of whofe bounty gladdened the world, when the blaft of
f< death extinguished the lamp of his life, the heavens wept, and,
“ mourning, faid, a Life hath left the world." Sippedar Khan, the
fecond fon of Khan Jehaun, was raifed to the rank of three thou-
fand, with the government of the province of Aleabad.

A. H. 1107-8. The prince Mahummud Kaum Bukhfh, with Jumlat al Moolk
Allud Khan, being arrived in the vicinity of Jinjee, Zoolfeccar
Khan and other amras went to pay their refpeCts, and accompany
his highnefs to the fpot fixed for his encampment. The khan was
himfelf Rationed oppofite the great gateway of the fort, and a
rivulet ran through his lines. It was now judged proper to furround
the place. The camp of the prince and Jumlat al Moolk was fixed
toward the hill of Solungwerum, near the redoubt of Kifhenghur,
which joins to the fort, about a cofs and a half from Zoolfeccar
Khan’s pofi, and a trench thrown up round it. Ifmaeel Khan
Mukh, with others, was polled on the road of Carnaticghur behind
the fort. Near Shytaundoeh, where was a port by which the be-
fieged had a communication with the woods, and procured fupplies,
Kaker Khan was fiationed to prevent them.

As the enemy frequently at night difturbed the prince’s camp by
throwing rockets, Zoolfeccar Khan ported a body of his own troops
as an outport, when they ceafed their inlolence. Six thoufand of
the enemy made a fally from the gate facing the baggage camp,

and

* A pun on his name, it fignifying foul or life.

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

and were repulfed by Zoolfeccar Khan with Raow Dulput and other
officers, who purfued them clofe to the gate with great daughter. The
prince and Affiud Khan moved nearer to Zoolfeccar Khan, and fyed
Leffikar Khan took up their ground. The rains now fet in with
great fury ; grain again became exceedingly fcarce, and the condant
duties of the fiege beyond meafure fatiguing to the troops. The
enemy made a defperate Tally from the fort on the poll of Mahum-
mud Momin, and drove away his troops ; but, by the timely fuc-
cour of Dulput Raow, were again repulfed with great daughter.

At the concludon of the rains, Suntah, Dhunnah, and other chiefs,
with fifteen thoufand horfe, advanced for the affidance of Rama to
the relief of Jinjee; upon which, as there were not troops fufficient
to keep up the blockade and at the fame time oppofe the enemy in
the field, it was refolved, before their arrival, to recall feveral of
the detached pods to the main body. Orders were indantly dif-
patched to the different amras for this purpofe, upon which fyed
Lefhkar Khan and Kaker Khan joined immediately, but Ifmaeel
Khan Mukh, who was on the other face of the fort, made fome
delay, and his followers were employed in collecting their baggage
when Dhunnah arrived. The khan upon this formed his people as
well as he could, and moved towards the camp, but was attacked on
the march by Dhunnah’s army and a large body of the enemy from
the fort, with whom he fudained a running fight to the pod of Kaker
Khan, when night coming on the battle ceafed, but with the lofs of
great part of his men killed and taken prifoners. In the morning,
the khan, with his remaining followers, purfuipg his route over a
pafs, was himfelf wounded and taken prifoner, but releafed foon
after, by the kindnefs of Ajeet Naire on account of former friend-
Ihip.

All communication between the prefence and this army having
been long dopped, various idle reports of the emperor’s illnefs and

even

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

even death prevailed. The prince, on account of the advance of
the enemy from all quarters, thinking or feigning to believe fuch
tales, confulted apart with his own fervants, who imprudently gave
him advice to make terms with the enemy, and, having confined
AfTud ad Dowlah and Zoolfeccar Khan, to a dt independantly. Having
agreed with Rama, the prince refolved to join him, and fuddenly
ordered out his followers and baggage for march ; but Afiud Khan
being informed of this ra£h meafure, fent immediate advice of it to
Zoolfeccar Khan, alfo a meflage to the prince, requesting to know
the caufe of his preparing his troops in the night. To this an
anfwer was fent back, that he had received intelligence of the
enemy’s intending to make a night attack. Jumlat al Moolk re-
plied, that the alarm was falfe, and defired that the troops might
retire to their tents, and only the ufual guards be polled, as other
preparations only ferved to fpread falfe alarms, and dilhearten the
army.

The prince learning that Afliid Khan was upon his guard, and
had called together the imperial officers, thought proper to difmifs
his troops, and defer the execution of his plan to another oppor-
tunity. Zoolfeccar Khan being informed by his father of the
prince’s condudt, collected all his officers, and remained under arms
during the night. In the morning, after burffing as many of the
cannon as could not be carried off from the batteries, he moved
with all his troops to the grand camp. A body of the enemy from
the fort, after much cautious reconnoitring, advanced to deffroy
the works, while another attacked the line on its march.

Zoolfeccar Khan having joined his father, a council was held,
in which it was argued, that if the prince’s plan ffiould take effedt,
the emperor would be very juftly difpleafed, fo that it would be
moll advifeable to prevent it by putting the prince under confine-
ment. This being agreed upon, Afiud Khan, Zoolfeccar Khan,

and

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEBCKAN.

and other amras, palling by the audience tent, and from thence
upon their elephants within the netting, threw down the fkreens
of the dewan khaneh. The prince’s fervants were alarmed, and
the attendants of the mahal fired fome mufquetry.

The prince, difturbed at the intrufion, came running con-
fufedly from the fquare of the women’s apartments, when fome
foot foldiers belonging to Jellall Khan feizing his hands, brought
him without his fhoes before Jumlat al Moolk. Dulput Raow
feeing him in this humiliating fituation, immediately rode up, and
placed him upon his elephant, feating himfelf behind in the khow-
affeh. Affud Khan now addreffed the prince, telling him that the
late rumours were falfe, as the emperor was in health ; alfo, that
he had adted in fuch a manner as would not only difgrace himfelf,
but bring fhame upon his grey hairs. The enemy by their feints
kept the camp in conftant alarm all this day. As it was not fafe to
leave the prince in his own tents, Affud Khan brought him to his,
and having performed the cuflomary compliments upon his alight-
ing, ordered every thing neceflary for his accommodation. Syed
Lefhkar Khan was appointed to guard him, and the attendants of
the mahal were placed feparately.

Intelligence arrived that Suntah was following Dhunnah, and
had arriyed at Cavereepauk, ten cofs from Kinjee, and that Alimer-
dan Khan Fojedaur had marched to oppofe him, thinking himfelf
fuperior. Suntah had a very large force; and, in the adtion, a
numerous body of Bhela foot, which the khan had hired, deferted
to the enemy, fo that he was obliged to fly, and attempted to
regain the pofl: of Kinjee, but was taken prifoner with many of his
officers, and all his elephants, camels, horfes, and baggage were
plundered.

VOL. II.

Suntah

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

Suntah arrived fhortly after this at Jinjee, and the enemy
amounted now to twenty thoufand horfe, befides the garrifon of the
place. Of the imperial troops, great part were unavoidably em-
ployed in guarding the prince and the charge of the baggage. The
prince’s followers were difgufted, and would not ftir out of their
lines, and Maun Sing Rhatoree, an ameer of two thoufand, with
fome others, feigning illnefs, fkulked with the baggage. Zool-
feccar Khan, Dulput Raow, Serafrauz Khan, Fatteh Oollah Khan
Tooranee, Raow Kanoo Mharatta, and fome other chiefs, with
about two thoufand horfe, engaged the enemy and repeatedly de-
feated them, fo that they could make no imprefiion.

The fcarcity of grain became now fo great in the camp, as to
be intolerable : upon which Zoolfeccar Khan with his brave friends
marched to procure fupplies at the fort of Bindwaftnee, twelve cofs
from Jinjee, and arrived during the night. The Tooran Moguls,
under cover of the dark, plundered the corn merchants, and proper
order was loft by the impatience of the troops. In the morning, the
khan collecting what was left, returned towards the camp. The
enemy had collected at Deoee to oppofe him, and attacked on all
quarters. Raow Dulput on the flank repeatedly repulfed them,
aflifted the front when hard prefled, and often took charge of the
rear. This night was pafled near Jinjee, and in the morning the
enemy in great force charged on all quarters, firing fo quickly, that
the grain merchants were thrown into confufion. Their markfmen
aimed chiefly at the amras’ elephants, and many fhot pafled over
Raow Dulput, who alfo ufed his matchlock, and wounded fome of
the enemy’s officers. The bullocks with grain now funk into the
mud in eroding a fwamp of rice fields, and even the horfe could
move but with ilownefs and difficulty. The ammunition was
alfo nearly expended. At this juncture, jnoft of Raow Dulput’s
cavalry moved to the right, where was a found road, and thus
became feparated from the infantry, fo that not above eighty horfe

remained

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKICAN.

remained round the raow’s elephant. The enemy feeing this,
detached a party of their foot to an eminence near, who fired fo
quick, that matters became defperate. The raow had ftopped to help
the camels and bullocks out of the fwamp, and during this the reft
of the troops had marched on. The raow, determined to fell his
life dearly, flood- firmly, and fhortly after was joined by Serafrauz
Khan Dekkanee with five or fix thoufand horfe, when he charged
the enemy, and drove about twelve thoufand near half a mile ; then
halting till the bullocks were difengaged from the fwamp, he flowly
followed the baggage. The firing now became lefs frequent, and
being arrived at a brook, where fome fmall pieces of artillery were
fwamped, the khan fixed to them ftrong ropes, which having put
round the elephants, they drew them out. The enemy were ap-
palled at fuch gallantry, and went off towards Jinjee. Zoolfeccar
Khan arrived at the camp about nightfall, and fully reprefenled to
Afiud Khan the raow’s behaviour, on which he conferred many
praifes.

The fupply now brought was but fmall, and the fcarcity foon
became again diftrefling. Some of the followers ventured to the
enemy’s camp with money, and were allowed to buy fufiicient for a
meal, which they ate on the fpot, but not to bring the fmaheft
quantity away. The enemy from morning till night daily made
attacks on the camp, in which was now neither provifions, money,
nor hopes of any fpeedy fuccour, fo that affairs were reduced to
the lafi: pitch of diftrefs. At this alarming crifis, Rama, contrary
to the advice of all his chiefs, propofed a truce, that the army
fhould move to Bindwaftnee, when he would prepare a proper
offering for his majefty. Dulput Raow repeatedly advifed Afiud
Khan and Zoolfeccar Khan againfi: compliance, obferving, that it
could only be attended by difgrace, and offering to advance thirty
or forty thoufand rupees for the immediate ufe of the troops, it
being fafer at all events to wait a few days longer, and expeft

N 2 relief

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

relief from the emperor, than make terms. On the other hand,
all the foldiers, particularly the artillery, declared they would not
remain another day, as they mull inevitably die of hunger ; fo that
Alfud Khan was reduced to comply with their clamours, and make
a truce.

Alfud Khan with the prince moved at twelve o’clock the next
day, but the horfes, camels, and other animals of the camp, were
fo weakened by famine, that they could not take away the baggage,
great part of which was fet fire to, and much left on the ground.
The Mharatta foldiers came into the camp freely, and feeing great
quantities of valuable baggage lying about, promifed the owners
that whatever they left behind fhould be fafely conveyed to them ;
but about a thoufand of them followed the army on the march, and
plundered the draggling followers. The exhaulted troops arrived
in three days at Bindwaftnee, and grain was procured. News now
arrived that Cafim Khan was advanced as far as Cavereepauk with
large fupplies, and that Suntah had marched to attack him, but he
took timely Ihelter in a fort with his convoy. Zoolfeccar Khan,
leaving the prince in the fort of Bindwaltnee, marched to Cafim
Khan’s affiltance, and brought the fupplies in fafety to his camp.
The reports which had prevailed were now happily contradicted,
and die troops infpired with new confidence. As feveral zemin-
dars had attacked and plundered former convoys on the road, Zool-
feccar Khan and Cafim Khan, having marched, collected con-
fiderable contributions from them. When the news of the fiege of
Jinjee being raifed reached him, the emperor was greatly dilpleafed,
and ordered the prince and Alfud Khan to his prefence. Great
favours were conferred on the former, but much coolnefs /hewn to
the latter. This year a fortification was begun round Begumpore
at Aurungabad, to protect it from the Mharattas.

When

AURUNG ZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

When Zoolfeccar Khan, upon raifing the fiege of Jinjee, re- A. H. 1109.
moved to Bindwaflnee, the enemy poffeffed themfelves of feveral A. D. 1697.
fmall forts. He now marched to regain them, and florming the
fort of Permacoil, put the garrifon to the fword. He arter this
alfo took many fortified temples, which abound through both the
Carnatics, and were built in former ages by the rajas, before the
Mahummedan conquers. When he arrived near Tanjore, the
zemindar of Tritchinopoly fent a confiderable offering, with requefls
of affiflance to recover feveral places which the raja of Tanjore had
taken from him. Zoolfeccar Khan complied with the requefl, and
obliged the Tanjoree-to reflore them. The raja of Tritchinopoly
was an infant, and the power of the flate veiled in his mother, a
woman of great abilities, who conducted affairs with a mafculine
courage. Here is a fumptuous temple, built by the rajas, on the
banks of the Caveree.

Zoolfeccar Khan overran Tanjore, took much plunder and a
very large contribution from the raja after which he demanded one
from the zemindar of Palimcote, but he ufing many evafions, the
khan befieged the place, which held out, the inhabitants making
feveral bold fallies, for five days ; when Raow Dulput, with the
lofs of fifty Raajepootes, got poffeflion of the town, and the polygars
evacuated the fort by a wicket in the night, but they were intercept-
ed and plundered by the troops. Zoolfeccar Khan, after the cap-
ture of this poll, placed tannas in Annetwaul, and returned to the
neighbourhood of Jinjee. Having doubts of the fidelity of Ajeet
Naire, he communicated them to the emperor, who ordered him
to be put to death ; which was done by flratagem, as he was too
powerful to be punifhed openly. All his women burnt with him.

His effe&s w£re plundered by the troops.

Affud Khan was now called to the prefence, and again reflored A. H. mo
to the imperial favour. Zoolfeccar Khan having fent, under the A. D. 1698

charge

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEfCKAN.

charge of Syed Kubbeer, the contributions of the zemindars of
Carnatic to the prefence, was diftinguifhed by promotion and other
honours. The emperor with the royal family went to pafs the
Ramazan at Beejapore, and left the charge of the grand camp to
Ailud Khan. At this time, the wells in the city of Beejapore dried
up entirely, and the inhabitants were obliged to bring water from
a diftance.

The prince Mahummud Mauzim, with his family, had long
been confined clofely in the Ruggelah Bar, and fuffered greatly
from his father’s difpleafure. Mahummud Azim Shaw was dan-
geroufly indifpofed with a dropfy, and fome ill conduct of the prince
Kaum Bukhfli had caufed him to be kept alfo in ftriCt confinement.
At length the emperor, moved by their diftreffes and paternal af-
fection, ordered the prince’s tents to be pitched without the Rug-
gelah Bar, and permitted them more liberty. After this they were
gradually reflored to their jaghires and commands. The prince
Mahummud Mauzim was honoured with the title of Bahadur Shaw
and government of Cabul. On taking • leave, he was permitted to
beat the nobut from the royal quarters. Several amras were alfo
fent with him. The imperial camp moved to Birmahpore, called
now Iflaumpore, twelve cofs from Sholapore, on the banks of the
Beemrah river.

Zoolfeccar Khan befieged the fort of Velore, and had reduced
the place to great diflrefs, when Dhunnah and Suntah approached
with a confiderable army to its relief. Dhunnah arrived firft, and
the khan having fent his baggage and women, under charge of
Raow Dulput, to the fort of Arcot, eight cofs diftant, marched to
oppofe the enemy; who then retired to Tirivaddee, where they
furrounded Saadutmund Khan Ghoree, the fojedaur, but the khan
arriving fpeedily, gave Dhunnah a complete defeat, after which he
returned to recommence the liege.

Suntah

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

Suntah following Dhunnah, arrived in the Beejapore Carnatic,
where Cafim Khan, the fojedaur, joined by Khanehzad Khan and
Amaun Oollah Khan, prepared to oppofe him ; but the zemindars
joining Suntah, he was greatly fuperior to the royalifts. Cafim Khan
fled to the fort of Dundoore, but there being fcarce any provifions in
the place, many men, elephants, camels, horfes, and bullocks, began
to die of hunger. Every hope of relief was cut off ; and about a
month had paffed in this diflreffed fituation, when a capitulation
was unavoidably entered into. The effects, which had efcaped the
plunder in the field, were all given up to the enemy, and the troops
came out in a mod: wretched and famifhed fituation. Cafim Khan
died during the blockade : the other amras, after recruiting them-
felves and men at Adonee, moved to the prefence ; but the emperor,
being much difpleafed, would not admit them to an audience, and
detached them to various places. Khanehzad Khan was appointed
kelladaar of Mahummudabad Bieder; Sufffhekun Khan fojedaur of
Dhamounee; Mahummud Moraud Khan fojedaur of Godereh in
Guzarat ; and Ram Chund, fon of Raow Dulput, kelladaar of
Ghur Nummoona ; but he fled from thence to his father’s zemin-
daree with intention of taking forcible pofTeflion ; upon which the
emperor fent orders to the fojedaurs of that quarter, either to take
him prifoner, or put him to death.

Suntah after his victory moved towards Jinjee ; when Zoolfeccar
Khan marching from Arcot gave him a total defeat near the fort of
Arnee. Himmut Khan, fon of Khan Jehaun Bahadur, being fent
to the aid of Khanehzad Khan, was killed by an arrow in an action
with the enemy, and foon after Khan Jehaun died in the imperial
camp. Aurungzebe did him the honour of a vifit in his lafl mo-
ments. His fortune was confifcated to the treafury, but the amount
did not anfwer expectations. He was a nobleman of true dignity ;
and, being the emperor’s fofter brother, thought himfelf fuperior
to all the other amras. He was expenfively magnificent in his equi-
pages.

^5 AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

pages, houfes, and attendants. He ufed great freedom of fpeech
with Aurungzebe, who was often difpleafed with his repartees,
particularly, when on afking his advice in the affairs of Dekkan,
he talked in a free ftrain of cenfure on the imperial operations.

A. H. ii ii» This year was employed in purfuing the Mharattas, who plun-
A. D. 1699* dered Dekkan in parties, as far as Ballaghaut.

A. H. 1112. Zoolfeccar Khan, leaving his e baggage at Arcot, marched to
A.D. 1700. colled: contributions, which he exaded from the zemindars of Tan-
jore and other diflrids ; but they did not fuffice to pay up the troops.
He then moved near Jinjee, where inteftine divifions had happened
among the Mharatta chiefs, which gave hopes of taking the place.

Dhunnah, having difagreed with Suntah, reprefented to Rama,
that this chief had ufurped dangerous power, from his large army,
and had formed plans of treafon againft him. Upon this, Rama
difpatched Amreet Raow, a chief of much reputation, with his
own and Dh-unnah’s troops, to attack Suntah, who defeated them.
Rama and Dhunnah retreated to Jinjee, and Suntah returned to his
own country, much difpleafed at their treatment; but he was
killed in a furprize fhortly after, by the brother in law of Amreet
Raow, who cut off his head, and fent it to the emperor. Dhunnah
now acquired great power among the Mharattas, and formed a
party with Ram Chund Pundit, Rama’s minifter; but Perferam,
another principal Pundit, favoured the caufe of Ranoo, Suntah’s fon,
and his uncle Herjee Hindoo Raow.

At this time Rama entreated peace on certain conditions, and
fent his fon Kerrun under care of Ram Chund Harrah to Zoolfeccar
Khan, who forwarded his petition to court, and encamped during
the rains at Bindwaflnee. The emperor would not liften to Rama’s
offers of fubmiffion, but ordered Zoolfeccar Khan to commence the

AURUNGZEBE’s operations in dekkan.

liege of Jinjee; upon which Kerrun was fent back to his father.
Zoolfeccar Khan was honoured by the title of Nulferut Jung;
upon which he made a great feaft, and conferred rich prefents upon
his officers and troops.

Nulferut Jung marched, and encamped before Jinjee, of which
he began the liege without delay. He himfelf chofe the poll of
Soulungwerum, Dulput Raow was Rationed before the gateway
and on the back of the fort. Ram Chund Harrah between it and
Chummar Tungara, a redoubt which was taken by Rorm two days
after by Daood Khan Punnee. Here was the wicket of Shitaun
Dooee, and Nuflerut Jung might have taken the fort of Jinjee in
an inftant if he had chofen to follow his blow by this palfage ; but,
like many other generals, he wilhed to prolong the war. Indeed
the total ruin of the Mharatta power might have been effected
with eafe many years before, but the amras delayed on purpofe, and
fecretly alfifted each other to draw out the war to a never ending
length, for their own advantage ; alfo dreading, that when the
emperor Ihould have finally reduced Dekkan, he would carry his
arms to Candahar and Bulkh, which expeditions were difagreeable
to the nobility, who did not wilh to encounter the hardlhips of the
north.

Rama being alarmed, left his family, and fled to Tanjore.
Raow Dulput, who was ftationed near the gateway, carried his
approaches to Kilhen Ghur, which joins to Jinjee, and was ad-
vanced near the wall, when Zoolfeccar Khan thought proper to
recall him to his own poll:, and Daood Khan was Rationed at
Chuttun Ghur. A perfon having found out a path which led
through the woods into the fort, communicated his difcovery to
Daood Khan, who went himfelf with fome attendants to furvey it,
and finding it paflable, the Rorm was immediately ordered. Raow
Dulput with his followers foon gained the outer wall "in fpite of
Von. II. O all

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

A. H. 1 1 13.
A. D. 1701.

all oppofition ; upon which the befieged fled towards the citadel,
called Calicote, but the Raajepootes were too fwift for them, and
put to death great numbers ; alfo taking five elephants belonging
to Rama. The furvivors took refuge in a building called Rauje-
ghur. The wicket of Shitaun Dooee, which had been bricked up,
was now opened, and Zoolfeccar Khan entered with his people.

Daood Khan alfo entered at another part, and the inhabitants
here afked for quarter, which was granted them, but an immenfe
plunder fell to the victors. Rama’s family having barricadoed
themfelves in Raujeghur, the ftrongeft part of Jinjee, entreated
terms ; upon which Zoolfeccar Khan came himfelf to the gate,
and fent in by a ladder Ram Chund Harrah to give them afliirances
of protection and good treatment. Palanquins were fent for the
women and children, who came out and were faved from violence ;
but one of Rama’s wives, fearing difhonour, threw herfelf from the
top of the wall, and was dallied to pieces on the rocks below.
Zoolfeccar Khan remained in the fort to colleCt the plunder and
poll guards but the other amras returned to their feveral Rations.
About four thoufand women and children were taken, but very few
fighting men. Jinjee is the general name for the whole of the for-
tifications, though there are fix forts and a large town, extenfive
tanks, groves of cocoanut trees, and gardens. The khan having given
orders for the repair of the fort and an inveftigation of the private
paths, appointed Ghuzzunfir Khan kelladaar for the prefent, and
came out with Rama’s women and children under his own pro-
tection, to the camp.

This year the imperial camp was overflowed by the rifing of the
Beemrah, and great numbers of people drowned ; but at length his
majefty penned a devout prayer, which upon being thrown into the
water, it fell inftantly. The prince Bahadur Shaw was appointed
to the government of Cabul.

.Zoolfeccar

AURUNG^EBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

Zoolfeccar Khan Nuflerut Jung was called to the prefence
from Arcot. The emperor marched in perfon againft the enemy,
and after taking in three days the fort of Buflimt Gurrah, fat down
before Sittarrah, a place of great ftrength. Bhaow Kifhna, a
Mharatta chief, with- fifteen thoufand horfe, eroded the river Ner-
budda, and after laying wade Dhamounee and fome other diftriCts,
retreated. This’ was the firfl: time that a Mharatta chief had ven-
tured to extend their depredations acrofs the Nerbudda. Ranoo,
Suntah’s fon, with Harjee Gorereh, commonly called Hindoo
Raow, in conjunction had collected great riches by their incurfions,
and Rama, at the head of a vaft body, alfo committed great excefies
in the imperial foubah of Berar.

Sultan Bedar Bukht was detached to punifh thefe banditti, alfo
Zoolfeccar Khan who, leaving his heavy baggage at Sholapore,
met the prince near the town of Jarnate, and marched in purfuit of
Rama, who fled before him, by the road of Porundeh, and crofied
the Beemrah into his own country. Dhunnah with other chiefs
marched for Birmahpore, where was the imperial baggage camp,
and had the khan not followed by very quick marches, they would
moft probably have plundered it. On the day of his approach they
fled towards Sittarrah Ghur, and being arrived near the royal camp,
attempted the plunder of the grand granaries ; but Zoolfeccar Khan
coming up, gave them a total defeat. The evening of the battle
Beheramund Khan, meer bukhfhi, joined the khan, and requefted
that he would permit him to take the credit of the victory, in order
to give him reputation with the emperor. The khan confented j
and accordingly the bukhfhi and his followers were honoured with
the royal thanks and honorary drefles. Some days' after, Zoolfeccar
Khan requefted an audience, and was gracioufly received by the
emperor, who difpatched him with other amras to obferve the
enemy, and prevent them from committing excefies on the baggage
camp at Birmahpore. On his arrival, he learned that Ouzbuk

O 2 Khan,

A. H. 1114,
A. D, 1702.

100

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

Khan, with a large convoy of money and provisions, was arrived at
Roigurrah, twelve cofs off, but had halted, not daring to advance
through fear of the enemy, who were on the watch for fo rich a
prize. The khan upon this marched to join him ; then leaving the
baggage under his charge, purfued the enemy four and twenty cofs
from the morning until nine o’clock at night, not giving them the
fmalleft refpite or himfelf refreshment. He then returned, and
conducting the convoy in fafety to Birmahpore, halted fome time in
that neighbourhood.

Intelligence arrived that Rama dying of the fmall pox, was
fucceeded by his fon Kerrun, who furvived him but a few days,
and was fucceeded by his fon Sewa, an infant of only two years,
under the guardianship of Ram Chund Pundit, who took up his
refidence with his charge in the fortrefs of Kalneh, and was unani-
moufly obeyed by the other chiefs. Nufferut Jung purfued a body
of the enemy by Sholapore, and croffed the Beemrah at Tuljapore,
into their country.

Ruttun Sing, fon of Gopal Sing, who had been fent by his
father to manage his zemindaree, kept back the revenues to his own
ufe j upon which Gopal Sing complained to the emperor, who
ordered Ruttun Sing to the prefence, but he would not obey.
However after fome time he made his fubmillions, through Mukh-
tar Khan, the governor of Malwa, and embraced the Mahummedan
faith ; which pleafing Aurungzebe, he conferred upon him his fa-
ther’s territories. Gopal Sing being difgufted at this, fled from the
fultan Bedar Bukht’s camp, and endeavoured to recover his country
by rebellion ; but, not fucceeding, he fought a Shelter in the rana
of Odipore’s dominions. The emperor at this time Shewed but
little favour to his faithful and moSt ufeful fubjeCts the Raajepootes,
which greatly cooled their ardour for his fervice.

Zoolfeccar

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

101

Zoolfeccar, after eroding at Tuljapore, purfued the enemy A. H. 1115
wherever they fled, and had feveral fevere engagements, in all A. D. 1703
which he was victorious. Diflentions had happened between Dhun-
nah and Ranoo ; but they now faw it their intereft to unite, and
agreed to meet for a reconciliation, and to form a plan of operations,
near Koolburga. The khan, having purfued Dhunnah to the neigh-
bourhood of Tuldoorg, left his baggage at Sholapore, and marched
towards the town of Monillah, which was the place of conference
fixed upon by the two chiefs. Dhunnah upon this ventured to en-
gage, and was defeated. He after this met Ranoo, who brought a
vafi: body to join him, at Firofeabad, eight cofs from Koolburga.

Being reconciled, the two chiefs formed a regular camp, near the
ruined fort of Firofeabad, on the banks of the Beemrah. Zoolfeccar
Khan, though his force was comparatively fmall with that of the
enemy, which confided of thirty five thoufand horfe, repeatedly de-
feated them, and, at length, after a fpace of eight months, they
were rendered unable to keep the field, and feparating their forces,
took fhelter in the woods. After a continuance of fome months,

Ranoo went towards Pernalleh, and Dhunnah towards Wakin Kerah.

The khan, upon intelligence of this, leaving Birmahpore upon his
right, marched, and encamped near the fort of Mujhunder, be-
longing to the emperor. The rains now fet in, and the horfes,
elephants, and camels had been fo harafled by conflant marching
as to be quite unferviceable. The khan had in this laft campaign,
in marches, countermarches, and purfuits, moved above two thou-
fand cofs, fo that the whole army was exceflively fatigued. Intel-
ligence now arrived, that a body of the enemy committed depreda-
tions between Birmahpore and the royal camp ; upon which the
emperor ordered the khan to take poft where he thought proper
between thefe two ftations, to keep open the communication. The
khan adted accordingly, drifting his ground from place to place, as
' he faw occafion. Daood Khan Punnee was detached from him to

the

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN,

the fojedaury of Carnatic Hyderabad, fo that but a very fmall force
> remained.

The emperor was ftill engaged in befieging the fort of Sittarrah
Ghur, which yet held out againft his arms with an obitinate bravery,
and found means to procure daily fupplies by private rpads. The
belieged alfo made feveral fallies by night on the camp, but were
always driven back with lofs.

Terbeut Khan, commander of the artillery, at length carried
two mines under a baftion, which were fprung, and blew up about
four hundred of the belieged who were ftationed upon the walls of
the fort; but Terbeut Khan having negledted to give proper infor-
mation to the troops in the batteries, about three thoufand of them,
with feveral chiefs of note, were killed by the explofion : which
misfortune brought upon him the royal difpleafure, and the refent-
ment of the whole army, as every one had loll a relation or friend.
The governor of the fort, finding it vain to Hand out longer, begged
quarter ; and, at the interceflion of fultan Bedar Bukht, was par-
doned, and promoted to the! rank of five thoufand. The emperor
named this fort Azim Tarrah; and, after fettling a proper garrifon,
moved to befiege Perlee, another firrong fortrels not far dillant.
Fatteh Oollah Khan was commanded to conduct the liege, and
having found an opportunity of planting wooden ladders on the
walls, about three hundred Moguls and others were killed in an
unfuccefsful llorm ; but the enemy foon after fubmitted on capitu-
lation, which was granted by his majelly, at the intercefiion of the
prince Mahummud Azim Shaw. This place was named by the
emperor Norufs Tarrah.

After this, the emperor marched, though in the height of the
rains, which was fo dillrefling to the army, that even many noble-
men were obliged to travel on foot. He halted for fome days at

Bhofegurrah,

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKICAN.

Bhofegurrah, which was new named Iflaum Tarrah : the prince
Azim Shaw was fent to Malwa, as the rana had fhewn figns of
difafiedtion by giving fhelter to Gopal Sing Chanderaowt, and a
rebellion in that quarter was expedited, more efpecially as Shujaut -
Khan, the governor of Ajmere, was lately dead, and a new one
not yet appointed. Ghazi ad Dien Khan, who had been fent to
corredt the zemindar of Deogur, was recalled to the prefence, and
.the prince ordered to punifh him on his march. Upon this account
he halted fome time at Boorahanpore, and was then ordered to
take upon him the government of Guzarat.

Dulput Roy was honoured with the command of the advanced
body of Zoolfeccar Khan’s army, in the room of Daood Khan Pun-
nee ; and though he had before kept up a force out of his own
purfe, beyond his compliment, he on this occalion greatly encreafed
the number for his own reputation.

The emperor moved to encamp at Khouaflpore for the remain-
der of the rains, which were fo violent, that the camp was over-
flowed by the river, and a great number of people and cattle
perifhed. The waters rofe up to the gate of the royal mufic room,
and danger was apprehended to the apartments of his majefty, who
was at this time much indifpofed with a fore in the right foot,
which refitted all the power of medicine, and was very painful.

The prince Bedar Bukht was fent towards Mortizaabad for the
fiege of Pernalleh, and Zoolfeccar Khan was ordered to attend him.
He accordingly joined the prince at Moorje, where he halted fome
time on account of the overflowing of the waters , but repeated in-
ftrudtions coming from court to proceed, the prince at length moved
by forced marches, and fat down before Pernalleh. Zoolfeccar
Khan made an excurfion as far as the fort of Khalneh. The

emperor

103

104

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

emperor moved from KhouafTpore to Moorje, in order to give
inftrudtions and aflift the liege.

Dhunnah with a great body of Mharattas having plundered in
the neighbourhood of the imperial camp, Hummeed ad Dien Khan
and Munaim Khan were detached againft him ; but a great number
of their followers being killed, they required reinforcements, and
Zoolfeccar Khan was ordered to their afliftance. The enemy fled
immediately on hearing of his approach, and he purfued them as far
as Jugoanee in Beejapore, when they made a Hand, and were de-
feated with great lofs. The next day a frefh body appeared, and
Raow Dulput purfued them without halting for thirty cofs, with
much daughter. Zoolfeccar Khan after this moved back with fpeed
to Pernalleh, left the enemy ftiould attempt to difturb the fiege of
that place.

All the Mharatta chiefs after fome time united under Ram
Chund Pundit, and moved to the neighbourhood of Pernalleh,
where they plundered the camp followers and travellers without
mercy. A number of grain merchants coming with provisions, the
enemy furrounded them at Rollapore, only five cofs from the camp ;
upon which the prince fent Serdaur Khan Dekkanee to their aSfift-
ance ; but the enemy being in great force, he could only adt upon
the defenfive, of which he fent notice to the prince, who imme-
diately diSpatched Nuflerut Jung, Raow Dulput, and Ram Sing
Harrah to his relief. Raow Dulput arriving firft, his Raajepootes
killed about four hundred of the enemy’s foot. Zoolfeccar Khan
remained under arms the whole night, and in the morning the
enemy, feeing no advantage was to be gained, took to flight. The
whole imperial army was much diftrefled this year, by fatiguing
marches, fcarcity of provisions, and other inconveniencies.

Ghazi

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

Ghazi ad Dien Khan being recalled from Deogur to the pre- a. H. 1116.
fence, was ordered to purfue Ranoo, who committed depredations A. D. 1704.
in the neighbourhood of Koolburga ; and alfo to puniffi Ponapah
Pinder, the raow of Wakin Kerah. Ghazi ad Dien marched
towards Koolburga, and the emperor to carry on the liege of Per-
nalleh with greater vigour. Mucklifs Khan, lecond buklhi, died,
and Khanehzad Khan, fon of Roh Oollah Khan, being recalled
from Hyderabad, was honoured with his father’s title and the office
of grand fteward of the imperial houfehold. When the emperor
arrived in the vicinity of Pernalleh, the prince with all his officers
received the honour of an audience. Abou Plouffun, the depofed
king of PXyderabad,. died at this time in his confinement in the for-
trefs of Dowlutabad. Dhunnah and other Mharatta chiefs, ad-
vanced to the grand baggage camp at Birmahpore, and the enemy
even invaded Khandeffie and the province of Malwa. Zoolfeccar
Khan purfued and defeated Dhunnah.

Jumlat al Moolk Affiud Khan was recalled to the prefence, and
Ghazi ad Dien Khan entrulled with the charge of the baggage
camp in his room. The fort of Pernalleh was at length taken,
after which the emperor moved with the grand camp, and cantoned
in the vicinity of Kuttafon and Burrah Butchgaum. Beheramund
Khan was fent to befiege the fort of Chundun Mundun, which the
enemy marched to relieve ; but Zoolfeccar Khan advancing in the
night, when it rained very hard, came upon their army by furprize,
and defeated them. The emperor now marched to befiege the fort
of Khalneh, and was pleafed to exalt Afiud Khan to the title of
ameer al amra.

Zoolfeccar Khan again defeated a great body of Mharattas
in the neighbourhood of Porundeh, and at feveral other places.

During this purfuit, he palled through part of Berar, which was
much laid wafte by the enemy ; but they had fpared fome pergun-
Vol. II. P nahs.

io6

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

nahs, the zemindars of which were regular in the payment of the
choute. The landholders of Berar and Khandefhe joined the
enemv, to the number of fixty thoufand, and oppofed Zoolfeccar
Khan, whofe force was but fmall, and Alimerdan Khan, the nazim
of Berar, durft not move •‘ from Elichpore, the capital of the pro-
vince, out of dread of the enemy ; upon which the khan marched
to within ten cofs of that city, and fummoned him to join; which
at length he did, but every day begged to be difinified. Zoolfeccar
Khan, regarding the good of the imperial fervice, would not com-
ply with his requeft.

One day, the khan having made a tedious forced march, came
to an eminence where he defigned to halt for the night ; but per-
ceiving the enemy’s camp, Dulput Raow was difpatched to attack
it with his advanced corps, and the khan followed to fupport him
with the whole army. The enemy were foon put to the route, and
fled feventeen cofs without once looking behind them, fo great was
the dread of the khan’s arms. He now permitted Alimerdan Khan
to return to Elichpore, and was viflted by Khodabundeh Khan,
fon to the late ameer al amra Shaifteh Khan, but this nobleman
would not move the fmallefl: diftance with him out of his diltridts,
fo that Zoolfeccar Khan was left with not more than three thoufand
horfe. Notwithftanding, he ftill purfued the enemy, who amounted
to about fixty thoufand, to the fort of Kolafs Ghur, in the Hyder-
abad country. It is the cuftom of the Mharattas to prefs chiefly on
the rear of an enemy, and they followed this mode on the prefent
crifis, but were as often repulfed by the bravery of Ram Sing
Harrah and Dulput Raow.

Zoolfeccar having in the purfuit expended moft of his ammu-
nition, found it advifeable to retire to Mahummudabad Bieder for
frelh fupplies, which having procured, he again marched after the
enemy, and gave them a complete defeat on the banks of the

river

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN. 107

river Baumgunga ; after which they feparated, and fled to the hills
in different bodies. They foon again threatened Berar, but Zool-
feccar Khan, by forced marches, advanced to the borders of that
province, when they thought proper to retreat. At this time, from
the river Nerbudda, through all Dekkan, Khandefhe, Berar, and
Kokun, in every diftridt, the Mharattas fwarmed like ants or locuffs.

It may not be unneceflary to mention the caufes of the encreafe of
thefe plunderers, who, though always defeated by the royal troops
in the field, yet by their fudden inroads often laid whole diftri&s
wafte, before armies could arrive to puniffi them.

In the reign of Shaw Jehaun the government of provinces was
lodged with amras of the firfl: rank, who kept a large force on foot,
but were now held by new nobles, of inferior rank, poor, and
rapacious, who neglected to maintain proper troops, and at the
fame time opprefled the people. The zemindars would not obey
fojedaurs without troops, and became rebellious, and remifs in their
payments. As the fojedaurs could not force them, they were glad
to content themfelves with what they could get ; and in order to
lead a quiet life, entered into fecret agreements with them, and
winked at their difobedience, which made them ffill more infolent.

In the countries dependant on Hyderabad and Beejapore, which
before their conquefl: maintained above two hundred thoufand horfe,
there were not now ffadoned above thirty four thoufand. The
jaghiredars could not get poflfeflion of their jaghires for want of
troops; and if they did, their holding them for any time was fa
uncertain, that they did not confider the eafe of the farmers, but
opprefled them for money by every mode that avarice could devife,
fo that they entered into combinations with the enemy. While the
newly conquered countries were thus unfettled, the antient terri-
tories of Dekkan were not lefs troubled by the tyranny of governors,
and the frequent changes of them and the jaghiredars, who were

P 2 obliged

AURUNGZEBE's OPERATIONS IN DEFCKAN.

obliged not only to fupply their own neceffities, but furnifh large
bribes to the civil officers about the court. It was reprefented to
the emperor, that the zemindars were in confederacy with the
enemy ; upon which he ordered all their weapons of defence to be
feized, and this left them ’an eafy prey to invaders, whom at lafl
they joined for felf-fecurity.

Contributions were then collected in lieu of regular revenues,
and the parties fent every where to colledt fupplies for the grand
camp were guilty of every fort of excefs. Added to this, the col-
lectors of the odious religious capitation, forced millions from the
farmers, and accounted but for fmall fums with the royal treafury.
Whenever the emperor appointed a jaghiredar, the Mharattas ap-
pointed another to the fame diftrieft, and both collected as they
found opportunity; fo that, in fact, every place had two maters.
The farmers, thus oppreffed, left off cultivating more ground than
would barely fublift them, and in their turns became plunderers
for want of employment.

The emperor having taken moffi of the Mharatta fortreffes,
they were left without any refource but plunder, out of which they
paid a fhare to their chief, the fon of Rama. Many of the powerful
difaffected zemindars joined them, fo that they amounted to above
an hundred thoufand horfe. The imperial amras, deprived of their '
revenues from the jaghires, had recourfe to falfe mutters, and did
not keep up above half their compliments of men; fo that detach-
ments could not be fent every where to puniffi the invaders, and
the grand army was always employed in fieges, which left the
Mharattas at liberty to plunder almoft without moleftation, but
particularly during the liege of Khaineh, their exceffes were un-
bounded. They flopped every communication of fupply to the
imperial camp, where numbers perifhed by famine ; and their info-
lence grew to fuch a pitch, that they once a week offered up mock

prayers

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

S09

prayers for the long life of Aurungzebe, whofe mode of making
war was fo favourable to their invalions and depredations. Added
to this, the imperial troops were tired out with a conftant campaign
of above twenty years, and grew difgufted and remifs in their duty.

Zoolfeccar Khan, during lix months, had nineteen actions with
the enemy, and purfued them from place to . place, above three
thoufand cofs, in marches and countermarches.

Zoolfeccar Khan encamped for fome time near Satoor, and then A. H. 1117
made incurfions to the neighbourhood of Kundaneh, where the A. D. 1705
Mharattas had fixed their cantonments. The fort of Khalneh ilow
fell into the- emperor’s hands, when, notwithftanding the height of
the rains, he moved to Bahadur Ghur. This march was attended
with fo many inconveniences, that even the emperor’s tents were
often left far in the rear, and bodies of the enemy plundered part
of the baggage, which, through the fatigue of the elephants,
camels, and bullocks, were left behind in different places. Zool-
feccar Khan was difpatched towards Ahmednuggur in purfuit of the
enemy, who were committing depredations in that quarter. Behe-
ramund Khan, meer bukhfhi, one of Aurungzebe’s oldeft nobility
and friends, dying was buried at his own requeft in a fmall
tomb at Bahadur Ghur. He was fucceeded in his office by Zool-
feccar Khan Nufferut Jung, who, notwithftanding this appoint-
ment, continued in the command of the army againft the Mharattas,
and Muttullub Khan adted as his deputy in the prefence.

The depredations of a large body of the enemy near the royal
camp were encreafing daily, and fome of the imperial elephants
were carried off from their foraging ground, at only two cofs diftant
from it. Mahummud Ameen Khan Tooranee, fuddur al fuddoor,
was fent to recover them, but the enemy prefled him fo hard, that
his elephants, horfes, camels, and baggage, fell into their ' hands.

IIO

AURUNGZEBE's OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

He himfelf with the greateft difficulty efcaped alone into a village,
from which he travelled in a common hackery to Chumarcondeh,
where the fojedaur fupplied him with neceffiary conveyance to the-
royal camp. Aurungzebe however received him gracioufly, and
conferred many favours upon him. The emperor after this marched
to befiege the fort of Kundaneh, and Fatteh Oollah Khan was fent
to condude the artillery from Khalneh. He was hard puffied by the
enemy near Rhamutpore, but Zoolfeccar Khan arrived in time to>
his affiffance, and it was refolved to puniffi Dhunnah effectually.

At this inffant intelligence arrived, that Cheen Koollich Khan,
fojedaur of Carnatic Beejapore, was arrived on the banks of the
Kiftnah, fixteen cofs from the city, and that a large body of Mha-
rattas had marched with the hopes of plundering him, Zoolfeccar,
upon this, moved by forced marches to fupport him, but upon his
arrival at Beejapore he learned that Koollich Khan had fafely gained
the fort of Mudkul, and Dhunnah, being difappointed, had gone
towards the neighbourhood of Koolburga. Though Ghazi ad Dien
Khan was at the head of an army to puniffi the enemy, he did not
move to the affiftance of his fon. Upon his arrival at Koolburga,
Zoolfeccar Khan received orders to haften to the prefence. At this
time the emperor was employed in the liege of Kundaneh, where
Terbeut Khan, commander of the artillery, had ereCted his batteries-
on the fame hill, that the Maharajah Jeffwunt Sing had formerly
done. Zoolfeccar Khan being arrived in camp, was gracioufly
received, and ordered to carry on approaches on the lide of Sewa-
pore. Many days had not paffed, when intelligence arrived that a
body of Mharattas, having croffed the Nerbudda, were committing
depredations near Oojein, and that the Afghauns of Malwa had alfo
raffed a rebellion ; upon which Zoolfeccar Khan was ordered to
march for the defence of that country. Raow Dulput was now
promoted to the rank of three thoufand. Ghazi ad Dien Khan was
appointed to the government of Berar, and to defend the country

of *

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN, m

of Telingana, when he fixed his cantonments clofe to the fort of
Candahar.

The emperor ftill lay before Kundaneh. Sultan Mahummud
Bedar Bukht was appointed to the government of Aurungabad and
Boorahanpore. The enemy, after plundering the environs of the
lafl mentioned city, eroded the Nerbudda, and deftroyed the town
of Ghurkore. Though Raja Jey Sing and Ruftum Khan Dekkanee
were detached againft them by the prince, yet no advantage was
gained ; upon which the royal orders were ifliied, that the prince
and Zoolfeccar Khan fhould aCt in conjunction.

The khan arriving near Ferdapore, the Mharattas quitted the
fiege of that city, and made incurfions into Berar. The prince left
Alimerdan Khan for the defence of Boorahanpore, and Zoolfeccar
Khan detached Ruftum Khan Dekkanee for the protection of Berar.
Intelligence arrived, that the enemy under Dhunnah’s fon had be-
fieged Sultanpore Nudderbar, upon which Zoolfeccar Khan marched
to that quarter, where, on his arrival, he learned that they had
gone to Buggellana. The khan purfued them, and arrived at
Ambolah, where Ragnoo, a Mharatta chief in the fervice of Mo-
attiber Khan, tannadaar of Kallean and fojedaur of Goolfhunabad,
maintained a body of robbers, and carried on an open traffick un-
molefted with merchants, for the effects plundered by his people,
but he found means to evade the khan’s difpleafure.

Dhunnah’s fon now moved with intentions to infefl the environs
of the royal camp, but Zoolfeccar Khan, by forced marches
haftening to Nerool, prevented his putting his defign into execu-
tion. The fort of Kundaneh was now given up by the governor to
the emperor for a fum of money. The enemy foon after this plun-
dering in the neighbourhood of the imperial camp, Zoolfeccar
Khan as often repulfed them as they dared to approach. About this

time

112

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time negotiations were carried on by fultan Kaum Bukhfh with the
enemy for a peace, and Raja Saooh was teleafed from the Ruggelah
Bar, and entrufled to the care of the prince ; but the Mharattas,
who now had acquired great ftrength, and plundered at pleaiure all
the provinces of Dekkan, were fo infolent in their demands, that
all thoughts of accommodation were foon again laid afide, and Raja
Saooh remanded to his confinement. Zoolfeccar Khan was dis-
patched into Khandefhe, where nearly forty thoufand Mharattas
committed great depredations.

The emperor, after the fall of Kundaneh, cantoned in the town
of Poonah ; but, owing to the plunders of the enemy, grain was fo
dear in the royal camp, that only three feer could be had for a
rupee. A great drought had alfo happened in all the provinces
of Dekkan, fo that there was little cultivation, and many of the
inhabitants fought an afylum acrofs the Nerbudda. The emperor’s
affairs vifibly declined, and the enemy roamed at large in every
quarter. Zoolfeccar Khan moved by rapid marches to the neigh-
bourhood of Boorahanpore, when they fled into Berar ; and Ghazi
ad Dien Khan being entrufled with the protection of that province,
he did not purfue them, but agreeable to the imperial orders marched
to proteCt Aurungabad and Ahmednuggur.

Though provifions were beyond expreflion fcarce in the royal
camp, yet Aurungzebe marched from Poonah to befiege the fort of
Raujeghur ; and Sudder ad Dien Mahummud Zumman Khan, third
bukhfhi, was ordered to proteCt the grand baggage camp at Bahadur
Ghur. Zoolfeccar Khan with a convoy of grain, of which he had
collected a great quantity, arrived fafely at the royal camp, and
was promoted to additional rank for this fervice. The Mharattas in
Berar, having completely defeated Ruftum Khan, croffed the Ner-
budda upon which Ghazi ad Dien Khan marched after them, and
orders were fent to the munfubdars of Malwa to colleCt and oppofe

them.

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

them. The prince Mahummud Bedar Bukht was alfo ordered to
crofs the Nerbudda, and Zoolfeccar Khan to proted: Aurungabad
and Boorahanpore, till his return.

Negotiations towards the fettlement of a peace were ftill carried
on, through the fultan Kaum Bukhfh, with Dhunnah Jadoo, who
only entered into them to deceive and delay time. Neema Sindia,
after eroding the Nerbudda, plundered the province of Malwa as
far as Seronje. The forts of Raujeghur and Toorreah fell to the
royal arms.

Zoolfeccar Khan encamped on the banks of the Gung, and the
prince Bedar Bukht marched towards Oojein, but cantoned for
fome time near Boorahanpore. The emperor, after the fall of
Raujeghur, moved towards the fort of Sumber Chumber ; but, on
account of the rains, halted within fourteen cofs. Raow Dulput
efcorted a large convoy of fupplies as far as Ahmednuggur, in the
way to the royal camp. Ali Nukkee, a grandfon to the Perfian
emperor, being difgufled, fled to Surat, from whence he fent a
petition to Aurungzebe, who invited him to court, and upon his
arrival conferred upon him the command of three thoufand horfe,
and the title of Mirza Suffavee Khan.

Zoolfeccar Khan detached Dulput Raow and Ram Sing Harrah
in purfuit of the enemy, who had made incurflons to the vicinity of
Beejapore and Beelbuttah. They followed them from thence into
Khandelhe, where they completely defeated and obliged them to
evacuate that province entirely, taking a great number of their
horfes and arms j after which they returned to Aurungabad.

Neema Sindiah, who had quarrelled with Dhunnah, feparated
from him ; and eroding the Nerbudda, as before mentioned, plun-
dered the province of Malwa as far as Seronje, at the infligation of
Vol. II. the

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

114

the rebel raja Sutterfal Bondela ; but they did not long agree to-
gether. The imperial orders had been fent for the prince Bedar
Bukht to purfue the invader, but he was delayed, and Ghazi ad
Dien Khan Ferofe Jung, after puniffiing the Mharattas in Berar,
left his baggage at Boorahanpore, and moved by quick marches to
Seronje, from which the enemy fled before his arrival; but the
khan wrote to court that he had gained a vi&ory, which pleafed the
emperor fo much that he immediately conferred upon him the title
of Sippaeh Sallar, and many favours on all his principal officers ;
but they were withdrawn on the truth being made known, and he
returned to his government in Berar. Dulput Raow agreeably to
the orders of Zoolfeccar Khan, conducted the family of the prince
to Boorahanpore, and then returned. Roh Oollah Khan, grand
fteward of the imperial houfehold and treafurer of the privy purfe,
fon to the deceafed nobleman of the fame name, died about this
time. The emperor himfelf was taken very ill, but recovered in a *

fhort time. A great fcarcity of grain prevailed all through Dekkan.

The imperial revenues, numerous elephants, and a vaft caravan,
having arrived from Hindooftan at Aurungabad, Raow Dulput
and Ram Sing Harrah efcorted them at two different times to
Ahmednuggur and the imperial camp. Khodabundeh Khan, fon
to the late ameer al amra, who was fojedaur of Carnatic Bee-
japore, was called to the prefence, and diftinguifhed by the
poft of grand fteward of the houfehold. Two caravans, one
foon after another, coming from Hindooftan towards Aurunga-
bad, were both greatly plundered by the Mharattas near the pals
of Ferdapore, fo that the army, by thefe difafters and the wafte
of the jaghires by the enemy, were exceedingly diftrefied for all the
neceffaries of life. The Mharattas, by their frequent fuccefsful
plunders, became very rich and powerful. A party even advanced
clofe to the city of Hyderabad, with intentions to lay it wafte.
Dhunnah, Kunnoot, and Hundoo roamed at large in the Carnatic,
where Daood Khan, an ameer of five thoufand, deputy of Zoolfeccar

Khan,

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

Khan, fought with them many battles. Though the emperor was
in Dekkan, and above one hundred and feventy thoufand horfe were
paid for by him in the camp and the provinces, yet they did not
fuffice. The powers of government became relax in every quarter.

Aurungzebe moved from the cantonments of Ghur Kerroofs to punifh
Ponapah Pinder, who had rebelled in the diftridts of Wakin Kerah,
and entertained evil defigns upon Zuffirabad Bieder. The enemy
made an attack on the imperial baggage near Bahadur Ghur, and
acquired a great plunder, befides fetting fire to great quantities of
valuable effects. Their infolencies were greater than in the laft
year, fo that the lands round all the capital cities were totally
wafte, and lay uncultivated. Neema Sindia made an attempt to
advance to Banaras, through the country of Nagpore, but the
zemindars united, and prevented his defign. The Mharattas retook
feveral fortrefles that had lately fubmitted to the royal arms, but par-
ticularly the ftrong fort of Loeh Ghur. The prince Bedar Bukht
had, agreeably to the imperial orders, gone to Oojein, fo that there
did not remain a force at Boorahanpore to furnifh efcorts for the
caravans which came from Hindooftan ; upon which Zoolfeccar
Khan marched with his army to that city, and after punifhing a
body of the enemy, who were on the watch for plunder, conducted
the treafure and fupplies to Aurungabad. His force being but fmall,
he was obliged to requeft a reinforcement for the defence of that
city. Accordingly, Mogul Khan Toorande was detached to join
him for this purpofe, and Zoolfeccar Khan, leaving him there,
marched with a large convoy of treafure and fupplies to the imperial
camp.

The emperor was ftill engaged againft the rebels of Wakin A.H. m8 19.
Kerah, but the roads all round were crowded with large bodies of A. D. 1706-7.
the enemy; yet fuch was their dread of Zoolfeccar Khan, that,
whenever he approached, they fled inftantly to the diftance of thirty
five or forty cofs ; and he efcorted his convoy in fafety to the royal

CL2 camp-

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116

camp. The emperor encamped about a cofs from the fort of Wakln
Kerah, and ordered Cheen Koollich Khan, Hummeed ad Dien Khan,
Terbeut Khan, commander of the artillery and others, to conduct the
liege. They accordingly raifed two large mounds of earth near the
gateway, which were immediately occupied by the troops of the
fultan Mahummud Kaum Bukhlh. Cheen Koollich Khan attempt-
ed, but in vain, to get poffeffion of a hill on another quarter of the
fort, but was repeatedly repulfed by the enemy, who fa Hied out in
great numbers. Hummeed ad Dien Khan alfo was obliged to quit
his flation, and with difficulty regained the camp. Dhunnah, with
other chiefs, having collected about five thoufand horfe and five and
twenty thoufand foot, infefted the neighbourhood. An entrench-
ment was drawn all round the royal camp. The enemy made fuch
powerful fallies from the fort, daily and nightly throwing rockets,
that not a fingle perfon durfl venture out of the camp. Detachments
from it were repeatedly defeated, and the diflrefs for grain and
forage became pinching to the laft degree. The caufe of thefe
difgraces was, that the prefent race of amras, out of avarice, folly,
and inexperience, neglected the veterans and their fons, and mounted
as cavalry their own timid, flothful, menials and Haves, whofe
fighting and running av ay became lynonymous terms. The deceit-
ful Pinderrehs made propol'als of peace, through the prince Kaum
Bukhffi and Cheen Koollich Khan; but, though the emperor re-
peatedly difapproved of them, they Hill continued their importunate
folicitations, and indeed ail the amras were alarmed at the enemy’s
encreafing fuperiority.

At this time, Zoolfeccar Khan was on his march with fupplies
from Aurungabad. The emperor fent repeated orders to haften him
and Daood Khan to the prefence ; and, for the prefent, regarding
the fears of the amras about his perfon, feemingly liftened to the
propofals of the enemy, and bellowed khelauts on Ponapah, with

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

an elephant, and gave fome jewels to his mother. Mohtufhum
Khan was fent into the fort as kelladaar. Zoolfeccar Khan being
arrived at the imperial camp, was gracioufly received by AurungZebe,
who ordered him immediately to march againft the Mharattas and
Pinderrehs. The khan, accordingly, with Raow Dulput, Ram
Sing Harrah, and other chiefs, moved to the fpot where the befieged
had repulfed Hummeed ad Dien Khan, and reconnoitred it carefully.
The enemy, confiding in the natural ftrength of the place and their
numbers, made a great fhew of refinance but the khan foon drove
them away with a very great daughter, upon which they fled for
fhelter to Tulwarreh, clofe under the hill near the gate of the fort.
Zoolfeccar drove other bodies from feveral pods, killing great
numbers of the enemy, and lofing feveral of his own men, who
gallantly purfued too near the ditch. Cheen Koollich Khan, who
remained all the while an inactive fpe&ator, and who, if he had
joined in the aflaults, might have been of great fervice, complained
on his return that he was, not aflifted by Zoolfeccar Khan, and was
believed by his majedy. The next day Zoolfeccar Khan went to fix
on proper places for erecding batteries, and a body of horfe and foot
came out to oppofe him, but were foon repulfed by Dulput Raow,
and fled to the hill. Some days after this, Daood Khan Punnee
joined from the Carnatic, and Zoolfeccar Khan with his troops and
fome other amras gained poflelfion of two eminences near the gate.
Jumfheed Khan, an ameer of five thoufand, was killed by a ball in
the attack. Day and night were now employed in erefting batteries.
Intelligence arrived, that Kunnoput, who was advancing with a
large body of Mharattas to relieve the fort, had died on the march,
and that the lately conquered fort of Kundaneh was retaken by the
enemy. The befieged, who were now greatly alarmed at the gal-
lantry and fuccefs of Zoolfeccar Khan, made ferious propofals of
fubmiflion ; and the prince Kaum Bukhfh with Cheen Koollich Khan
were ordered to examine them, and manage the negotiation ; but

this

AURUNGZEBE's OPERATIONS IN DEKLK.AN.

this did not prevent Zo6lfeccar Khan, who was not to be diverted by
their flratagerns, from carrying on vigorous hodilities. He divided
his army into two bodies, and with one, in perfon, attacked the
town of Tulwarreh, clofe under the fort, which he carried, after a
very bloody afiault. The enemy then took Ihelter in the fort, and
annoyed the troops with rockets and mufquetry from the walls, but
to no purpofe ; fo that in the evening Ponapah, with the Mharatta
chiefs, being quite difheartened, made their efcape by a private foad
behind the fort. Raow Dulput feeing that all firing from the walls
had ceafed,’and hearing no noife, ventured up to the fort, and
finding it empty, fet the houfes on fire. Munfoor Khan was ordered
to take pofTeffion, and Zoolfeccar Khan fent to inform and con-
gratulate the emperor. The fire continued burning the whole night
and the next day, when a magazine of powder blew up, and killed
many people. An accident of the fame kind happened the next
day alfo. The fort of Wakin Kerah is of no great flrength, but
requires a very large garrifon to defend it.

Zoolfeccar Khan was not properly rewarded for this vidtory,
the praife of which was bellowed upon others, who had no fhare in
it, yet had the addrefs to make the emperor reprove the khan for
having let the enemy efcape unmoleded. The royal ear indeed had
long been poffeffed by a few defigning men, who diverted him from
attending to his mod ufeful fervants, which gave much difguft, and
Weakened the affections of the army to the royal perfon.

Zoolfeccar Khan was fent to punifh the zemindars about Kool-
burga and Khankernee, and to efcort the imperial elephants and
horfes to Aurungabad. Terbeut Khan was difpatched with an army
to retake Kundaneh, about three cofs from which the emperor now
eredted cantonments. Zoolfeccar Khan, after fettling the contribu-
tions of Koolburga and other places, moved to Aurungabad, where

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

” 9

he * remained fome time, and difpatched Mogul Khan with treafure
and fupplies to the imperial camp. Intelligence arriving that Neema
Sindia was plundering the pergunnah of Bertoo, five and twenty
cofs from Aurungabad, though Zoolfeccar Khan had fent great part
of his troops to efcort treafure to the royal camp, he did not wait
for their return, but moved by forced marches, and the enemy fled
as he approached. He did not give over the purfuit, but followed
them to their baggage camp, to defend which they made a Hand,
and were completely defeated, with the lofs of feveral of their chiefs,
and all their baggage and plunder fell into the hands of the vidtors,
who returned in triumph to Aurungabad. This was that body of the
enemy who had laid wafte the province of Mal^wa as far as Seronje.

Zoolfeccar Khan was again fummoned to the imperial prefence,
but being taken ill, was obliged to delay his march for fome time.
Upon his recovery he obeyed, and had an audience of the emperor
at Bahadur Ghur, who had moved there to keep ‘the Ramazan.
Seyadut Khan, who had gone out to hunt with a fmall party from
the camp, was made prifoner by a body of the enemy. The em-
peror at this time was taken dangeroufly ill ; upon which the prince
Mahummud Azim Shaw was called with great hafte from Guzarat
to the prefence. * ,

Zoolfeccar Khan with Terbeut Khan, meer atufli, was fent
with a confiderable army to retake Kundaneh; and raja Saooh,
Sambah’s fon, who had been confined long in the Ruggelah Bar,
was delivered over to his cuftody. Roy Bhan Bhoflela Mharatta,
who had been raifed to the rank of fix thoufand, was alfo fent with
him, in hopes that by his means the other chiefs might be prevailed
upon to fubmit and conclude a peace. Zoolfeccar Khan entrufled
the guard over Raja Saooh to fyed Ghuzunfir Khan. The emperor
gave inftru&ions, that as diflentions had now broken out among the

Mharattas,

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Mharattas, letters fhould be written from Raja Saooh to invite them
to fubmit. This was done, but without effect. Ten thoufand were
{truck off from the rank of fultan Kaum Bukhfh, who had been
guilty of fome undutiful behaviour.

Aurangzebe marched from Bahadur Ghur to Ahmednuggur,
and on the route the enemy committed great inlults on the line.
Hummeed ad Dien Khan was ordered' to repulfe them ; but he com-
mitted the charge to his officers, who were foon defeated, and
many of them taken prifoners. The enemy then charged the bag-
gage, and carried off a vaft plunder; but when the emperor’s train
came in fight, they, as if ftruck with awe at the tremendous pomp
of majefty, retired and looked on quietly at a diftance, which was
at this period the greatefl good fortune. The royal camp halted
under the walls of Ahmednuggur. Gopal Raow Chanderaowt,
being much diftreffed in his circumftances, deferted to the enemy.

Dhunnah Jadoo, Neema Sindia, and Odooah Mulhar, with other
Mharatta chiefs, furrounded the imperial camp at Ahmednuggur,
but were bravely repulfed and obliged to fly by Khan Aulum, fon
of Khan Zummaun. Zoolfeccar Khan reduced the fort of Kun-
daneh, and the befieged capitulated through the mediation of Ram
Sing Harrah, at whofe requefl they were allowed to depart in.
fafety.

There are above an hundred fine wells in this fort. Munfoor Khan
was appointed kelladaar, but proper flores of provifions could not be
fpared for its fupport ; and this was the cafe with all the forts which
had been taken in Dekkan, where the long wars and continual depre-
dations had rendered all the neceflaries of life exceedingly fcarce.
The prince Mahummud Azim Shaw arrived from Guzarat at
Ahmednuggur, and had an affecting meeting with the emperor.

Ibrahim

AURUNGZEBE’s operations in dekican. i2 I

Ibrahim Khan, fon of the late Alimerdan Khan, was removed
from the government of Cafhmire and appointed to that of Guzarat,
of which the prince Bedar Bukht was ordered to take charge until
his arrival, and p.unifh the rebel Anoomund, who, from being a
feller of drams, had praCtifed robbing, and by his fuccefl'es railed
himfelf to the command of a large body of banditti, with whom he
had joined the Mharattas. This rebel, on the departure of Azim
Shaw, finding .Guzarat unprotected, had entered the province,
where he defeated and took prifoner Nuzzer Ali Khan, the foje-
daur of Brodrah, a very wealthy town, inhabited by capital mer-
chants and bankers,- whom he plundered of an immenfe booty, and
made a fecure retreat with his prize.

Great bodies of banditti plundered at difcretion about Aurungabad,
and the zemindars of Multan and Tatta rebelled, but were quelled by
fultan Moiz ad Dien, who on this occafion difplayed great gallantry
and condudt. Khan Aulum was fent to protect the province of Malwa,
and Nijabut Khan and Zoolfeccar Khan were both ordered to drive
the enemy from Aurungabad. Zoolfeccar Khan fent his baggage into
Ahmednuggur, and moved by forced marches, but upon his arrival
near Payen Ghaut, he learned that the enemy had fled another way
to the banks of the Gung. Ghazi ad Dien Khan had remained all
this while inactive, only ten cofs from the enemy’s camp. Zoolfeccar
Khan ftill purfued them without remiflion, and at lafi: they crofled
the Beemrah into their own diftriCts; upon which, finding the
country clear and the rains fetting in, he returned to the imperial
camp. His troops in this purfuit fuffered every hardfliip from want
of provifions and exceflive fatigue. He next marched towards the
fort of Moorje, upon which Dhunnah crofled the Kiftnah. Intel-
ligence arrived, that Ponapah Pinderreh and Hindoo Raow had
poflefled themfelves of the fort of Bilcondah, belonging to Beeja-
pore, and taken the kelladaar prifoner j alfo that the fort of Buf-
Vol. II. R funt

122

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

funt Ghur had fallen into their hands. Daood Khan recovered the
former to the imperial poffeffion. Seyadut Khan procured his releafe
from the enemy for a large fum of money, but he was rendered
blind of both eyes from the wounds he had received. Zoolfeccar
Khan encamped, on account of the rains, within twelve cofs of
Moorje, but was fo diftreffed for provifions that his cavalry became
almoft unfit for fervice.

When Shaw Jehaun fent the fultan Dara Shekkoh againfi: Can-
dahar, he gave the foldiery two years’ pay in advance, and fent
two years of grain with the army. During his whole reign, the
fingle war of the rana was the only one that gave trouble. Aurung-
zebe’s reign had been a continued war, and now, even in the royal
camp at Ahmednuggur, notwithftanding the vicinity of the Kiftnah,
fcarce any provifions could be obtained.

Zoolfeccar Khan after the rains purfued Dhunnah, who fled to
the Beejapore country, and the khan followed him to the banks of
the Kiftnah. The Pinderrehs took Velore, which however was
foon again retaken by Terbeut Khan. Sultan Mahummud Akber
died this year in Perfia. A great caravan, very rich, coming from
Aurungabad was totally plundered, and every thing carried off by a
body of Mharattas, at only twelve cofs diftance from the imperial
camp.

The prince Mahummud Kaum Bukhfh was promoted, honoured
with prefents, and appointed to the foubadary of Beejapore ; and at
parting, the emperor, weeping, permitted him to beat the nobut
from the gate of the palace. The twenty firfl of the fame month,
Zeehidge, the prince Mahummud Azim Shaw was difpatched
towards Malwa. Rama’s widow, who had great power among
the Mharattas, wifhed to confine Hindoo Raow, but he took re-
fuge

AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

123

fuge in the fort of Koorkul. Dhunnah plundered all his effects,
and clofely befieged him ; upon which he lent to beg afliftance of
Zoolfeccar Khan, who eroded the Kiftnah, and, leaving his bag-
gage in the fort of Sundeo, marched againft Dhunnah, who fled
upon his approach, when Hindoo Raow took fhelter in his own
country, and Zoolfeccar Khan then retreated.

A few days after this the emperor was feized with his lafl
illnefs, which encreafed every hour, and alarming reports prevailed ;
till on Friday, the twenty eighth of Zeekaud, in the fiftieth A. H. 1118.
year and fecond month of his reign, he left this vain life of toil, A. D. 1707,
for one of blifsful repofe.

END OF AURUNGZEBE’s OPERATIONS IN DEKKAN.

}

PART IV

HISTORY

AURUN GZEBE’s SUCCESSORS,

ERADUT KHAN.

;> \ «.v *

■

. .

APOLOGY.

A GREAT number of the Memoirs of Eradut Khan having
been formerly printed off in the year i“8^, and fufficient re-
maining on hand for the purpole, I hope my readers will ex-
cufe their being bound up in the order of connection and time.
To my liberal friends, the regular numbering of pages will, I
truft, be of lefs moment than the contents ; the reprinting of
which would have added very greatly to my expenfe, and
but little to their accommodation j efpecially as Eradut Khan
gives a much more latisfaCtory account of tranfadtions than any
other writer of the lame period, whom I could have tranflated
in his place.

The following account of the author of the Memoirs is
taken from the * Mafler al Amra, or Biography of Nobility,
written by Sumfam ad Dowlah Shaw-nowauz Khan, prime
minifter to Sullabut Jung, brother and predeceffor in power to
the prefent Nazim of Dekkan.

Meer

• Which I had not feen, till favoured with it lately by Mr. R. Johnfon,
who, in his refidency with the nizatn at Hyderabad, colle£ted many curious
Perfian manufcripts relative to Dekkan, which he with great liberality has
permitted me to make ufe of.

APOLOGY.

Meer Moobaric Oollah Eradut Khan Wazeh, was the fon of
*Ifauk Khan, fon of Azim Khan. Both his grandfather and
father were noblemen of high rank. The former was Meer
Bukhfhi to the emperor Jehaungeer, and the latter held various
offices of importance under Shaw Jehaun and Aulumgeer. He
died foon after his appointment to the government of Oude.
His title was alfo Eradut Khan. One of his fons (our author)
had his title conferred upon him, and in the thirty third year
of Aulumgeer was appointed fojedaur of Jagneh, and at other
periods, of Aurungabad and Mando in Malwa. In the reign of
Shaw Aulum he was governor of the Doab, and the intimate
friend of Moazim Khan Vizier. He died in the time of Ferokh-
fere. His abilities as a poet were great, and he left a volume
of poems behind him. His fon was honoured by the title of
Hofhedaur Khan, and afterwards with that of Eradut Khan, and
the fojedaury of Doohiperayeah in the province of Malwa. In
the fixth year of Mahummud Shaw, he attended Afoph Jah to
Dekkan, and after the vidtory over Mubariz Khan was appoint-
ed dewan of Dekkan, with the rank of four thoufand. He was
afterwards governor of Koolburga, and died in the year 1157,
[A. D. 17 44.] He had many fons, moft of whom died in his
life time. His eldeft furviving fon, Hafiz Khan, fucceeded him
in the government of Koolburga, which he held at the time
Shaw-nowauz Khan wrote the Biography of the Amras.

* Afterwards entitled Keffaiut Khan.

[ iii 3

T O

WARREN HASTINGS, Esq.

S I R,

PERMIT me to dedicate this Tranflation to you,
who fo amply patronized my attempts to make
myfelf ufeful to my honourable employers, when in
India. The diltinition you were pleafed to confer upon
me, by an appointment in your family, and the favour
of your friendlhip, I Ihall ever regard as honours of
which I may reafonably boaft : and I trull a time will
come, when far more important pages than mine will
acquire merit with the nation, from being adorned with
the name of Hastings.

I am, Sir,

Your molt obedient

And grateful humble fervant,

A 2

London,
i 2th May, 1786.

JONATHAN SCOTT.

ERRATA

Page

29, line 20, for meffuage, read meftage.

30, line 24, for Raujepoet, read Raujpoot.

51, line 2, in the notes, for mizid, read muzjid.

52, line 10, for Bahadar, read Bahadur.

54, line 2, for Soubadacy, read Soubadary.

53, in the notes, for Yemmum, read Yemmun.

89, line 8, and 22, for Downan, and Do wran, read Dowraun.

J TJ, ' r j

[is ]

ORIGINAL

P R E F A C E.

THUS fayeth the compiler of thefe records and
events, an humble and finful flave, 1 Moobaric
Oollah 2 Eradut Khan ’Wazeh, fon of the 4fhel-
tered in mercy, y Keffaiut Khan, writer of the 6 Shekeft :
When I had finilhed the 7Kulmaut Aleeaut, it entered my
mind to draw up a concife relation of what events had
happened to myfelf, while I was compofing that work.

* Anglice, BlefTed of God.

4 The author’s title of nobility, fignifying The Faithful Lord.

3 His poetical name, by which he chofe to fignify himfelf in his poems ; Anglice,
Clear. Eaftern authors always ufe one.

* The Mufliilmauns, when mentioning a deceafed perfon, never fay fuch a one who
is dead, but fuch a one fheltered in mercy, received in pardon, or fome fimilar expref-
fion. When mentioning a deceafed prince, they fay the prince whofe feat is in Paradife.
5 Anglice, The ferviceable.

* The broken hand, generally ufed in bufinefs.

7 Anglice, Sublime Difcourfes. This work I never could obtain, though I made
ftri£t enquiry after it.

I have

x ORIGINAL PREFACE.

I have obferved, that delightful fcenes, and the fociety
of friends, are not fo ftriking at the time of enjoyment, as
afterwards, when relieved in the mirror of recollection.
On this account, I write down moil palling occurrences ;
and whenever I perufe them, or ruminate upon them, a
particular feeling, a furpriffng pleafure and aftonifhing
extafy, prevail in my mind. My writings alfo ferve as a
memorial to my friends.

During the fhort period of my age, which has this day
arrived at the fixty-fourth year, and the 1 1 26th of the holy
a. c. 1715. Hijhera, fuch wonders of time, fuch aftonifhing marks of
the power of the Creator of night and day in the vicifli-
tudes of worldly affairs, the deftrudtion of empires, the
deaths of many princes, the ruin of ancient houfes and
noble families, the fall of worthy men,, and rife of the
unworthy, have been beheld by me, as have not been
mentioned by hiftory to have occurred, in fuch number
or fucceffion, in a thoufand years. ' /

As, on account of my office, and being engaged in
. thefe tranfadiions, I have obtained a perfedt knowledge of
the fources of molt events, and what, to others, even in-
formation of muff; be difficult, was planned and executed
in my fight ; and as I was a fharer, as well as fpedtator,

ORIGINAL PREFACE,

of all the dangers and troubles, I have therefore recorded
them.

My intention, however, not being to compile a hiftory
of kings, or a flowery work, but only to relate fuch events
as happened within my own knowledge, I have therefore,
preferably to a difplay of learning in lofty phrafes and
pompous metaphors, chofen a plain flyle, fuch as a friend,
writing to a friend, would ufe for the purpofe of infor-
mation. Indeed, if propriety is confulted, loftinefs of

flyle is unfit for plain truth, which, pure in itfelf, requires

only a Ample delineation. I hope, therefore, that my
readers will not Ioofen the reins of impartiality from their
hands, nor call my modefly, ignorance.

[ xii ]

TO THE

R E A D E R.

IT will be neceflary to remember, that Aurungzebe is
the fame perfon with Aulumgeer. He took the latter
title on his accehion to the throne, agreeable to the cuftom
of the eaftern princes, who always affurne a new one on
that occafion.

It is hoped that the number of notes will not prove
tedious, nor perplex the reader’s attention. Some, per-
haps, may appear trivial to thofe whofe local knowledge
renders fuch affiftance, to them, unneceffary ; but, as
•their number is comparatively very fmall with thofe who
require it, the tranflator requefts the indulgence of the few,
in compliment to the many.

MEMOIRS

M E

O I

R S

OF THE

MOGUL EMPIRE,

B Y

ERADUT KHAN WAZEE

I SHALL begin my narration from the time of my removal from
the command of the fortrefs of 1 Imteeauz Gur. For the
duties of that office I had entertained numerous followers, a
tenth of a tenth of whom, the fuddennefs of my recall rendered me
incapable of paying ; but, as my life was yet to remain, I made
my 2 efcape from among them in the beft manner I could, with
my family.

On account of my diftrefled circumftances, and the great diftance
of my late command from the Imperial camp, in order that I

1 An important fortrefs in Dekkan, or the fouthern part of Hindoftan. It is called
Oodneh by the Hindoos, and is now in polTefiion of the Mharattas, who retook it foon
after th? death of the Emperor Aulumgeer,

1 To be obliged to fly from their own troops, is frequently the cafe with the nobles
of Hindoftan, on recall from office, or other emergency, as they generally keep up
more than they can pay with regularity.

might

MEMOIRS OF THE

_ might take Tome repofe, his majefly had conferred upon me the
government of ’ Ahflunabad Koolburgah, where I remained one
month j and then, leaving my dearefl fon, 1 2 3Huddaiut Oolla, as
my deputy in that Ration, I proceeded with a few followers to the
3 Stirrup. I had the honour of an audience in 4 5Pargur, while his
majefly was engaged in the redudlion of s Kundaneh. He fhewed
me much favour, nor had any change taken place in his efleem
and regard towards me. I was Rationed, during the fiege, four
cofs diRant from the camp, on the only road of communication then
left, as I had been fuccefsfully employed on the like fervice, fince
the commencement of the redudfion of Dekkan, at 6 7 Beejapore,
7 Hyderabad, and other places. Though the enemy now was very
numerous, and plundered even to the Ikirts of the camp, yet, by
the divine alRRance, I maintained my poR with a very trifling force.
For this fervice, I was honoured with much applaufe by his ma-
jefly, and my reputation with the public became high. Additional
rank was alfo conferred, as a reward, on my dearefl fon, and other
relations, at Koolburgah.

1 A city, formerly the capital of the Bhamenee fovereigns of Dekkan, Ferifhta’s
Hiftory of whom, and the fucceeditig Dynafties, has been tranflated, and will one day
be offered to the public, fhould their approbation await this attempt. It is now of
little note, and in pofleffion of the Nizam.

1 Anglice, diredted by God.

3 Meaning the emperor’s perfon, when travelling.

4 A fortrefs in Dekkin.

5 Another in ditto.

6 Once the capital of the Adil Shawee Sultans of Dekkan, and celebrated for its
magnificence. It was reduced by Aulumgeer, with all the dependencies, except what
the famous Mharatta chief, Sewajee, who was a rebellious vaffal of this monarchy,
had wrefted from it. It is now-ruined, and in poflelTion of the Mharattas. Europeans
have generally written it Vifiapour, but the MufTulmauns as above.

7 This city was the capital of Golconda and Koottub Shawee fultans, the laft of
whom was taken prifoner by Aulumgeer, and his kingdom reduced. It is now one
of the capitals of the Nizam, who is however obliged to fhare the revenues with the
Mharattas.

After

MOGUL EMPIRE.

After the reduction of 1 * Kundaneh and 1 Raujegur, the emperor
moved to another quarter. He had defired feveral of the principal
nobility to accept the command of the latter, as it was of import-
ance, and but newly conquered ; but it being a pod: only of diffi-
culty, they had all requefled to be excufed. One evening therefore
he fent for me, and my fon 3 Moraud Khan, and when I had
entered the prefence, faid, “ I wifh to fend thee to Raujegur, art
<c thou willing to go ? ” I replied, that his Have was ready ; upon
which he gave me part of the coffee before him, and ordered that,
having drank it in the 4 5 Aubdar Khauneh, I fhould come back, and
receive my difmiffion. When I returned to the prefence, his
majefly gave me his bleffing, two hundred mhors, and one coin
weighing one hundred s mhors, with two horfes to me and my fon,
and five for my bretheren. Two hundred bullock loads of grain
were alfo ordered with me; and the following day, after morning
prayer, I departed. At taking leave, his majefly promifed that I
fhould be relieved before the rainy feafon, then about two months
diflant.

By the aufpices of the divine bleffing, I arrived in fafety at my
Ration in eight days, and remained there forty ; during which, from
the folitude and romantic fituation of the place, my leifure paffed
in pleafingly enthufiaflic contemplation. 6 Munfoor Khan was

then

1 A fortrefs in Dekkan.

* Another in ditto.

3 Anglice, objeCl of defire.

4 The place in which water, flierbets, &c. are cooled in ice or faltpetre,

5 Golden coins, of this and greater weight, were often given as marks of favour.
Silver coins, ot feveral hundred rupees' value, were alfo in ufe ; and there is one of
them now in the Britifh Mufeum, of which the ingenious Mr. Richardfon has given a
very full defcription, in his very learned work, the Perfian and Arabic Dictionary.

6 Victorious. It is, perhaps, not yet quite unnecefiary to mention, that every
proper name or title of f erfons, in the Perfian, and frequently in the Hindoo language,,

B 2 is

MEMOIRS OF THE

then fent to relieve me, and his majefty wrote with his own hand
on the firmaun of recall, that, agreeably to his promife, he com-
manded me to the prefence j to which were added many gracious
affurances of favour. I left Raujegur with the fame force I had
comej but as it was a great diftance from the camp, and parties of
the enemy were hpvering abroad, at feveral places I was much
preffed. On my arrival at the prefence, I was received with great
favour.

Being now again in the fame fituation as when I quitted
Imteeauz Gur, (for my jagheer had been ruined by various de-
predations,) I was much diftreffed in my affairs, when his
majefty, who was informed of every thing public and private,
fent 1 Ameer Khan to me with a meffage, importing, that, as
diftrefs had invaded my affairs, I had better feek a little repofe
in fome fettled office, and that he would confer upon me the
2 Kelladaree and 1 Fojedaree of 4 Mandou, then held by 1 Nowazufh
Khan, who, though an ameer of three thoufand, was unequal to
the poft.

My attachment and regard to his majefty were fo great, that,
obferving his life verging to the clofe, I did not wifli to quit the

is an epithet defcriptive of fome quality in them on whom it is conferred, or the donor
fuppofes them to poflefs : but, of late years, titles of honour are become fo common,
as to lofe their refpedf ; and there are many vidtorious lords of Hindoftan, who never
faw a battle, or drew a fword againft an enemy.

1 Noble.

a Command of a garrifon.

3 Military authority in a diftriA, under which are the criminal courts of juftice.

4 A very extenfive fortrefs in the province of Malwa, of which it was the capital
under, the Patan fovereigns. It is now much decayed, and in pofleflion of the Mha-
rattas.

5 PofTeiling affability.

prefence.

MOGUL EMPIRE.

prefence, fearful of never beholding him more, and therefore
declined the offer j but, when my fon and the women of my family
heard of the refufal, they became immerfed in grief, for the Soubah
of Malwa was to them dear as their native place. The difappoint-
ment of my fon was fuch, that he privately refolved to give up the
fervice, and leave me j and my whole family were heartlefs and in
defpair. At length, overcome by their fituation, and indeed they
had juftice on their fide, I, in fpite of my own grief, faid to my
fon, “ The power is in thy hands ; I refign myfelf as a r3nfom for
“ thy happinefs.” The foul of my life went the fame evening to-
Ameer Khan, and informed him of my acceptance of this office.
As that minifter was pleafed with my confenting on many accounts,
he reprefented it to the emperor the fame night, when the affair
was fettled. Alas ! how can I exprefs what paffed within my own
breaft ? The following morning, at the 1 affembly of juftice, his
majefty beftowed upon me a horfe and 2 3 khelaut, and the fame upon
my fon and grandfon. It was alfo allowed me, at my particular
requeft, to come daily to pay my refpe&s at the prefence, till the
grants of my new office could be prepared ; and though my pofts
of 5 Meer Tozuk and 4 Darogah of the Dekkan cavalry were given-
to others, yet, from his majelfy’s gracious favor, I was permitted;
to exercife the duties of them till I left the camp.

1 It was a cuftom of the Mogul emperors to fit daily once, for the purpofe of
hearing and redreffing the complaints of the people, and often twice; but this noble
ufage was difcontinued by the fuccelfors of Aulumgeer, which tended greatly to lofe_
them the refpedt of their fubjedls.

4 An honorary drefs given always to perfons entering into office, and frequently by
a fuperior to an inferior, as a mark of efteem. It is varied, in richnefs of materials,,
and number of garments, according to the rank of the receiver.

3 A marfhal, whofe bufinefs it is to preferve order in a proce#ion, or line of marchv.
and to report abfentee?.

* Superintendant, who examines the number of men and horfes, to check falfe
mufters.

On-

MEMOIRS OF THE

On the evening before my departure, the emperor opening the
window of his deeping apartment, called me to him, and faid,
<c Abfence now takes place between us, and our meeting again is
“ uncertain. Forgive, then, whatever willingly, or unwillingly,
“ I may have done againft thee, and pronounce the words, I
“ forgive ! three times, with fincerity of heart. As thou haft
“ ferved me long, I alfo forgive thee whatever knowingly, or other-
“ wife, thou mayeft have done againft me.” Upon hearing thefe
expreftions, my fobs became like a knot in my throat, fo that I
had not power to fpeak. At laft, after his majefty had repeatedly
prefted me, I made fhift to pronounce the words, I forgive ! three
times, interrupted by heavy fobs. He filed many tears, repeated
the words, and, after blefling me, ordered me to retire. Sorrow
lay fo heavy upon my mind, that, upon my arrival at 1 Aurunga-
bad, I was feized with a violent illnefs ; but, as my borrowed life
was not yet required, the foul and body did not feparate. Until
my arrival at Mandou, I was unable to move, without help, from
my bed to my feat. My fon remained in the fort with me only
one night, and then departed for his command at 1 Koterree
Perrayeh. I remained one year immerfed in the fame grief and
forrow.

The prince Mahummud 3 Bedar Bukht being appointed to the
government of Malwa, I paid my refpects to him at 4Oojein. In

1 A confiderable city, founded by Aulumgeer before his acceffion to the throne,
near the celebrated fortrefs of Dovvlutabad in Dekkan. He named it Khojefteh
Boonniaud, or The Happy Manfion ; but the people called it Aurungabad, in com-
pliment to his title of Aurungzebe, by which Aulumgeer was diftinguifhed before he
feized the empire.

* A diftridt in Malwa,

3 Signifying wakeful ftar, or propitious fortune. He was the eldeft fon of Azim Shaw.

4 Suppofed to be one of the oldeft cities in India, and is at preljent the capital of
Malwa, and of Mahajee Sindia, a principal Mharatta chief.

a fhort

MOGUL EMPIRE. 7

a fhort time, fuch a friendfhip grew between ns, that a greater
between a prince and fubjedt cannot be conceived. He would not
be an inllant without me : he would not eat of any thing, but he
fent me part of it : he did nothing of importance without afking
my advice, and confidered my opinion as religioufly decifive. In
fhort, the particulars of his favour are beyond relation ; but, on
this account, I became envied by all his dependants.

Soon after this, the illuftrious prince Mahummud 1 Azim Shaw,
coming from Guzarat to vifit the emperor, paffed through Malwa,
on his route to 1 Ahmednuggur. From the favour he had beheld
me in with his father, my attention to himfelf, and the unbounded
praifes of his fon Bedar Bukht, he behaved to me in fuch a gracious
manner, as to relate would occafion prolixity. When he had gone
through Malwa, the government of Guzarat was conferred on
Bedar Bukht, who departed for that province, and took me with
him as far as the frontiers, beyond which I dared not pafs without
leave from the emperor. How fhall I exprefs his manner of part-
ing ? He made me promife to write him weekly, and faid, that he
would favour me as often with letters under his own hand, in-
cluding every important occurrence, in order to have the benefit of
my advice for his conduct. This fort of correfpondence was kept
up between us regularly, till the life of his majefty fhadow 3 of a.h. mg
God arrived at an end. I muff now relate fome particulars of AFCb.
that important event 4.

The

* Signifying great king. He was the third by birth, but fecond furviving fon of
Aulumgeer.

1 A confiderable city of Dekkan, once the capital of the Nizam Shawee fultans,
reduced to the Mogul yoke under Shaw Jehaun, but now under the Mharattas.

3 An epithet common to majefty, with all the orientals.

* It may not be amifs to infert here two letters written by Aulumgeer to his fons,

Azim Shaw and Kaum Buklh, a few days before his death.

)

5 MEMOIRS OF THE

The emperor, a few days before his death, with a ftrictnefs of
command feldom to be enforced by monarchs at fuch a feafon,

dilpatched

To Shaw Azim Shaw.

HEALTH to thee ! My heart is near thee. Old age is arrived : weaknefs fubdues
me, and ftrength has forfaken all my members. I came a ftranger into this world,
and a ftranger I depart. I know nothing of myfelf, what I am, and for what I am
deftined. The inftant which palled in power, hath left only forrow behind it. I have
not been the guardian and protestor of the empire. My valuable time has been pafled
vainly. I had a patron in my own dwelling, (confcience,) but his giorious light was unfeen
by my dim fight. Life is not lafting; there is no veftige of departed breath, and all hopes
from futurity are loft. The fever has left me, but nothing of me remains but Ikin and
bone. My fon, (Kaum Bukfh,) though gone towards Beejapore, is ftill near ; and
thou, my fon, art yet nearer. The worthy of efteem, Shaw Aulum, is far diftant ;
and my grandfon, (Azeem Oolhaun,) by the orders of God, is arrived near Hindoftan.
The camp and followers, helplefs and alarmed, are, like myfelf, full of afflidtion, reft-
lefs as the quickfilver. Separated from their lord, they know not if they have a mafter
or not.

I brought nothing into this world, and, except the infirmities of man, carry nothing
out. I have a dread for my falvation, and with what torments I may be puniftied.
Though I have ftrong reliance on the mercies and bounty of God, yet, regarding my
adlions, fear will not quit me ; but, when I am gone, refledtion will not remain.
Come then what may, I have launched my veflel to the waves. Though Providence
•will protedf the camp, yet, regarding appearances, the endeavours of my fons are in-
difpenfably incumbent. Give my laft prayers to my grandfon, (Bedar Bukht,) whom
I cannot fee, but the defire affedfs me. The Begum (his daughter) appears afflidfed ;
but God is the only judge of hearts. The foolifh thoughts of women produce nothing
but difappointment. Farewell! farewell! farewell!

To the Prince Kaum Buksh.

MY fon, neareft to my heart. Though in the height of my power, and by God's
permiffion, I gave you advice, and took with you the greateft pains, yet, as it was
not the divine will, you did not attend with the ears of compliance. Now I depart a
ftranger, and lament my own infignificance, what does it profit me ? I carry with
me the fruits of my fins and imperfedtions. Surprizing Providence ! I came here
alone, and alone I depart. The leader of this caravan hath deferted me. The fever,
which troubled me for twelve days, has left me. Wherever I look, I fee nothing but
the Divinity. My fears for the camp and followers are great; but, alas! I know not
myfelf. My back is bent with weaknefs, and my feet have loft the powers of motion.

7 The

MOGUL EMPIRE.

difpatched the prince Azim Shaw towards Malwa, and Kaum Bukfh
to his government of Beejapore. His reafon for this proceeding
was, that no feuds might arife upon his death, in an enemy’s
country, between his fons, to endanger the repofe of his fubjedls.
Had the two princes remained together in the camp, fuch would
have been the cafe, as occurred afterwards on the death of Shaw
Aulum, whofe four fons were together in the camp, when, though
not in an enemy’s country, the families, fortunes and honour of a
world became plunged in the depth of ruin.

Azim Shaw, though knowing the dangerous illnefs of his father,
dared not difobey the orders of march. He departed from the
camp, but his motions were flow and cautious ; nor did the em-
peror prefs him to expedition, after the three firft marches. He

The breath which rofe, is gone, and left not even hope behind it. I have committed-
numerous crimes, and know not with what punifhments I may be feized. Though1
the Protestor of mankind will guard the camp, yet care is incumbent alfo on the
faithful, and my fons. When I was alive, no care was taken; and now I am gone,
the confequence may be gueffed. The guardianfbip of a people is the truft by God
committed to my fons. Azim Shaw is near. Be cautious that none of the faithful are
flain, or their miferies fall upon my head. I refign you, your mother and fon, to God,
aslmyfelf am going. The agonies of death come upon me faff. Bahadur Shaw is
ftill where he was, and his fon is arrived n.ear Hindoftan. Bedar Bukht is inGuzarat.
Hyaut al Niffa, who has beheld no afflictions of time till now, is full of forrows. Re-
gard the Begum as without concern. Odiporee, your mother, was a partner in my
illnefs, and wiffies to accompany me in death ; but every thing has its appointed time.

The domeftics and courtiers, however deceitful, yet muff not be ill-treated. It
neceffary to gain your views by gentlenefs and art. Extend your feet no lower than
your fkirt. The complaints of the unpaid troops are as before. Dara Shckkoh, though
of much judgment and good underftanding, fettled large penfions on his people, but
paid them ill, and they were ever difeontented. I am going. Whatever good or evil
I have done, it was for you. Take it not amifs, nor remember what offences I have
done to yourfelf ; that account may not be demanded of me hereafter. No one has
ieen the departure of his own foul ; but I fee that mine is departing.

even

A. H.
A. C.
Feb.

MEMOIRS OF THE

even faid to 1 Hummeed ad dien Khan, to whom he had committed
the charge of his funeral rites, “ Three days after my death, one
ct of my fons will arrive in camp, and fend my remains to Aurun-
“ gabad in a proper manner.” On Friday the twenty-eighth of
2lk' Zeekaud, his majefty performed his morning devotions in company
with his attendants 3 after which, as was frequently his cuftom,
he exclaimed, “ O that my death may happen on a Friday, for
" blefled is he who dieth on that day ! ” Soon after, he had occa-
fion to retire. Upon his return towards his bed, he had begun
the 2 tiummum, as was always his cuftom till water for the 3 wuzzoo
could be brought, and had made one fprinkling, when fuddenly
his moft pure fpirit fled from the narrownefs of corporeal confine-
ment, to the boundlefs expanfion of the Moft High. We are from
God, and to God we muft return. His hands remained clafped,
and in motion, for fome time after he had ceafed to breathe. How
can I exprefs my own feelings ? This much I know, that the
kindnefs, favour and diftinftion, for fifty years, of that atom-
cherifhing fun to me, his humble flave, his great aflions, his glory,
his piety, his perfeverance in virtue from youth to age, the revolu-
tions of his reign, and all the wonderful events of time, rufhed
upon my memory at once in a fea of grief, and overwhelmed my
heart, fo that I forgot myfelf, and knew not what pafled around
me.

Azim Shaw, being informed of the event by his agents, and the
nobles who affected to embrace his intereft, arrived on the third

1 Anglice, Aider of the faith.

*• A purification by fprinkling of daft over the body, ordered by Mahummud for the
convenience of his followers inhabiting the dry deferts of Arabia, where water is too
valuable for the poor to ufe on flight occafions.

3 Ditto with water.

MOGUL EMPIRE.

of ’ Zeehudge at the camp at Ahmednuggur. He omitted no fhew
of affection and refpecl to his deceafed father, but, like the orphans
of thofe in humble life, fhed many tears.

Many of the chief imperial fervants, as 1 * 3 Muttullub Khan,

* Khoddabundeh Khan, 4 5Terbeut Khan, and others, had a real
attachment to Azim Shaw. Some neither loved or hated him ;
and a few, though they difliked, yet, from inability to oppofe,
prudently fubmitted to his authority. Three Mogul chiefs only
delayed to come in to offer their allegiance, fFeeroze Jung, his
fon Cheen Kooilich Khan, and 6 Mahummud Ameen Khari.

On the tenth of Zeehuge, 1118, Azim Shaw afcended the A. c. 1707.
throne of empire amidft the ufual rejoicings, and conferred favours
on the nobility according to their Rations, but 011 few in a manner
affording fatisfaftion. Here I muff be permitted to mention one
or two inftances of the wonderful accomplishment of the decrees
of Providence. While he was only a prince, moff of the nobility
were attached to Azim Shaw, and regarded him as poffeffing every
approved quality for empire j but almoff immediately after his
acceffion to the throne, the general opinion was altered, from his
own condudt. He flighted the principal nobility, and betrayed
great parfimony to the army, adling as if he had no occafion for
their fervices. This proceeded from a vain belief that none dared
to oppofe him, and that his elder brother, Shaw Aulum, relin-

1 The twelfth month of the Arabian year.

1 Anglice, Objeft of the wifh.

3 Slave of God.

+ Accomplilhed in manners and morals.

5 Fortunate in war.

* Faithful in Mahummud,

C 2

quifhing

MEMOIRS OF THE

quifhing to him fuch a vaft empire as Hindoftan, without a ftrug-
gle, would fly for fafety to another clime. At the fame time, he
openly declared his jealoufy of his own fon, Bedar Bukht, whofe
favour with the late emperor had difpleafed him. He treated the
old nobility with contempt, and would fay publicly, that they were
not fit for his fervice. He removed Terbeut Khan, a veteran and
loyal general, from his command of the artillery, in the mo ft in-
fulting manner, without any notice, and conferred that important
ftation on a young man of low rank among his creatures. In
Ihort, I cannot enumerate all the ill omens to the fortune of Azim
Shaw, which proved the will of Providence to have decreed heaven
beftowed empire to Shaw Aulum. He who prideth in himfelf is
ruined. When the will of God hath decreed an event, all things,
aid the accomplifhment.

Mahummud Kaum Bukfh received intelligence of the emperor’s
death, on his third day’s march from Ahmednuggur, and was im-
mediately deferted by Mahummud Ameen Khan, and all the Too-
raunee Moguls, though they had been purpofely appointed for his
protection, at this crifis, by Aulumgeer. In addition to this mif-
fortune, ’ Zoolfeccar Khan, his bittereft enemy, who had once
confined him at the fiege of 2 Iinjee, lay in his route with a confi-
derable army, fo that it was probable his perfon would be feized
by this nobleman, in order to obtain the favour of the new empe-
ror. Azim Shaw had difpatched orders to that effect j but Zool-
feccar Khan, either from policy or companion, did not obey them,
and Kaum Bukfh arrived in fafety at Beejapore, which he was al-

1 Anglice, Lord of the deftroying weapon. This was the name of a fcymetar
belonging to Ali, fon-in-law to the prophet.

1 A celebrated fortrefs in the Carnatic.

MOGUL EMPIRE.

lowed to keep, as his brother, being eager to quit Dekkan, did not
endeavour to remove him.

Azim Shaw now proceeded with the Imperial camp towards
Agra, by regular dages, as if the principal of a caravan, and taking
the route of Toomree, quitted the broad and eafy road of Akber-
pore, on his left ; proving, by this imprudent dep, that, when
deitiny is unfavourable, man always doeth that which is wrong.
The route of Toomree was hilly, full of woods, and, for many
long fpaces, void of water; fo that, during two days march, great
numbers of men, women, children, and animals, perifhed through
fatigue and third:. It was remarked by numbers, at the time, that
this foreboded evil to the fortune of Azim Shaw ; for he had rafhly
negledted the example of his father Aulumgeer, who, when march-
ing againd 1 Dara Shekkoh, had chofen the route of Akberpore.

I mud now return to the affairs of Bedar Bukht, whom it was
my fortune to join. This prince, on the death of Aulumgeer, re-
ceived orders from his father, Azim Shaw, to march immediately
from Guzarat, and proceed towards Lahore, to prevent the advance
of Shaw Aulum from Cabul. Bedar Bukht had the greated and
mod fincere affedlion for his grandfather, who equally loved him ;
and on that account the father and fon became jealous of each other.
Upon receipt of the melancholy news, he was overwhelmed with
real grief, which dwelt long upon his mind ; for, when I faw him
afterwards at Oojein, he would frequently weep at recolledtion of
his lofs. In obedience to the orders of his father, he departed
from Guzarat without delay, at the head of only three thoufand

1 A moft excellent and authentic account of this prince’s adventures and misfor-
tunes may be feen in Bernier’s Travels, which are bound up in Churchill’s and Lord
Oxford’s Collection of Voyages. Dow alfo details them; but I prefer Bernier’s
account, as more artlefs.

horfe*

J-4

MEMOIRS OF THE

horfe, his own dependants, and carried with him about thirty
lacks of rupees in treafure, property of his own, not prefuming to
touch 1 twenty lacks in the Imperial treafury, left it fhould raife
fufpicions of his fidelity in the mind of his father. For the fame
reafon, he made not any addition to his force, though he could
with eafe have railed a great army, and might have procured a
1 corore of rupees from the bankers and renters, by way of loan,
without oppreflion, as did 2 3Moraud Buklh, when he marched
from this province againft Dara Shekkoh.

On the eve of his march, he difpatched a letter to me and feveral
others on his route ; but the couriers brought none to hand in due
time, the public roads being guarded by officers, who had orders
to fearch all meffengers, and infpedt letters. As the prince expected
me on the frontiers of Malwa, he was much difappointed on his
arrival there, and repeatedly exclaimed, cc What can have happened,
“ to prevent the coming of Eradut Khan.? ” My enemies, and
feveral envious perfons, took occafion to defame me, faying, that I
would never join him j for, knowing the jealoufy between him and
his father, who was now emperor, I was gone to court his favour.
In this manner did my enemies add refs him, till he arrived near
Oojein j when, not finding me there, in fpite of his regard and
reliance upon me, fufpicion found room in his mind of my fidelity.

2 Two hundred thoufand pounds. -

a One million ditto.

3 Anglice, Accomplifher of the wifla. Youngeft fon of the emperor Shaw Jehaun,
and brother to Aulumgeer, who, having made ufe of him to attain the defeat of his
elder brothers, confined him in the fortrefs of Gualiar, and afterwards had him put to
death, on his being tried and condemned for murder, on the accufation of a dependant,
whofe father he had executed for fome crime, when in power. Aulumgeer was
obliged to difplace the firft judge before whom the caufe w'as brought, as he refufed to
give fentence, faying, that a prince putting a man to death in the exercife of his au-
thority, for a crime, ought not to be accounted murder.

MOGUL EMPIRE.

Ac length, on the firft of 1 Mohirrim, the prince’s letters were a.h. mg,

° ... A. C. 1707.

Brought me altogether, and immediately after, having loaded a
fmall tent and fome neceffaries on two trained camels, I departed
from Mandou, leaving the fortrefs in charge of my dear relation
and friend, Meer Sunjir.

The prince had been for fome time encamped near Oojein, .
waiting for the lucky day to make his entry into that city, fo that
by chance I reached the camp at the inflan t of good fortune. He
was moving in his 2 3 nallekee towards the. town, when he perceived
me at a diflance, and faid to his attendants, “ . s not that Eradut
“ Khan that I fee? ” And was fcarcely anfw'ered, when I came up.

He flopped his train, and opening wide his arms, cried, “ Come,

“ come my frwnd ! in expectation of wht m my eyes have, been
“ flretched, even to dimnefs.” I killed his feet, and prefented my
offering. He preffed my head to his bofom, and taking off his
3 neem-afleen, put it on my fhoulders. His firfl words were
lamentations mingled with tears, for the deceafed emperor his
grandfather, for whom he knew the fincerity of my grief. He
then ordered me to mount my horfe, and ride near him ; and, as
we proceeded to the city, related all that had happened to himfelf,
and his anxiety at not meeting me on the borders of the province.

When I had fatisfied him for my delay, he commanded thofe who
had fpoken againfl me to quit his prefence, with much difpleafure,
and refufed to admit them again for many days.

1 The firft month of the Arabian year.

* A canopied litter peculiar to the princes, and allowed now and then to fome few
great officers of Fate. It is generally of rich materials, and often entirely of filver.

It is carried on the fhoulders of twelve or fixteen bearers, on three poles, one on each
fide, like our fedans, and the third running under the middle of the machine.

3 An upper robe with half-fleeves, commonly made of gold or filver tiflue. For a-,
prince, or perfon of high rank, to confer any part of his own drefs on an inferior, is
accounted a very great honour to the receiver.

Bedar.

1 6

MEMOIRS OF THE

Bedar Bukht did not remain in the palace of Oojein ; but, after
viewing the city, pitched his camp on the bank of the river, at
about a cofs diftant. Here he was attended by 1 Abdoollah Khan,
the foubadar of Malwa, and continued one month and twenty days,
expecting the arrival of his father, when that rafh prince wrote,
him the following firmaun :

“ Why have you not haftened on, nor funk the boats in the
<c z Suttulludge, to prevent the approach of the enemy ? Though
“ he dare not face me, yet you have been guilty of high negledt.”

Soon after my arrival in camp, the prince fent a J Nifhaun,
with the following words in his own hand, to my dear fon
4 Huddaiut Oollah Khan, then Fojedaur of a diftrid: of about two
days journey from Oojein.

“ Your father, one of my moft efteemed dependants, attends
<c the Birr up. I am furprized that you have not as yet come to the
“ prefence.”

My fon, in reply, wrote to the prince, that he fliould fhortly
feek the honour of an audience j but privately to me, defiring that
I would reprefent to his highnefs, what refped would not permit
him to mention himfelf. This was, that though I had no force
under me, yet my attendance and advice might be of ufe ; but that
he,' unlefs at the head of troops, could do no fervice ; that he had
then with him two thoufand veteran foldiers, all his followers for
twenty years, who would accompany him without the limits of his

* Slave of God.

1 One of the five great rivers between Cabul and Lahore.

3 The letters of the emperor are ftyled firmauns, thofe of princes, nifhauns.

* Directed by God.

government.

MOGUL EMPIRE.

government. Of thefe he had fent a return to the prince, whom
he would immediately attend, on the advance of a month’s pay to
enable him to march ; but without that they rauft be excufed.

His highnefs, in anfwer to this meflage, faid to me, “ To give
<c Huddaiut Oollah this fum, or much greater, I would not hefi-
“ tate ; but, alas ! fhould I call in fuch a force, as your attachment
c< to me has been reprefented to my father in a fufpicious view by
“ interefted perfons, he would inftantly, on the junction of your
“ fon’s troops, be convinced of my difloyalty, and turn his arms
“ from Shaw Aulum againft me. Write this to your fon.” I did
fo; and he declined coming to the camp, writing to me the
following words : “ I refign you to the prote&ion of a gracious
<{ God, fince I am prevented by my ill-fortune from paying my
“ duty in perfon. I wifh you could leave the party with which
“ you are engaged, as I fee deftiny will to it prove unfavorable.”
God be praifed, that from his prudent caution, my dear fon
remained fecure from the enfuing troubles.

Bedar Bukht, agreeable to the orders of his father, moved
towards Agra, and was joined from the prefence by Zoolfeccar
Khan, Ram Sing Harrah, zemindar of 1 Koteh, and Dulput
1 Bonedela, alfo Amaun Oolla Khan, who were fent by Azim Shaw,

1 A principal zemindary in Malwa, now much circumfcribed by the Mharattas,
who allow the raja, a defcendant of Ram Sing’s, but a very fmall proportion of his
lands. ,

a The Bonedela tribe of Rajapootes are the pofleffors of Bonedelcund, an extenfive
tradl, lying partly in the Agra, and partly in the province of Allahabad. Their proper
chief, the raja of Oorcha, defcended from Ber Sing Deo, the founder of the family
importance, pofleffes but little territory, far the greateft part having been wrefted from
his houfe by Chutterfaul, one of a younger branch of the Bonedelas, whofe defcendants
now hold his eftates jointly with the Mharattas, who have a third part of the lands, and
produce of the diamond mines of Pima,

1 8 MEMOIRS OF THE

as much to guard the prince’s motions as to affift him. * Meerza
Raja Jey Sing, z Khan Aulum a Dekkan chief, with his brother
3 Munnower Khan, and other officers, alfo joined from the prefence,
with about fix thoufand horfe.

The prince 4 Mahummud Azeem Oofhawn, who had, by
Aulumgeer’s orders, left his government of Bengal to proceed to
the prefence, had reached the vicinity of Agra, when he heard of
the emperor’s, deceafe ; upon which he marched to fecure that city
for his father, Shaw Aulum. 5 Mukhtar Khan, the foubadar,
who was attached to Azim Shaw* and father-in-law to Bedar
Bukht, hoping to impede his progrefs, funk all the boats in the
Jumna, and placed guards at the neareft fords. But, alas ! what
power had fuch a vadal to face the fon of his decreed fovereign ?
The prince moved higher up, and having eroded the river, took
him prifoner j but regarding his former fervices, and thofe of his

1 Zemindar of a confiderable territory in the province of Ajmere, named Ambeer;
but fince this prince’s founding a new city called Jeypore, the rajafhip has alfo taken that
name. Jeypore is reckoned the moil regular built city in Hindoftan ; and Europeans,
who have feen it, fpeak highly of its magnificence- Jey Sing was a great encourager of
fcience, and built feveral obfervatories for aftronomical ftudies. He alfo erected a
caravanferai and market in every province of Hindoftan, for the convenience of tra-
vellers, at his own expence- The prefent raja of Jeypore,, his grand-nephew, poflefles-
the city, but not much territory, part of which has been feized by vaftals of his family,
and part by the Mharattas and Mogul chiefs, to both of whom he is tributary. Jeypore
is the great mart for horfes from Perfia and the northern provinces of Hindoftan ; and
the old citadel of Ambeer, dole to it, is laid to contain vaft wealth laid up by Jey Sing.
This will probably one day fall into the hands of the Mharattas, if they are not foon
diverted from their operations in this part of India, by troubles in Dekkan, that ftiall
furnilh them employment nearer home.

1 Anglice, Lord of the world.

3 Enlightened lord

4 Anglice, Of high dignity; fecond fon of Shaw Aulum, the eldeft furviving fon.
cf Aulumgeer.

5 Anglice, Powerful lord.

family.

MOGUL EMPIRE.

Lamily, did not offer him perfonal injuries. It had as Vet been the
ufage of the princes of this illuftrious houfe, though a nobleman
according to his connections with one of them, appeared againft
another in the field, that the vi£tor did not put him to death, or
difgrace him. On the contrary, the fidelity and valour difplayed
by him, in the caufe of a defeated rival, were fure recommendations
to the conqueror’s favour. The princes knew that the liability of
power and regulation of empire refted on the fupport of an expe-
rienced nobility, and they would frequently obferve, “ that their
“ enmity was not to the throne ; for whenever a prince became
“ fixed upon it, they were faithful fubjeCts. If then we deftroy
“ them, through whom c£n we adminifler the government.” By
this wife policy of the Imperial family, the rules and order of the
extenfive empire of Hindoftan remained uninjured by the quarrels
of the princes. — But to return to my fubjedt.

When Mahummud Bedar Bukht -approached the banks of the
’Chumbul, and Azim Shaw arrived near "Gualiar, Azeem Oofhawn
detached a confiderable body from Agra, under J Motuflium Khan,
to guard the fords. Bedar Bukht was fond of enterprize, jealous
of his honour, and of high mind tempered with prudence. A
rivalfhip for glory had always fubfifted between him and his father,
Azim Shaw, who was of raflt courage, and never looked beyond
the prefent in his conduCt. Like the 4 whifker-twifling vaunters

* A river in the province of Agra.

4 One of the moft celebrated fortrefles of Hindoftan, an elegant plate of which,
with the account of its capture by a detachment under colonel Popham, in 1780, has
been given to the public by major Rennell; but another, on a larger fcale, with a
more minute defcription of the place, is now preparing by the ingenious Mr. W. Hodges,
well known for his drawings under Captain Cook, and for his views of places in India,
taken by himfelf on the fpot.

3 Dignified.

* The twift of the whilkers in India, and the outrageous cock of the hat in England,
are alike charatteriftic,

D z of

MEMOIRS OF

THE

of Hindoflan, if his fon made any delay on his march, he would
jeft and fneer, attributing it to cowardice, and dread of the enemy.
On this account, Bedar Buhkt refolved to crofs the Chumbul im-
mediately, and attack the pods of Motufhum Khan j but this
proceeding was ftrongly oppofed by Zoolfeccar Khan, an experi-
enced general of approved conduct ; upon which a ftrange conten-
tion took place, which is worthy of relation.

A number of low-minded perfons, vain and imprudent, fuch as
are too frequently the favorites of princes, who thought themfelves
capable antagonists for the nobility of Azeem Ofhawn, regarding
this as a fit opportunity to fhew their loyalty and attachment, in-
terfered in the condudt of affairs. As Zoolfeccar Khan, in the
opinion of fome, was fufpeded of treachery, they feized this occa-
fion to perfuade the prince that he correfponded with Shaw Aulum,
and wifhed to delay engaging till his approach, in order to com-
plete his defigns of defertion to his caufe. God only knows the
heart, and perhaps it might have been fo j but, in the eye of un-
demanding, good policy alone feemed to influence his conduct in
this affair.

When he was informed that the prince had refolved on crofting
the river the next morning', he repeatedly reprefented, through the
proper officers, that fuch a ftep was by no means advifeable at the
prefent crifis ; but the prince refufed to take his opinion. Upon
this, Zoolfeccar Khan went himfelf to his highnefs’s tents, and
requefled an audience, fetting forth, that he had affairs of import-
ance to communicate ; but the prince would not admit him, and
fent word, that nightly council was unlucky, therefore he muff
wait till the morning. I had heard of Zoolfeccar Khan’s advice
during the day, and of the prince’s diffent, but knew not what had
paffed at night for I made it a rule never to go to his councils,

unlefs

MOGUL EMPIRE.

unlefs called upon ; and his highnefs had never failed, till now, to
fend for me. It happened, that I had been this day to vifit Zool-
feccar Khan, at his earned: requeft, but not a word on the affair
in debate palled between us. Some envious perfons, however, took
this occafion to perfuade the prince, that I was a partner with the
general; and, notwithflanding his conviction of my fidelity, his
highnefs, in his prefent humour, believed them. Hence it is, that
the ancients obferved, <c We fhould never rely on the favour of
“ princes ; for when their minds are difgufted, though without
“ caufe, a thoufand years of confidence may be deftroyed in one
“ inftant of fufpicion.”

The day following, fuddenly, before morning prayer, the march
of battle was founded, and the prince, completely armed, mounted
the elephant which he always rode in the day of aCtion. I was at
my devotions, when I heard the drums; but drefling myfelf in
hafle and aftonifliment, I fpeeded to attend him. He had moved
fome diftance from the tents before I came up. I found him, with
an angry countenance, and contemptuous exclamation, uttering
reproachful terms of Zoolfeccar Khan, as deceiver, traitor, falfe
wretch, and the like, to fome fervile attendants round his elephant ;
but, on perceiving me, he became filent, and looked more dif-
pleafed. According to cuflom, I alighted from my horfe to make
my obeifance, of which he took no notice, nor fpoke, nor fmiled
upon me as he was. wont to do, but turned his head another way.
Though much hurt at this flight, I took my Ration as ufual on
his right hand, clofe to the ear of his elephant, and ruminated on
the change in his behaviour, while my enemies, who during the
night had formed this 1 telifm, were rejoicing all around at my
diflrefs. Though his highnefs did not fpeak to them after my

* Charm, or talifmam

arrival.

MEMOIRS OF THE

arrival, yet I judged, by their exulting, and winking to one
another, that fomewhat highly pleafing to them had happened.

Juft then, Zoolfeccar Khan Tent an officer to requeft I would
attend him ; for he hoped that, at my defire, the prince would
alter his intention of palling the river. I informed his highnefs of
the officers coming, for I never vifited any of the nobility without
permiffion. Upon this, he angrily exclaimed, " Go ! 1 Your
xt quiver alfo hangs at his belt ! ” I then delired the officer to
return, and tell what he had heard, as I could not go j but the
prince, with a furious afpedt, cried out, c{ Be gone ! Why don’t
“ you go to your friend ? ” At beholding this, a giddinefs feized
my brain, and 1 became diftradted ; for I never expedted fuch
words from him, whofe favour I thought fincere, and prided my-
felf on deferving, by my fidelity. I became raging, ralh, and im-
petuous, and faid, “ What bufmefs can I, the humbleft of the
** humble, have with nobles of* Zoolfeccar’s exalted rank ? He
<c was the firft general of your grandfather j but your father has
<£ now detached him under your command, and certainly the
<c power is at prefent in your hands, to treat him as you pleafe.”
His highnefs, upon this, more angrily than ever, exclaimed.

Surely the emperor hath not made you my tutor ! ” What
fhall I fay ? Heaven and earth feemed to fall at once upon my
fhoulders, and I wifhed to die that inftant ; but thefe words invo-
luntarily flipped from my tongue : “ What is my ability, to be-
<c come tutor to a prince like your highnefs ? Yet, fhould the truft
*£ be offered me, I would rather fly from fociety with a fhorn head,
<£ than accept it.” To this he made no reply, and I quitted his
perfon without ceremony.

* An idiomatical expreflion, fignifying that he was attached to his party.

I had

mogul empire:.

I had not gone far, when the generous, forbearing, patient and
benevolent prince, cherifher of his friends, lent to me the 1 daroga
of his khowaus, to fay, as from himfelf, “ What troublefome
“ dreams hath my friend feen, to diforder his imagination, and
“ make him rave ? Know you not, that fpies have prejudiced my
“ father againft you, as my advifer ? Therefore, as much con-
“ tention palled lad: nighty between me and Zoolfeccar Khan, and
‘c I have juft now infulted that deceitful traitor, I fpoke angrily to
“ you alfo, to remove fufpicion of my treatment of him proceeding
“ from your counfel, not fuppoling you could mifapprehend me."
Upon this, I flopped till the prince came up, when he called me
to him, and fmiling, whifpered in my ear, “ I have beheld your
“ deep penetration.” I replied, “ I did not expedt fuch expreffions
“ from your highnefs.” He anfwered, “ I alfo wifhed. to try
“ your patience, my friend, who pretend to fo much prudence,.
“ with fuch heat and paffion.” Having faid this, he took from
his neck a large cornelian of * Yemmun, on which were engraved
fome prayers in a beautiful charafler, and giving it to me, faid
aloud, “ Admire this graving !” at the fame time nodding that I
fhould keep it ; but I returned it, fignifying privately, that the
gift was improper before fo many envious witnelfes. At length,
my late exulting and mean-fpirited enemies, feeing me again in
favour, retired to a diflan ce, and left me to converfe with his high-
nefs ; who then faid, “ Surely you mufl have forgotten what my
“ father wrote to me, concerning you, three days fince, and my
“ anfwer to his majefty !” That affair I will relate.

The prince had three days before: received a hrmaun under hia
father’s own hand, and I went with him to meet it, agreeable to
cuflom. About midnight, he fent for me again, and carried me

* Overfeer of domeftic attendants, * Arabia Felix,

into

MEMOIRS OF THE

into the (leeping apartment of his 1 mahal, where he had been
fitting with the mother of 1 Bedar Dil, who retired as I came in, to
another chamber. He gave me the firmaun, and dedred me to read
it. In it was written, in Azim Shaw’s own hand, the following
fentence : cc You are day and night confulting with Eradut Khan j
“ I wifh to know for what purpofe !” When I had returned the
paper, his highnefs alked what was fit to write in anfwer.

I replied, “ I am your fervant. Difmifs me for the prefent,
“ and when my duty is requifite, I will' indantly return.” He
exclaimed, “ You mud not leave me ; but fome anfwer mud: be
“ written. I will attempt one; but you mud alfo compofe
“ another, and we will fend that we both approve.” He then gave
me pen, ink and paper, from his dandifh, and feated me at a lamp.
He wrote, and I wrote. When we had finifhed, it appeared, on
companion, that we had both written the fame, almod without
the difference of a word, as follows :

<c It mud be remembered in the facred mind, that your majedy,
<c in palling through Malwa to the prefence of the J Shadow of
<f God, faid to your Have, Eradut Khan is our houfehold fervant ,
“ truly loyal , wife and experienced. I give him to you , that , when
<c important affairs Jhall come in agitation, you may confult with him .
“ Health to your majedy ! What crilis of affairs can be more im-
“ portant than the prefent ? According to the orders founded in
“ benevolence, I do confult with him daily, on all affairs public
“ and private. I know not what fufpicions thofe admitted to the
<( prefence may have formed of this faithful fervant, but, were
“ they communicated to me, I could remove them to the fatisfac-
“ tio.n of your majedy.”

* The ladies apartments. a His fon ; Anglice, Vigilant mind. 3 The

•emperor Aulumgeer.

The

MOGUL EMPIRE.

The prince applauded me much, and faid, “ with this able
<£ judgement and the fimilarity of our difpofitions, how can I
“ avoid giving you my efteem ? ” But to be fincere in this affair,
juftice was on the fide of Azim Shaw ; for Bedar Bukht was rival
to his father, and waited opportunity to dethrone him. As for
me, I was never in the iervice of Azim Shaw, nor had ever made
him profeflions of duty, being wholly devoted to his fon.

Being alone with him one night, he fuddenly threw his arms
about my neck, and holding down his head upon my breaft, faid,
“ If a fovereign and parent feeks the life of a fon, and that fon is
“ truly informed of his intention, how fhould he aft in felf-
*{ defence ? Have you a precedent for it ? ”

I replied, “ Such a queftion is unneceffary. The behaviour of
<c your 1 2 3 grandfather to his father is a fufficient precedent ; and
<c fovereigns are forced to expedients which are not juftifiable in
tc other men.”

Converfation of this fort often paffed between us; and one
evening he afked me, how he might gain an opportunity of feizing
his father. I replied, <c An opportunity will offer thus : When
tc he has gained the viftory over Shaw Aulum, you will be the
" firft to congratulate him. The troops will then be feparated
tc here and there in fearch of plunder, or looking after the dead
“ and wounded ; and, as the tents will not be ready, your father
“ will be only under a 1 fhaumianeh, furrounded by a few ? kanauts,

1 Alluding to Aulumgeer’s dethronement of Shaw Jehaun;

2 A canopy of cotton cloth.

3 Walls of cotton cloth, which are always pitched round the tents of all who can
afford them. The principal chiefs have them, enclofing ground of a great extent
round theirs. They have a very fplendld appearance. Bernier gives a good descrip-
tion of a Mogul camp, to which the curious may refer,

E '

<c You

MEMOIRS OP THE

“ You will be admitted to audience, attended by fuch of your fol-
“ lowers as may have deferved notice in the adtion by their gallant
“ conduct ; and, at fuch a time, they will be allowed their arms.
“ It is probable your father will not have many perfons with him
“ between the kanauts. Then is your time.” The prince eagerly
exclaimed, “ You have fpoken well ! Dare you, at fuch a time,
“ ftrike the blow ? ”

I replied, that though the a£l was eafy, yet a facred oath relied
upon our family never to Ihed the blood of a prince unlefs by-
chance in battle, if engaged in the caufe of a rival, when it would
be excufable. I then faid, “ Your other opportunity will be thus :
“ Ihould the enemy fly, an army will be fent in purfuit, and pro-
“ bably under your command, while your father, fetting his mind
“ at eafe, will be employed, without fufpicion, in pleafure and
<c rejoicing. You may return fuddenly upon him, and gain your
“ wilhes. Should this opportunity not occur, as you are his eldell
<c fon and have feen much fervice, he will certainly appoint you to
“ the government of Dekkan. You will have then a powerful
tc army at your difpofal. As your father’s behaviour is difguftful
“ to the people, and many of the courtiers diflike him, they will
aid your pretenfions. Ufe open force, and try for whom God
“ will decide.”

Bedar Bukht, having eroded the Chumbul at an unobferved
ford, the troops of Azeem Oofhaun, who were ftationed on the
banks of the river in another quarter, left their artillery in the
various polls, and fled to Agra, happy to fave their lives. Zool-
feccar, who had advifed the prince to remain on the other fide,
feeing he had crofled, now came up reluflantly, and congratulated
him on the fuccefs of his march. This fubmiflion pleafmg his
highnefs, he refolved on the morrow to honour him with a viflt,

7 in

MOGUL EMPIRE.

-7

in order to atone for his late behaviour. Zoolfeccar Khan,
hearing of his intention, lent a meflage to me, defiring that I
would perfuade him to lay it afide, as hi,s highnefs’s vifit would
occafion various reports, and the caufe be inferted in the intelligence
of the fpies, with remarks that would injure the prince and himfelf
in the opinion of Azim Shaw.

I was preparing to execute the commiflion ; but before I could
leave my tent, Zoolfeccar Khan paffed by, having refolved to go
himfelf to the prince. Begging pardon for his boldnefs, he pre-
fented a ’garland of flowers to his highnefs, who, foftened with
his humility, fhewed him more favour than was confident with his
own dignity. It was a rule of Aulumgeer’s, never to {hew fuch
condefcenfion to the nobility, as to make them think themfelves
too neceffary to him, but he conducted himfelf fo as to be held in
refpe£tful veneration by thofe even neareft his perfon. Certain it
is, that too much humility in a fovereign lofes him the objedl for
which it is affumed. The prince, having honoured him with the
robe he had on, and a rich z firpeach of jewels, difmiffed him with
numerous profeffions of kindnefs.

Zoolfeccar Khan the fame evening made another vifit, when I
only was fitting with the prince, and thus began to offer his advice :
“ Since your highnefs has croffed the river, as the prince Azeem
“ Oofhaun is near, it is proper to march towards him immediately,
tc left your father fhould conceive evil fufpicions, or the army

1 Garlands made of the chumbeely, a fort of double jafmine, are always introduced
with the betel at entertainments, and prefented to the guefts ; alfo taflels of the fame
for the turban, and fometimes leaves of gold and filver foils, #are interwoven with the
flowers.

* The firpeach is a jewel for the turban. A kulghee, or egret, is generally worn
with it.

E z V fuppofe

MEMOIRS OF THE

“ fuppofe that you fear to engage him.” The prince did not
anfwer him, but nodding to me, faid, “ Have you heard what he
“ obferved ?” I replied,. “ Yes ; and he is an experienced general
" and faithful fervant ; yet there are fome points to be confidered.
“ Though engaging Azeem Oofhaun is no hazardous enterprize,.
“ yet he is alfo a prince ; and if, now your highnefs has crofted,
“ the river to meet him, he does not march this way,, the reproach
t£ of delay will reft on him. Let us confider alfo who is neareft to
“ us, Azim Shaw, or Shaw Aulum. If the former, let us march :
** yet Azeem Oofhaun, if defeated, has the city of Agra for a re-
u fuge, to reduce which muft require fome days. His father may
" alfo arrive with his vaft army, faid to be an hundred thoufand
“ horfe, and he has already with, him thirty thoufand. If Zool-
“ feccar Khan judges he can, without the aid of your father,,
** engage thefe two armies, and a prince of Shaw Aulum’s expe-

rience and valour, what can we dread ? Let us march.” Zool-
feccar Khan, in reply to this, only faid, as was his manner when
pleafed, “ Good ! good ! good !. He hath fpoken well,”

Some days after this, Azim Shaw approaching near, Bedar Bukht
moved a cofs in front, the fpot he was upon being. chofen for his
father’s tents * and the morning of his arrival* went two cofs from
the camp to meet him. Azim Shaw loved him as a fon, though,
from the attention fhewn him by, Aulumgeer, he had regarded him
as a rival. When he now beheld him, ^after long abfence, paternal
fondnefs for the inftant overcame, his jealoufv, and he received him
with ftrong marks of affedtion, conferring upon him a princely
khelaut, with the 1 chaurkub, a ftvord fet with jewels, . elephants
and horfes. The prince, after the interview, alked me if I would
not pay my refpedls to his father : to which I replied, that I did

* An upper robe, never conferred but on princes of the royal family, the vizier of
&e empire, and Ameer al Amra.

not

MOGUL EMPIR E.

not wiffi it, having no defire to engage his notice, or embrace his
fervice but, upon his obferving that my declining it would occa-
fion much fufpicion, I confented, and was introduced. Azim Shaw,
upon feeing me, faid, “ Are you alfb come ?” I replied, “ Yes*
tc but without orders. I left my ftation, though far diftant from
<c the route of your majefty. Who elfe has done fo ?” He con-
ferred the ufual khelaut upon me, and gave orders for my being,
employed..

Empire having been decreed to Shaw Aulum, from the agency
of deftiny, fuch vanity took polfeffion of the mind of Azim Shaw,
that he was convinced his brother, though fupported by the
myriads of 1 Toor and Sullum, durft not meet him in the field*
Hence, thofe who brought intelligence of his approach he would
abufe as fools and cowards, fo that no one cared to fpeak the truth .;
as was formerly the cafe with the emperor. 1 Humaioon, during the
rebellion of the Afghan Shere Shaw. Even his chief officers feared
to difclofe intelligence ; fo that he was ignorant of the fuccefsful
progrefs of his rival.

f i • •

At length Shaw Aulum having reached J Muttra, fent by a cele-
brated dirveffi the following mdfuage to Azim' Shaw. “ By the
“ divine aufpices, we inherit from our anceftors an extenfive
“ empire, comprehending many kingdoms. It will be juft and
“ glorious not to draw the fword againft each - other, nor confent^

* Vaft armies, mentioned in the Koraun.

1 Father of Akber. See his reign in Dow’s Hiftory.

3 A city about eighteen cofs N. of Agra, much venerated by the Hindoos, it being-
the birth-place of their god Kifhen. There were formerly very rich temples in it;
but one, more celebrated than the reft, and eredted by Ber Sing, deo raja of Oorcha, .
coft thirty-fix lacks of rupees. It was razed by Aulumgeer; \yho built a mofqzc on
the ftte with the materials. Muttra, however, has kill many temples, which, are
vihted by pilgrims from all parts of India, .

“ to

3°

MEMOIRS OF THE

Sunday, the
1 8th of Ru-
bee al awul,
A. H. 1 1 19.
A.C.ijqy.

i( to flied the blood of the faithful. Let us equally divide the
“ empire between us. Though I am the elder, I will leave the
“ choice in your power.” Azim Shaw, vain-glorious and haughty,
replied, that he would anfwer his brother on the morrow in the
field, and upon this, the meflenger departed. Azim Shaw marched
the next morning, and encamped between Iajoo and Agra, on a
barren plain void of water, fo that the army was much diftrefled.
Intelligence arrived during this day, that Shaw Aulum was
encamped feven cofs diftant, and intended moving on the morrow,
but to what quarter was not known.

I have already mentioned, that my defign is not to write the
hiftory of kings, but of myfelf, and what I have feen. Accord-
ingly, of the battle between the brothers, I fhall only relate fuch
circumftances as I was an eye-witnefs of.

The morning dawned; but what a dawn! Darting fire, and
tinged with blood ; of whofe horrors the laft day can only prove an
imitation. Call it not morning ; it was the day of judgment !
Call it not dawn ; it was the evening of death ! Call it not day,
but the gloomy eve of the woes of time !

Mahummud Bedar Bukht, who commanded the advanced corps
■of the army, having given the necefiary orders, began his march.
He was mounted upon his favorite elephant, and his molt valued
attendants were near his perfon. Zoolfeccar Khan with the two
Raujepoet chiefs. Ram Sing and Dulput Roy, alfo A maun Oollah
Khan, followed them, inclined fomewhat to the left of the prince.
The main body of the army marched next, in the center of which
rode Azim Shaw, furrounded by his courtiers and a numerous
band of Mogul, Afghan and Hindoftanee 1 munfubdaurs, of

* Anglice, Holding rank. Perfons of family, but without titles of nobility.

approved

MOGUL EMPIRE.

approved valour. We had not as yet learned the polition of the
enemy, or what was the delign of Shaw Aulum.

Mahummud Bedar Bukht had reached a village, near which was
a ftream of clear water ; and fome wells were alfo round about it.
The troops at this time were much feparated, and every chief, inat-
tentive to order, moved as he chofe. Seeing which, I reprefented
to the prince, that the main body was far behind ; that the country
in his front was deftitute of water for fome miles, and the day pro-
mifed to be diftreflingly hot. Without order, without intelligence
of the enemy’s motions, where would he haften ? I remarked the
Scattered march of his followers j Zoolfeccar Khan obliqued fo far
to the left as fcarcely to be vifible, and other chiefs equally diftant
in every quarter. I obferved, that, if he halted here till fome news,
arrived of the enemy, there was fufficient water to refrelh the.
troops, the artillery would come up, the emperor have time to
join, and order be reftored in the line ; alfo that, fhould the enemy
advance upon him, he would have the advantage of good ground',
and plenty of water. He replied, “ Your advice is juft. Go, and.
“ inform my father I ftiall follow it.”

It happened alfo, that Shaw Aulum had no advice of the route
of our army ; and, as there was but little water where he was
encamped, he had this morning difpatched his main body under
1 Monauim Khan, while he, with his fons and perfonal attendants,
hunted along the bank of the Jumna. His 1 * peefhkhaneh, with the
ufual efcort under 3 Rooftum-dil Khan, was coming on in front of.
the army, in the fame route as our line.

1 Anglice, Fortunate. He was chief minifter to Shaw Aulum.

a Anglice, Advanced houfe. The Hindoftanee chiefs have always two fets of
tents, &c. one of which is always difpatched, in front of the army, to the next ground
of encampment, and pitched for their reception.

3 Anglice, Of heart like Rooftum, the celebrated champion of Firdofi’s Shaw--
nammeh, or Fliftory of Periian Kings.

Upon

MEMOIRS OF THE

Upon the delivery of my mefiage to Azitn Shaw, he replied,
t{ It is very well. Go, and inform my fon I am coming up.” I
returned to the promifed place of halt ; but what did I behold !
The prince had marched on, and left the village unguarded. I
fpeeded after him, and, upon gaining the line, faw a joyful fcene
of congratulation on vidtory. When the prince faw me, he eagerly
exclaimed, t{ I congratulate you on vidtory!” I replied, “ How
“ comes vidtory, without a battle ?” Upon which his highnefs,
turning to a courier, faid, “ Tell Eradut Khan what you have feen.’'
This foolifh wretch then affirmed, that he had feen the * Sewarree
elephant of Shaw Aulum, without a rider, and with but few at-
tendants, running off towards Agra. The prince then faid, that
our left wing had defeated the enemy, and taken all their baggage.
The caufe of this imaginary vi&ory was thus : The advanced
baggage of Shaw Aulum falling in with our left wing, was at-
tacked, and, the effort being fmall, foon taken. The elephant feen.
running away, belonged to Rooftum-dil Khan, who commanded
the effort.

The prince, however, now ordered me to go and inform his
father of the vidtory, fuppofing that my being the bearer of good
news would give me favour in his mind. I declined going, and
obferved, that I could not carry intelligence fo very ridiculous and
groundlefs ; upon which the prince was angry, and exclaimed,
“ What do you mean ?” I replied, “ Let us reafon on the fub-
“ jedt. Is not Shaw Aulum the fon of Aulumgeer, and claimant
<£ of the throne ? Has he not advanced from Cabul to Agra, with
“ four fons, valiant like himfelf, and a great army ? Can then any
<c perfon of judgment even fuppofe, that he fhould bafely fly
" without a battle, or even having feen his enemy ? What dread

* That on which he ufually rode.

can

MOGUL EMPIRE,

“ can have feized him, who was a valiant leader in the wars of
“ Dekkan, againft 1 Samba, * Sunta, and 3 Dhunna ? Accidents
<£ will happen to the baggage of armies, and this boafted vidtory
<£ is no more. Your troops have plundered his advanced tents;
££ but woe to thofe who have been thus employed ! If important
££ fervice fhould now offer, they will be ufelefs, confufed as they
££ are, and encumbered with fpoil.” To thefe remarks the prince
angrily exclaimed, ££ You are always apprehenfive, and foreboding
“ ill!” He then ordered Cafim, the *darogah of his divan, to
carry the intelligence of victory to Azim Shaw.

Scarce half an hour after this had elapfed, when a great duft
arofe upon our right. Upon this, I faid to the prince, " Behold
<£ the confequence of our vidtory, and the flight of Shaw Aulum !
«£ Yon cloud precedes at leaft fifty thoufand horfe.” Juft as I
had concluded, another dull: arofe, which certified a fecond body
of troops approaching. I defired his highnefs to prepare for adtion,
while yet the enemy was at fome diftance. He then faid, <£ Will
££ you now go, and inform my father of the enemy’s approach ?”
To this I replied, “ Though I wifh not to quit your highnefs ’s
“ perfon, yet, as I am ordered, I mull: obey and, having faid
this, I rode off with fpeed towards Azim Shaw. On my way, I
beheld ftrange diforder. Amaun Oollah Khan, a reputed good
officer, who adted as s herauwul to the prince 6 Wallajah, I met
with only two or three hundred ftraggling horfe. Azim Shaw was

f * Son to the celebrated Mharatta chief Sewajee, whom he fucceeded ; but was taken
prifoner, and put to death by Aulumgeer.

1 Another fon of Sewajee.

3 A famous Mharatta chief.

4 Superintendant of the hall of audience.

5 Leader of the advanced corps.

6 Anglice, Of high rank. He was younger fon to Azim Shaw.

a cofs

MEMOIRS OF THE

a cofs and a half farther in the rear, and his troops become fepe-
rated into three divifions, fo that I could not eafily diftinguifh the
royal port: ; for the train of artillery had been left in Dekkan, and
the ftandard elephants were out of their ftations, fo that there was
nothing to mark the emperor from a diftance. When Terbeut
Khan was removed from the command of the artillery, and his
fucceffor applied for orders concerning it to Azim Shaw, he was
much enraged, and paffionately exclaimed, “ Do men think that I
<c will ufe cannon againft a ’breeder of cattle? I will not even
“ draw the fword, but bruife his head with a ftaff.”

At length I perceived the imperial 1 * 3 umbrella, and haftened to-
wards it. Some of the courtiers, who always firft received intelli-
gence, that they might accommodate it to the humour of their
mailer, demanded my bufinefs j but, not liilening to fuch weak
flatterers, I rode on. When Azim Shaw faw me, he made a fignal
for me to advance ; but, fuch was the crowd, I had fcarce ability
to puih through it. At length, having come near to his travelling
throne, I alighted from my horfe, and faid, “ The prince informs
“ your majefly of the enemy’s near approach.” What jfhall I fay?
Azim Shaw, ftarting as if flung by a fcorpion, with furious looks,
eyes rolling, and, as was his cuftom when angry, pulling up. his
fleeve, exclaimed, “ Comes an enemy to me!” Being vexed at
his manner, I replied, “ So it appears.” He then called aloud for
his war elephant, and, in a frantic manner whirling a 4 crooked

1 Alluding to the bullocks ufed for the draft of the artillery, univerfal in Hindoftan.

* The umbrella is one of the imperial enfigns ; and, when the etiquette of the court
was kept up, no fubjeft dared to carry one.

3 A feat, or rather fmall couch, fixed on three poles, like the nallekee defcribed in a
former note.

* A fhort crooked ftaff, about three feet in length, not unlike a crofier, ufed. by
-Takeers to lean on when they fit, and often by perfons of rank as an emblem of humi-
lity, and having declared themfelves difciples to feme holy man.

ftaff.

MOGUL EMPIRE.

ftaff, Rood upright in his throne, and tauntingly faid, tc Be not
<£ alarmed ! I am coming up to my fon.” Hurt at this infult to
the fpirit of my prince, I faid, “ His highnefs is fon to yourfelf,
<c afvlum of a world, and knoweth not fear. He only reprefents
tc the enemy’s approach, that your majefty may advance with the
“ troops, and take the poll ufual for the emperor in the day of
“ battle.”

Having faid this, I rode off to rejoin Bedar Bukht ; but fuch
crowds furrounded me to afk for news, that I could not difengage
myfelf till within a rocket’s flight of the prince. Juft as I had
reached him, the enemy began to cannonade, and a ball ftruck the
breaft of an attendant clofe to his perfon.

As I had not been undreffed for the laft two nights, and was
exceedingly fatigued with hard riding, the fun and wind being
burning hot, my ftrength now failed me, and I fainted away. My
brother, feeing this, lifted me from my horfe, laid me on the
ground, and loofened my armour, but could get no water to revive
me. The prince, obferving my diftrefs, generoufly fent me a fmall
veffel from his elephant, which gave me new life. I untied the
folds of my veft, and poured fome of the water on my breaft, but
was ftill too faint to rife. By this time, Azim Shaw was come up;
but, contrary to the cuftom of the emperors, whofe ftation is the
rear of the center, pufhed on towards Bedar Bukht, and his
attendants crowded after him without order. Ameer Khan palling
by, and feeing me on the ground, offered me a feat with him on
his elephant, as did others of my friends ; but I refufed them all.
At length my own elephant arriving, I mounted, and lay with my
breaft bare upon three fkins of water, which luckily for me were
in the feat, to prevent my fainting a fecond time. The train ele-
phants of Azim Shaw, thofe of his women, of the. treafury, and

F 2 the

MEMOIRS OF THE

the jewel office, now pufhed between me and BedarBukht, fo that
I was removed fome diflance from him.

The two bodies of the enemy had now approached, and halted
within a 1 rocket’s flight of our line. One of thefe was headed by
the prince Azeem Oofliaun, the other by Monauim Khan, with
whom were alfo the princes * Moiz ad Dien Jehaundar Shaw and
* Jehaun Shaw. Our line was fo prefled upon on each flank, and in
the rear, by baggage elephants, cattle and followers, as greatly to
incommode the troops, and render them ufelefs. Shaw Aulum’s
artillery played upon us inceflantly, and did great execution ; and
his fons advancing, fired Ihowers of mufquetry, which fell like
hail. A line of rockets extending in front of our army, was re-
peatedly difcharged with great effect. The fun, obfcured by dufl: and
fmoke, was in the meridian, and the heat exceffive. At length our
troops, grown impatient from the galling of the enemy’s cannon,
prepared to charge. This being told me by my brother, who fup-
ported me on the elephant, I raifed myfelf as much as I could,
adjufted my armour, and obferved the motions. I faw Khan Aulum
move towards the enemy with great rapidity, upon which I waved
my handkerchief as a fignal for the prince Bedar Bukht to follow,
which he did, fo that I fhortly could fee only the top of his
4 amaury. As to myfelf, I could not move, being wedged in by
the crowd of elephants around me.

■ The rocket in India is ufed in war, and the chamber being made of iron, does
execution wherever it ftrikes, but cannot be fent in true dire&ion. It will reach from,
three to four hundred yards.

a Anglice, Refpe&er of the faith, king pofleffing the world ; eldeft fon of Shaw
Aulum.

3 King of the world j youngeft fon of Shaw Aulum.

* A canopied feat for an elephant. An open one is called howzah, or howdah.

M O G-U L EMPIRE.

As Khan Aulum advanced nearer the enemy, his followers di-
minifhed, gradually lagging behind, and not above three hundred
Ruck by him to the charge. When I faw this, I well knew that
all was loft. The brave chief, however, penetrated to the elephant
of Azeem Oolhaun, and hurled his fpear at the prince, but it
miffed him, and ftruck the thigh of an attendant ; when the prince
drew an arrow, which pierced the heart of Khan Aulum, and he
died on the inftant. His brother, Munnower Khan, was alfo
wounded. Their followers fell back in the utmoft confufion, and
fled, as did the greateft part of our right wing, leaving the prince
Wallajah in a manner alone j but, notwithftanding this defertion,
he heroically kept his poft. Amaun Oollah Khan, feeing his
danger, h aliened to fupport him, when unluckily a rocket lighting
in the pad fupporting his feat on the elephant, it took fire, and<
burnt fo furioufly as to pain the animal, who turned back. The
khan, half burnt, fell to the ground ; and his troops, thinking he
was killed, fled in diforder. The prince Wallajah, upon this, ve-
treated for fhelter towards Bedar Bukht.

A body of the enemy, under Bauz Khan Afghan, now attacked
Zoolfeccar Khan, but was repulfed with great lofs, and the chief
badly wounded ; but, by the decrees of Providence, Ram Sing
Harra, and Dulput Raow Bonedelah, on whofe valour and con-
duct Zoolfeccar Khan moft depended, were both killed at the fame
inftant by a cannon fhot; upon which their raujepoots loft all.
confidence, and fled with the dead bodies of their chiefs. Zool-
feccar Khan, however, yet remained firm with his own followers 3
but, upon being charged by the whole of Azeem Oofhaun’s divi-
fion, he left the condudt of the battle to Syed 1 Muzuffir, and
retired to the rear of Azim Shaw’s poft with Hummeed ad Dien
Khan, and, having difmounted from his elephant, fled on horfe-

* Vi&orious,

back

MEMOIRS OF THE

back to Gualiar, where he was received by his father, 1 Aflud Khan.
His flight determined the rout of our army.

* 4 „ , ’ 1 J. v V * \ j • • -I. ». f . t

The principal followers and perfonal attendants of Azim Shaw
now difmounted, and laying their quivers on the ground, fat down
to wait the charge of the enemy, and fell their lives in defence of
their patron. Syed Abdoolla, and his brother Houflein Ali Khan,
of the illuftrious houfe of Barreh, ever celebrated for valour, whofe
anceftors had in every reign performed the moil gallant actions, if
poffible fuperior to their fires, defcended from their elephants, and
prepared to engage on foot. The battle now raged hand to hand
with fabres, and great daughter on both Tides. Houflein Ali Khan
received feveral wounds, and fell down faint with the lofs of blood.
Amaun Oolla Khan was killed. -Terbeut Khan, Muttullub Khan,
and Khoodabundeh Khan, having expended all their arrows, ufed
their fabres; but the former was foon killed by a mufquet ball, and the
two latter fell down faint with many wounds. Suffawee Khan, of
the royal houfe of Perfia, Meerza Abdoolla, and a numerous band
of great officers of Azim Shaw, were flain, after each had (hewn the
valour of Rooftum in his defence. At lafl: a mufquet ball, and
feveral arrows, flxuck the prince Bedar Bukht, and he funk down
dead upon his elephant. I faw him fall, and in the agony of grief
exclaimed, “ Hadfl: thou not, O God, created ambition of crowns
“ and thrones, the head of my prince had not been thus humbled .
<c in dull and blood ! ”

Azim Shaw, though much wounded, was ftill alive, when a
whirl of dull winded towards him from the army of Shaw Aulum.
From this now ifliied Monauim Khan with a feledt band, the
princes Azeem Oofhaun, Moiz ad dien Jehaundar Shaw, and
Jehaun Shaw. Azim Shaw foon received a mortal wound from a

1 Anglice, Lion j fignifying like one in valour.

mufquet

MOGUL EMPIRE.

mufquet ball, and refigned his foul to the Creator of life. The
prince Wallajah alfo funk down in the fleep of death. I now made
my efcape towards Agra, not chufmg to go to the enemy’s camp,
though I had many friends, who would have given me protection,

Rooftum dil Khan, who, as already mentioned, commanded the
efcort of Shaw Aulum’s advanced tents, when attacked in the
morning by our troops, finding his efcape cut off, paid his refpedts
to Azim Shaw, and had continued near his elephant during the
battle, till his death, with great firmnefs. Seeing him dead, he
afcended the elephant, and cutting off the head of the corpfe,
remounted his horfe, and haflened to the camp of Shaw Aulum.
With exulting hope of great reward, he laid his prize at the prince’s
feet ; but the compafiionate Shaw Aulum, feeing the head of his
flaughtered brother in fuch difgrace, fhed tears of affeCtion, and
gave him nothing but reproaches. He ordered the head to be
buried with proper refpeCt, and forbad the march of victory to be
beaten.

: r\ - . r - S \ > zi.n t‘ ■. f •>

Monauim Khan took charge of the bodies of the unfortunate
princes, and treated the ladies of their harams with the utmofi:
refpeCt and tendernefs. Though he had received a dangerous
wound, and buffered extreme pain, he concealed his fituation, and
continued on the field tilt late at night, to reftore older and prevent
plunder. He could not difmount from his elephant without help
and was obliged, no pallekee being at hand, to be earned in a cloth
to the p re fence of Shaw Aulum. His eldeffc fon, Nyeem Khan,
alfo was dangeroufly woundfed by a ball in the neck, and was reco-
vered with difficulty. Shaw Aulum puffed the night under afhau-
mianeh on the field of battle, and the next day, having attained
the important objeCf of empire, with his mind freed from the
8 ‘ • 1 ' * dread

4°

MEMOIRS OF THE

dread of a rival, moved in triumph to the gardens of 1 Dhera,
round which his army encamped.

I fhall now relate fome particulars neceffary to be known con-
cerning Shaw Aulum ; his march from Cabul, and other proceed-
ings, to the day of engagement with his unfortunate brother A'zim
Shaw.

Some time before his death, Aulumgeer had appointed Monauim
Khan to be * dewan to Shaw Aulum, who then held the govern-
ment of Cabul. This nobleman was of great abilities, aCtive in
the cabinet, refolute in execution, and of unbending integrity of
mind. He foon arranged the prince’s affairs, which, before his
coming into office, were always in confufion, owing to the afcen-
dancy of unworthy favourites. Diffolute and oppreffive, they,
from felf-interefted motives, interfered with the duties of a dewan,
and prevented him from doing juftice. A fuperfluous foldiery was
kept up, exceeding the ability of the revenue, and, being confe-
quently ill paid, was ever mutinous and difcontented. At the
fame time the houfhold of the prince was diftreffed. Monauim
Khan, refpeCted from the efteem in which he was held by the
emperor, and his already eflablifhed character of great ability, foon
gained the perfect confidence of Shaw Aulum. He diminifhed the
prince’s army, but took care to pay that on foot regularly, fo as to
leave no room for difcontent, or excufe for licentioufnefs. When
he had thus reformed affairs at Cabul, he left his fon as his deputy
there, and removed to Lahore, the collections of which province
were full of abufes. He had refolved to amend them, and fuc-
ceeded, fo as to render the majority of all ranks pleafed with his
adminiftration. When he heard of Aulumgeer’s illnefs, in order

* About three cofs, or fix miles, from Agra. * Manager of the revenues.

MOGUL E M P I R E.

to prevent cabals in favour of Azim Shaw, he circulated a report
that Shaw Aulum would not contend for empire, but feek protec-
tion from his brother by a flight to Perfla. Shaw Aulum had him-
felf, indeed, made this declaration long before ; and with fuch
apparent refolution, that it was believed, and dreaded even by his
fons, who refided with him. Monauim Khan related to me after-
wards the following anecdote, in thefe words :

“ When I perceived that my attachment, flncerity, and abilities,
“ had properly imprefled Shaw Aulum’s mind, and that he was
<c convinced I was a prudent, faithful and fecret fervant, being
ct alone one day with him, converfing on the affairs of the empire,
<c I took the liberty of thus addrefling him : It is reported that your
tc highne/s intends flying to Perfla , with fo much confidence , that even
“ the princes , your fons , affure me by f acred oaths of its truth. He
<f replied. In this rumour there lies concealed a great deflgn , to for-
t( ward which , I have fpread it abroad , and taken pains to make it
cc believed . Firfl , becaufe my father , on a mere fu/picion of difloyalty ,
“ kept me nine years in clofe confinement ; and , Jhould he even now
“ think I cherifloed the fmallefl ambition , he would immediately flrive
tc to accompli/!) my ruin. Secondly , my brother , Mahummud Azim
<c SbaWy who is my powerful enemy , and valiant even to the extreme
c< of raflmefsy would exert all his force againfl me. From this report >
<c my father is eafy , and my brother lulled into felf- fecurity ; buty by
“ the Almighty God who gave me life , laying his hand on the Koraun
“ by him, and on this holy book , I /weary though not one friend Jhould
“ join mey I will meet Azim Shaw in Jingle combaty wherever he may
“ be. This fecret , which I have fo long maintained , and even kept

from my own children y is now entrufted to your care. Be cautious
“ that no inflance of your conduit may betray it ! ”,

MEMOIRS OF THE

To proceed. When the news of Aulumgeer’s death reached
Monauim Khan at Lahore, he wrote immediately by exprefs to
Shaw Aulum, conjuring him to march with the utmoft expedition
towards the capital, without anxiety or preparation, as he fhould
find artillery and all fupplies ready at Lahore. This wife minifter
then prepared bridges over the various rivers, fo that not a day’s
delay was occafioned in eroding to the prince’s army, which at
Lahore was joined by a powerful train of artillery, with fufficient
draft. He alfo paid up all the troops, and advanced large fums to
new levies. Shaw Aulum, by long marches of ten and twelve cofs
=each day, foon arrived in the neighbourhood of Dhely, and Mo-
nauim Khan entered that city with a feled party. The officers of
Azim Shaw were alarmed, and either fled, or concealed themfelves
in difguifes. 1 Mahummud Ear Khan, the kelladar of the palace,
a cautious perfon, and ever looking into futurity, though he knew
mod; of the great ameers had embraced the caufe of Azim Shaw,
yet was fo awed with the vizier’s gallantry, and the arrival of Shaw
Aulum, that he faw no fecurity for himfelf but in refigning his
charge. He accordingly gave up the palace, in which were the
treafures of Hindoftan, colleded from the reign of Akber to the
prelent times. Thus was Shaw Aulum, by the activity and refo-
iution of his fervant, made mafter of funds to fupport (if he chofe)
all the troops to be levied in the empire. The army was now
increafed to one hundred thoufand horfe, and foldiers of every call
and fed: flocked in crowds to the imperial ftandard, where they
were received with proper encouragement and amply paid. Mo-
nauim Khan advanced with fome chofen troops before the prince
to Agra, and though Bedar Bukht was at the Chumbul, and Azim
Shaw arrived at Gualiar, he was not alarmed, but encamped im-
mediately before the citadel. 1 Baukee Khan, an old imperial fer-

* Anglice, Friend of Mahunjmud. * Anglice, Conftant.

vant,

MOGUL EMPIRE.

vant, and governor of the fortrefs, which he had refufed to refign
to Azeem Oofhawn, being certified that Shaw Aulum was ap-
proaching, did not chufe to refill longer, but fent offers, that if
Monauim Khan would come firft alone into the citadel, he would
refign the command. He accordingly, without the leaft diftruft,
entered over a narrow plank, only paftable for a fingle perfon,
which was placed over a deep ditch from a fmall wicket to admit
him. As he had made a forced march from Muttra, of twenty cofs,
he now lay down to take a few hours reft, till all his followers
arrived. After this refrefhment, he fealed up the treafury, polled
his people at the different gates, and about midnight went to vifit
Azeem Oofhawn, who was encamped at the diftance of fix cofs, to
whom he offered much friendly advice for his conduct to his father,
who was jealous of his loyalty. When the news of the furrender
of the citadel of Agra reached Bedar Bukht at 1 Dholepore, his
fpirit was broken, and the crimfon of his hopes faded into pale
defpair. I was with him at the time, and perceived that he re-
garded every thing as loft. He immediately fent an account of the
event to his father, who had not yet heard of Shaw Anlum’s
arrival at Muttra, as his weak fervants, fearful of his difpleafure,
and the ufual grofs abufe, dared not to inform him. At length
Shaw Aulum made the propofal of a divifion of the empire, which
was refufed, and two days afterwards the conflidl enfued, as above-
mentioned.

Without doubt, Shaw Aulum’s fucceffes, and his attainment of
the empire, were owing to the condufl and valour of this great
minifter yet he never fet forth himfelf as having done any extra-
ordinary fervice, but would often fay to his majefty, that empire
was the particular gift of God, and that no obligation could be

* A town on the bank of the Chumbul, in the province of Agra,

G 2 laid

MEMOIRS OF THE

laid on fovereigns ; fo that, if any one thought himfelf conducive
to their fuccefs, it was, in them, vanity and folly. To me, from
whom he kept not his inmoft thoughts, he would fay, “ Kings,
“ through the blaze of fplendor, cannot fee impartially ; therefore,
“ if any perfon prefumes upon fervices, and would fhew that he
“ thinks them an obligation on his matter, the jealous difpofition.
“ of royalty cannot bear it, and reje&s the claim, as was clearly
“ proved in the proceedings of the emperor Mahummud Akber,

and 1 Beyram Khan, his afluming minifter.”

It is now neceffary to fay fomething of the four fons of Shaw
Aulum, their dilpofitions and behaviour, both in public and pri-
vate.

4 Moiz ad Dien Jehaundaur Shaw, the eldeft, was a weak man,
devoted to pleafure, who gave himfelf no trouble about ftate affairs,
or to gain the attachment of any of the nobility, as will be feen
when I come to relate his reign.

Azeem Oofhawn, the fecond fon, was a ftatefman of winning
manners. Aulumgeer had always purfued the policy of encou-
raging his grandfons, and employing them in public affairs ; for,
as his fons were ambitious, of great power, and at the head of
armies, he thus prudently controuled them, by oppofing to them
enemies in their own families, as Bedar Bukht to Azim Shaw, and
Azeem Oofhawn to Shaw Aulum. To the latter he had given the
advantageous government of the three provinces of Bengal, Bahar,
and Oriffa, from whence he had now come with a rich treafure,

1 Beyram Khan, on the death of Humaioon, became regent during the minority of
Akber, who, at the age of feventeen, not chufing longer to be governed by a fubjedf,
difplaced him.

* Anglice, Refpe&er of the faith.

and

MOGUL EMPIRE.

and confiderable army } and though in the late battle he had per-
formed great fervice, yet he was fufpe6ted by his father, and
dreaded as a rival : but to relate the caufes would be ufelefs pro-
lixity.

1 Rufreh Oofhawn, the private companion and favourite of his
father, was a prince of quick parts, a great proficient in religious
learning, a fine writer, and of much knowledge in the law, but at
the fame time addi6ted to pleafure, particularly fond of mufic, and
the pomp of courtly fhew. He paid no attention to public affairs,
or even thofe of his own houfhold.

z Khojefteh Akhter Jehaun Shaw had the greateft fhare of all the
princes in the management of affairs, before his father’s acceffion.
to the throne j after which, the whole adminiflration of the empire
was long influenced by him. He had the clofeft friendfhip and
connexion with Monauim Khan, who, by his intereff, was ap-
pointed vizier.

When Shaw Aulum had repofed from the fatigues of war, he
took meafures to reduce Kaum Bukfh, who had affumed the imperial
titles in Dekkan. It was not fuppofed that he could make much
oppofition, but in the opinions of the wife and underftanding
prejudged, that his behaviour would of itfelf ruin him in that
country.

Monauim Khan now called together, by attention and confoling
behaviour, the unfortunate nobility of Azim Shaw, who had
efcaped from the late battle to different places. Zoolfeccar Khan
had fled to his father, 3 Affud Khan, who had the charge of Azim

* Anglice, Of high rank.

a Of happy ftar ; king of the woild.

* Anglice, Lion.

• ■ v Shaw s

MEMOIRS O E THE

Shaw’s baggage in Gualiar. The vizier had taken pains to con-
vince his matter, that the ancient nobility were the pillars of the
ftate, and that the welfare of the empire depended on their perfons,
whofe anceftors had held high offices, and acquired influence and
refpeft with the people, fo that it was proper and politic to employ
them.

As the vizarut had been conferred on Monauim Khan, at his
requeft, the moft dignified office of 1 vakeel muttulluk was en-
trufted to Afliid Khan, and that of 1 meer bukflii to his fon Zool-
feccar Khan, with the title of Ameer al Amra. The fecond
bukhfliifhip was conferred on Meerza ! Shawnowaz Khan Suffawee.
Monauim Khan, regardlefs of trifles, fubmitted to fit below Afliid
Khan in the divans, and to fhew him every refped as his fuperior
in office. The government of all Dekkan was granted to the
ameer al amra Zoolfeccar Khan, who performed the duties by his
deputy, Daood KhanPunnee, while he in perfon attended the court.

Monauim Khan, fincerely loyal, generous in mind, and full of
zeal for the fervice of his matter, never preferred the gratification
of his own paffions to the welfare of the ftate, or honour of the
fovereign. He both advifed and adted what was for his glory.
For example, moft of the ameers of Aulumgeer had accompanied
Azim Shaw, and fought againft Shaw Aulum in the late conteft,
confequently were liable in juftice to whatever evils or punifhments
he chofe to inflid upon them ; but Monauim Khan became their
general interceflfor, reprefenting to the emperor, that they were

* Anglice, Univerfal agent. This is an office fuperior to that of vizier. It is
feldom filled up, but in time of great emergency ; but it was lately conferred on the
infant Peifhwa, by his prefent majefty of Dhely, though it cannot be confidered now
but as an empty honour. It feems to have been no more to Aflud Khan.

1 Chief paymafter.

3 Anglice, Favoured by the king.

excufable,

MOGUL EMPIRE.

excufable, having only obeyed an heir who fat upon the throne,
which, as affairs were circum danced at that time, they could not
avoid ; that, after they had become his friends, 1 eaten of his fait,
and made new compadts and declarations in addition to their former
vows of allegiance, they could not in honour abufe his confidence
by treachery or defertion. He obferved, that the empire of Hin-
doftan was a Rate not to be kept in order by one or two perfons ;
that, like the magnificent pavilion of * Soleymaun, many drong
pillars and powerful cords were required to fupport it, and keep it
on a lading footing ; that the noble families, who from generation
to generation had the benefit of experience, a knowledge of the
cuftoms of the empire and rules of government, were alone fuited
to high employments j that mod of the prefent nobility had alfa
held for many years important offices, and acquired wifdom and
knowledge. He faid, that, if they were not dill entruded with
the pods of greated confidence, there would not remain a podibility
of fupporting the rules of the empire, or obtaining able datefmen
or good generals. He advifed his majedy to reward amply thofe
perfons who had joined his dandard from every quarter, and done
good fervices, agreeable to their merits j but without exalting them
beyond their abilities, obferving that many of them had only been
dependants on the princes and nobility, others again only fervants
to fojedaurs and governors of towns. Where then could they have
acquired judgment in politics and knowledge of government, dig-
nity of manner, or fortitude to fupport the power of command ?
He obferved, that fuch accomplidrments were inherent to noble
birth and liberal education, the natural confequence of fuch ad-
vantage. Such was the vizier, of wdrofe mader (worthy of him) I
now fpeak.

1 This expreflion implies a very ftrong connection in the original idiom.

* a According to Mahummedan tradition, Solomon had a very iumptuous pavilion
made for him by the Genii.

1 - ,\

Shaw

MEMOIRS OF THE

Shaw Aulum was generous and merciful, of a great foul tem-
pered with affability, difcerning of merit. He had feen the ftribt
exdrcife of power during the reigns of his grandfather and father,
and been ufed to authority himfelf for the laft fifty years. Time
received a new luftre from his acceffion, and all ranks of people
obtained favours equal, if not fuperior, to their merits ; fo that the
public forgot the excellencies and great qualities of Aulumgeer,
which became abforbed in the bounties of his fucceffor. Some
narrow-hearted perfons, however, out of ingratitude and envy,
attributed his general liberality to ill-placed extravagance and pro-
fufion ; but it is a fabt, that the deferving of every profeflion, and
worthy of all degrees, whether among the learned or the eloquent,
the noble or the ignoble, received an attention from tire throne,
which the eye of time prior to this had never feen, nor had fuch
been heard of before by the ears of fame. His perfonal qualities
and perfections, fpeech is unequal to relate. His valour was fuch,
that he had refolved on meeting Azim Shaw, whofe bravery was
celebrated, in fingle combat. His four fons, poffeffed of great
power and confiderable force, he buffered conftantly to be near his
perfon, never giving himfelf a moment’s fufpicion regarding them,
nor preventing their forming conne&ions with the prime nobility j
upon which fubjebt I, the humbleft of his flaves, once ventured to
prefent him a petition of a cautionary nature, thinking it my duty,
as I had often done fo to Aulumgeer. To what I reprefented, he
wrote a wife and juft reply, which, by God’s permiflion, I will
one time or other relate. He permitted the fons of thofe princes,
who had fallen in battle againft him, to appear at all times com-
pletely armed in his prefence. The infant children he let remain
unmolefted with their mothers, while thofe arrived at manhood
daily accompanied him in the chace, unguarded, and fhared in all
his diverftons. His court was magnificent to a degree beyond that
of Shaw Jehaun. Seventeen princes, his fons, grandfons, and

6-v1 nephews.

MOGUL EMPIRE,

4gr

nephews, fat generally round his throne, in the manner following :
— On his right-hand, Jehaundaur Shaw, his eldeft fon, with his
three fons, his third fon Ruffeh Oofhawn with his three fons, and
Bedar Dil, fon to his nephew Bedar Bukht. On his left, Mahum-
mud Azeem Oofhawn with his two fons, and Jehaun Shaw with
his fon. 1 Ali Tibbar, the only furviving fon of Azim Shaw, fat
on the right hand of Azeem Oofhawn, and a little to the right,
fomewhat advanced, the two fons of Mahummud Kaum Bukfh.
Behind the royal princes, on the right, flood the fons of conquered
fovereigns, as of Secunder Adil Shaw of Beejapore, and Koottub
Shaw, king of Golconda ; alfo a vail: crowd of the nobility, from
the rank of feven to three thoufand, fuch as were allowed to be on
the platform between the filver rails. How can I mention every
particular of the fplendid fcene ? On the 2 eeds, and other feftivals,
his majefty, with his own hands, gave the betel and perfumes to
all in his prefence, according to their ranks. His gifts of jewels,
dreffes, and other favours, were truly royal. When in private, he
dreffed plain and humbly, like a religious, and daily, without fail,
prayed with many in company. Frequently on holidays and Fri-
days, when travelling, he would read the prayers himfelf, in the

•

* Anglice, Of high defcent.

2 The Mahummedans have two grand eeds or holidays, one at the conclufion of
the ramzaun, and the other on the anniverfary of the day on which Abraham cqnfented
to facrifice his fon. On thefe days, tents are pitched about a mile diftant from the
city, to which the emperor goes in great ftate to pray, and on his return receives
prefents from his ameers, on whom he confers honorary dreffes according to rank.
The fame ceremony is obferved in every town, by the governor. At the laft eede,
after prayers, a camel is facrifihed, and a fmall part of it dreffed, and eaten on the fpot
by the emperor and his attendants. The cavalcades which I chanced to attend on
each of thefe days, at Lucnow and Banaris, were very brilliant, and ferved to give an
idea of the aftoniffffng fplendor which muff: have graced thefe in the flourifhing times
of the empire. It is probable Mr, ZofFani may offer the public a view of the proceffion
at Lucnow, on the ffrff: eed in 1784, as he was prefent, and took a (ketch of it.

H grand

MEMOIRS OF THE

5°

grand tent of audience, and repeat portions of the Koraun with a
tone and fweetnefs which captivated the moll eloquent Arabians.
He never miffed the devotions of the latter part of the night, and
frequently employed the whole in prayer. In the early part of the
evening, he had generally an affembly of the religious, or learned
men. He himfelf related ’traditions, in the number of which he
excelled, as well as in a knowledge of the holy laws. He had ex-
plored the different opinions of all febts, read the works of all
free-thinkers, and was well acquainted with the hypothefes of eacln
On this account, fome over-ftribt devotees accufed him of hetero-
doxy in his religious opinions, through mere envy of his fuperior
abilities. I heard moft of his tenets, and lamented the infolence
of his vain critics ; for it was as clear as the fun, how juft and
orthodox he was in his opinions on religious points. But how can
I enumerate all his perfebffons ! It would fill volumes to recite but
a fmall part ; therefore I fhall defift, and now relate, as briefly as
poffible, the expedition of his majefty to Dekkan, againft the
death-devoted Kaum Bukfh.

It has been already mentioned that the late emperor,, a few days
before his death, difpatched Kaum Bukfh to Beejapore. This
prince was of an excellent memory, learned, and a pleafmg writer,
pofieffed of all outward accomplifhments in a high degree ; but
there was in his mind a flightinefs that approached near to infanity.
He feldom remained a month in his father’s prefence, but, for fome
mift>ehaviour, he was reproved, degraded, or confined ; and fome
abis were done by him, to mention which would be unworthy of
me. When he arrived at Beejapore, he immediately proclaimed
himfelf in the ^khootba, and ftruck coins in his own name. What

follies

* Anecdotes and maxims of the prophet.

1 The khootba is a form of prayer, in which the fouls of all departed-patriarchs and
prophets are fir ft prayed for, beginning with Adam, and ending with Mahumtnud-
The fouls of the reigning family’s anceftors are then recommended to mercy, and the-

whole

MOGUL EMPIRE.

follies was he not guilty of, from the madnefs of his mind, and
the confidence he put in lying vifionaries ! Thefe wretches had
hailed each of the princes with a prophecy of fuccefiion to the
throne, fwearing they had conventions in their reveries with God,
his prophet, and the pious faints, who had promifed their affift-
ance, fo that human force was unneceffary. They allured Kaum
Bukfh, that he need not levy any troops for his fupport; for,
though an enemy fhould march againft him with all the myriads
of 1 Toor and Sullum, they .would not dare to face his fight, much
lefs engage in battle. Flattered by this, and impelled by madnefs,
the weak youth regarded himfelf as emperor, and invincible in his
fingle perfon ; to prove which, he would often relate, in a raving
manner, ftrange prognoftics and divine greetings fliewn to himfelf.
His prophets having told him, that his eldeft fon would alfo one
time become emperor, he became jealous of the innocent child,
and frequently meditated to put him to death, but was withheld
from that crime by the dread he had of Aulumgeer : however, he
kept him conftantly in confinement, miferably clothed, and worfe
fed than the fon of a wretched beggar, which- was worfe than death.
From the fame caufe, on ill-placed fufpicions, he inflidted tortures
and uncommon punifhments on the ladies of his haram, putting
many of them privately to death. To his fervants, companions,
and confidants, he often behaved with outrageous cruelty, doing
fuch acts to them as before eye never faw, nor ear had heard.

Notwithflanding thefe blots in his character, as he was a fon of
Aulumgeer, and that part of the empire had been given to him, at,
fifft moft of the chiefs of Dekkan, whether Mufiulmauns or Hin-

•whole concludes with a prayer for the profperity of the monarch on the throne, and the
welfare of his fubjedts. It is read every Friday in the njizid jamee, or grand mofque
of all towns, and on the eeds or grand feftivals.

s Two g-reat hofls, mentioned in the Koraun.

Ha doos,

MEMOIRS OF THE

doos, crowded to his ftandard, and the Imperial officers, as Syef
Khan, Rooftum Dil Khan, and others' of all ranks, joined in ac-
knowledging him emperor. Leaving his fofter-brother, Meer
Mullung, a debauched youth of neither birth or merit, at Beejapore
as governor, he marched himfelf to Hyderabad, then commanded
by Rooftum Dil Khan, who had fucceeded his father, 1 Jan-fippar
Khan, by Aulumgeer’s orders, in that government. In this pro-
vince he reduced fome powerful zemindars to his obedience, and
difplaced others.

2 Ghazee ad Dien Khan Bahadar Firofe Jung, who had acquired
a moft powerful influence in Dekkan, was chief of the Tooranee
moguls, and kept on foot a great army, had withdrawn himfelf
from Azim Shaw. He was alfo much in dread of Shaw Aulum’s
refentment, he having advifed that prince’s being confined, when
Aulumgeer was before Golconda. The late emperor had ftre-
nuoufly endeavoured to attach the Tooranees to Kaum Bukfh, and
for this purpofe had appointed for that prince’s preceptor, Syed
Oughlan Seyadut Khan, the agent at court, and bofom confidant
of Ghazee ad Dien Khan, venerated alfo by all the Toranees of
every rank. He had alfo charged them with the protection of his
perfon ; but fuch was the temper of the unhappy prince, that at a
time like this, when he claimed the throne, and, favourably for
his caule, Ghazee ad Dien Khan dreaded Shaw Aulum, he could
not make him his friend : on the contrary, he did many adts to
difpleafe him, and excite his alarms. This chief was an able ftatef-
man of long experience, who, though blind of fight, could clearly
perceive the mind of man ; therefore, whatever wifhes he might
have to enjoy the honour of making an emperor, yet he foon faw
the follies of Kaum Bukfh, and declined his caufe, as ruinous and

1 Anglice, Life-refigning.

a Anglice, Champion of the faith ; valiant and fortunate in war,

8 loft.

MOGUL EMPIRE.

loft. In a fhort time too, the chief zemindars of Dekkan, who
had in general joined his flandard, difpleafed at his condudf and
heedlefs fhedding of human blood, his inconltancy of mind and
breach of treaties, left him, and retired to their own countries,
where they took care to fecure themfelves, till the difputes for the
throne fhould be decided.

Thus, though the pretenfions of Kaum Buklli were of no great
importance, yet he was a foil of Aulumgeer, and claimed a right to
the empire. The behaviour of Ghazee ad Dien Khan alfo de-
manded confideration. ’Ajeet Sing, hereditary zemindar of Jode-
pore, and Jey Sing, of Ambeer, did not fhew that obedience and
refpedl to the throne which had been obferved by their anceftors,
and meditated rebellion. All thefe circumftances made his majefty
refolve on marching to Dekkan. The 1 khan khanan opened a
correfpondence with Ghazee ad Dien Khan, to whom he gave much
confolation, affurances of favour, and friendly advice. That ex-
perienced ftatefman, opening his eyes on the viciffitudes of life,
law it was his intereft, if his majefty would forget the pafc, and
not moleft him in his fortune, to bend his head in fubmiliion, and
retire from bufinefs to a life of devotion. His only fon, 3 Cheen
Koolich Khan, had long difagreed with him, and his brother,
4 Hamid Khan, whom he had appointed his deputy in command
of the troops, had feparated from him, and gone over to the pre-
fence. The Tooran chiefs of his houfhold alfo, when they faw
his fortunes on the decline, had left his fervice. All thefe events

* Son of the celebrated Jeffwunt Sing, who a£led fo capital a part in the competi-
tions of Aulumgeer and his brothers.

a Lord of Lords. Monauim Khan is meant by this title, which he received from
Shaw Aulum.

3 Anglice, Sword-drawing lord. He was afterwards famous as Nizam al Mulluck,

4 Anglice, Affifting,

made

MEMOIRS OF THE

made him glad to embrace the promifes of the minifter, and thank-
fully accept the foubadacy of Ahmedabad Guzarat. He accord-
ingly eroded the Nerbudda, and left Dckkan without trouble, but
his fears prevented his coming to the court. He had not been in
that of Aulumgeer fince his lofs of fight, which that generous and
forgiving prince, out of regard to his former fervices, and from
motives of policy, had excufed.

ShawAulum began his march toDekkan with an army fuperior
to that of any of the former emperors, and a fplendor till now
unfeen, having in his train all the princes, and a great concourfe
of nobility of every rank. The prudent and able Monauim Khan
took fuch meafures for the fupplies of this mighty force, exceeding
Aulumgeer’s by an hundred thoufand men, that the emperor had
no trouble or difficulty, though only in the beginning of his reign,
when the revenues of the provinces had not yet been received, nor
refpedl for the throne been properly impreffed in different quarters.
When his majefty had arrived at Aurungabad, before he would
advance towards Hyderabad, where the frantic Kaum Bukfh then
was, he wrote him feveral kind letters and friendly admonitions, to
this effedl : — “ Our ever-honoured father redgned to you only
“ Beejapore ; but we give you, in addition, Hyderabad. Thefe
t( two extenfive countries, long famous for their great kings, pro-
“ ducing a revenue more than half of Hindoftan, we leave to you,
“ without interference or reludtance, and fhall efteem you dearer
<c than our own children. Think not then of contention, nor
“ confent to died the blood of the faithful, nor difturb the repofe
“ of our government. If you give the ear of acceptance to this
“ advice, we will farther confer upon you the nizamut of Dekkan,
“ if agreeable to you ; and, after vifiting the facred tomb of our
“ father, we will return to Hindoftan.”

There

MOGUL EMPIRE.

There was no treachery or deceit in this generous offer, for
Shaw Aulum always fliewed tendemefs, liberality and affedtion, in
his condudl to his brothers. Kaum Bukfh, weak and felf- conceited
as a child, bent on error, paid not the fmalled attention to his
brother, and continued to add frefh affronts to his authority.
Roodum Dil Khan, Syef Khan of the Imperial fervants, and others
of no family or note, on whom he had bellowed titles of nobility,,
with about twenty thoufand horfe and foot, were now with himr
but, difguded at his behaviour, meditated opportunities to quit
him. Monauim Khan, with his ufual prudence, had fent them
letters, alluring them of the emperor’s forgivenefs and favour; fo
that all, even to Meer Mullung, Kaum Bukfh’s fofler-brother, had
refolved to come over, and embrace his protection ; but the prince,
fufpedting their intentions, put to death Rooflum Dil Khan, Syef
Khan,, and Meer Mullung, and plundered their families of all they
poffeffed, on the fame day, and in the fame place. He had after
tlris no officer of confequence with him, and his treafure being
expended, all his troops deferted, except about ten thoufand of the
word Dekkan horfe, and his fmall artillery ; yet he dill refolved to
hazard a battle. When Shaw Aulum arrived within twelve cofs of
Hyderabad, the unfortunate Kaum Bukfh lod daily his followers in
crowds, and mod of the zemindars of Dekkan retired to their homes;,
while the remainder mutinied for arrears, and hourly threatened
to plunder his effects. Will it be believed, that he yet determined
to redd, and expedted victory ? He even quitted the afylum of the
city walls, and encamped upon a plain about the didance of three
cofs, with his fmall force, within fight of the emperor’s army ; fa
great was his enthufiadic belief in the prophecies of his deceiving,,
and perhaps feif- deceived.,, devotees.

Shaw Aulum, from compaffion to his brother, and the hope of
yet reducing him by gentle means, would not permit his troops to

attack i

5<>

MEMOIRS OF THE

attack ; but Kaum Bukfh interpreted the inactivity of the Imperial
army into fear, from his belief that the prophecies in his favour
were now on the point of accomplifhment ; for he had been allured
by vifionaries, that, though alone, mighty hofts would never pre-
vail againft him. Accordingly, though deferted by almoft all his
followers, he yet obftinately refufed to pay allegiance to his brother.
At length the ameer al amra Zoolfeccar Khan, who had a keen
enmity againft the mifguided prince, and wiflred to Ihew his zeal

A. H. 1120. for ncw patron, refolved to feize him. He accordingly obtained

A. C. 1708. 1 . .

leave to march, under the pretence of reconnoitring the enemy,

and moved towards him with his own followers, a divifion from

the troops of Monauim Khan, and a body of Mharattas under the

chief Neema Sindia. The unfortunate prince prepared to with-

ftand fuch fuperior force ; but, being charged at once on all fides,

was inftantly deferted by all his followers, except a few perfonal

attendants. Notwithftanding this, he continued, as long as he

had ftrength, to ufe his bow and arrows from his elephant, till at

length he funk down on his feat, through lofs of blood from feveral

wounds. He was then taken prifoner by Daood Khan, and carried

to the prince Jehaun Shaw, who, with his brothers, had ftood at

fome diftance during this extraordinary Ikirmifh.

The captive prince was conveyed immediately to the Imperial
tents, and being laid upon a bed in the 1 tufhbeh khaneh, near the
private apartments, was vifited by his brother, the emperor, who
endeavoured to comfort him by every expreftion of affedlionate
concern. The phyficians and furgeons alfo attended, but he would
not allow his wounds to be dreffed, though earneftly entreated by
his majefty and his fons. He Ipoke but little 3 but when the prince
Ruffeh Ooftiawn tenderly afked, why he had refufed offers of

* An oratory, where prayers are laid.

favour.}

MOGUL EMPIRE.

favour, lie replied, “ His majefty was very gracious ; but how
“ could I fubmit to meet him in any other way than this?”
Upon J'ehaun Shaw’s repeating the queftion, he exclaimed, “ I have
“ done wrong ; do not you follow my example!” One of the
princes afking him if he had more than a thoufand followers when
taken, he angrily anfwered, “ No ; but had there been lefs than
“ five hundred, I could with equal eafe have brought myfelf here.”
He then turned to the emperor, and faid, “ There are, in a cafket
“ upon my elephant, fome jewels of our father and my own, of
“ which I beg your majefty’s acceptance.” After this he grew
faint, and languifhed in filence, without uttering a fingle groan,
till nine at night, when he refigned his foul to the Creator of life.
We are from God, and to God we muft return.

When Shaw Aulum had thus fuccefsfully concluded the war
with his brother, he did not chufe to remain longer in Dekkan,
though the affairs of that country required much arrangement, to
infure its future dependance on the empire. Perhaps he dreaded
the fate of his father, who, after the reduction of Beejapore, Hy-
derabad, and the taking of Sambah, remained to finifh fome objects
which then appeared eafily attainable, but afterwards extended in
fuch a chain, that he could not quit Dekkan for the remainder of
his life. He had often lamented this neceffity, and the relaxation
which his abfence occafioned in the government of Hindoftan ;
and would frequently fay to his confidants in private, “ My difioyal
“ fubjects have impofed upon me this play-thing, that they may
“ enjoy commands and honours.” But I am wandering from my
fubjedt. Shaw Aulum, in the height of the rains, began his march
from Hyderabad, leaving as deputy-governor of Dekkan, Daood
Khan Punnee, a native of the country, and a nobleman of great
military fame. When he recroffed the Nerbudda, it was* intended
to employ all the powers of government to fettle, in a proper

I manner.

MEMOIRS OF THE

manner, the Rajapoote countries, which had been difaffe&ed ever
fince the accefiion of Aulumgeer ; who, though offended at the
behaviour of the rajas Ajeet Sing and Jey Sing, over whofe terri-
tories he had appointed Imperial governors, yet was not able, from
the wars in Dekkan, to punifh them effectually. They had indeed
vifited Shaw Aulum, but had left his camp without permiffion, and
now openly fhewed their defigns to druggie for independence, in
clofe alliance with each other ; to bind which, Jey Sing had efpoufed
the daughter of Ajeet Sing. At this crifis, intelligence arrived that
the ' Siks had rifen in rebellion. This fe£t of infidels, known alfo
by the names of Nannukkea andGooroh, had long been eftablifhed
in the foubah of Lahore, by a teacher ftyled Nannuk. Of his de-
fendants was the prefent chief, to whom had flocked great crowds
of all ranks, refigning to his difpofal, with blind fidelity, their lives
and properties. Thus fupported, he excited fedition, and took
arms to extend his errors, and overturn the bafis of the true faith.
He engaged Vizier Khan, the fojedaur of * Sirhind, who was killed
in the a6lion, with numbers of his followers after which the
gooroh poffeffed himfelf of the town of Sirhind, and many didriCts
of Doaub, as far as 1 * 3 Boreah, Saarunpore, and Shawdourah, on
both banks of the river Jumnah, where he committed unlimited
excefles, razing all public edifices, as mofques, colleges, maufo-
leums, and palaces, killing or taking prifoners the faithful of every
age and fex, and plundering with the mod: cruel feverity. The
opprefiions of thefe wretches were every day increafing, and there
was no nobleman daring enough to march from Dhely againft them.
Afoph ad Dowlah Aflud Khan, who governed that capital, fhewing

1 They now poflefs the provinces of Lahore, Multan, and part of Dhely, plunder-
ing as far fouth annually as Rohilcund.

a A confiderable town, about fifty cofs N. of Dhely.

3 Thefe diftri&s are now held by Zabtah Khan, a Rohijla chief, who however pays
a tribute to the Siks, and it is faid has entered into their fe£t.

i great

MOGUL EMPIRE.

great figns of fear, the inhabitants were alarmed, and began to fly,
with their families and effedls, towards the eaftern provinces, for
fhelter from the impending ftorm. All this being reprefented to
the emperor, in the highefl colours, his majefty thought it beft to
march in perfon againfl the infurgents : for this reafon, he refolved
for the prefent to lay aflde the defign of totally expelling the raja-
pootes, and to confirm their allegiance, by winking at their of-
fences, till a more convenient opportunity of punifhment. Thefe
zemindars had, for generations, been ufed to obey, and had not,
in fadf, either fortitude or ability to oppofe openly the emperor of
Hindoftan, whofe appearance againfl: them in arms would have
been fufficient to curb their infolence ; but the khankhanan, alarmed
at the infmredHon of the Siks, did not properly refledl on that
circumftance, and defcended to fliew the rajapootes fuch favours as
were inconfiftent with good policy, as well as the dignity of the
fovereign : but he was not alone to blame, as there were other
agents in this bufmefs. The four princes were conflantly intriguing
againfl: each other, to obtain influence in the management of public
affairs, which occafioned much delay and confufion in bufmefs, fo
that the khankhanan thought it happy to fleer his veflel fafe through
four fuch ’great feas ; and could not adl fo independently for the
public good as he wifhed, being obliged to attend to the capricious
interefts of others, among which he found it difficult to preferve
his own. Among the remarkable occurrences of the expedition
into Dekkan, was the decline of Jehaun Shaw’s influence with his
father, and the rife of that of Azeem Oofhawn, of whom till now
the emperor had ever been fufpiciou-s. The prince Jehaun Shaw
was of haughty and independent fpirit, ready to take fire on the
fmalleft negledt. This, with the behaviour of his fervants, alarmed
and difpleafed the khankhanan, who, for his own fafety, watched

1 Meaning the power and influence of the four princes.

I 2

MEMOIRS OF THE

an opportunity to deftroy his influence in public affairs : a tafk of
no great difficulty, to one well acquainted with the difpofition of
Shaw Aulum, almoft equally warm with his fon, who had more
than once difpleafed him by his behaviour, fo that he had expreffed
to him his diffatisfaCtion. The prince, upon this, thought to
prove his difmtereftednefs and independence, by negleCting to fre-
quent the durbar, and engage in buffnefs as ufual. AzeemOofhawn,
who had reaped experience in office, and was well verfed in the
intrigues of a court, perceiving coolnefs taking place between Je-
haun Shaw and the khankhanan, paid fo much flattering attention
to the latter, that by degrees he gained his confidence. This gave
flill more offence to Jehaun Shaw, who had too much pride to
export ulate, but neglected the minifter in return. He foon after
fell ffek, and his indifpofltion continuing a long time, gave Azeem
Oofhawn ample opportunity of acquiring influence over Shaw
Aulum, and the favourites whom his majefty trufted with the
fulleff; confidence ; while he continued to be pleafed with them, but,
on the fmalleft difguft, or in their fhortefl abfence, he forgot them
altogether.

Azeem Oofhawn having thus gained the credit he aimed at with
his father and the minifter, employed it in foftening the rigour of
government againft thofe who laboured under its difpleafure ;
thinking that, thus obliged by his mediation, they would readily
return his favours, by embracing his caufe, whenever the death of
his father fhould give him a claim to the empire. It was from this
hope, that he advifed indulgence to the refractory rajas, and con-
defeended to repair to their camp, and conduct them from thence
to his father, permitting them to be accompanied by all their troops
armed. Such unufual indulgence was far from anfwering the end
expefted by the prince, who fhould have feen, that it could only
tend to difplay publickly the fears of government, and confequently

muff

MOGUL EMPIRE.

muft reflect difhonour on its advifer, and render him weak in the
eyes even of thofe to whom fuch uncommon honours were allowed.
In fli ort, the two rajas, attended by all their followers, paid their
refpedls to his majefly on the line of march, were gratified with bis
alfent to whatever their infolence demanded, and difmiffed to their
homes with rich prefents and affurances of favour.

When this affair was finifhed, the emperor marched without
delay towards Lahore, not even flopping to make an entrance either
at Agra or Dhely. In a fhort time he arrived at Sirhind, which
the rebels deferted on his approach, and retired to ’ Daber, the
original refidence of their goorroh or chief, where they fortified
themfelves as ftrongly as poffible. Though this infurrection was
not of fuch importance as to diflurb the general repofe of the
empire, yet his majefty, defender of the faith, hearing that the malice
of the rebels was diredled at religion, thought it his duty to go againft
them in perfon j in this, copying the example of Aulumgeer, who,
in the latter part of his reign, appeared at the fiege of every fort
belonging to unbelievers ; otherwife, what ability had a wretched
and infatuated rabble to dare the prefence of fuch a glorious
monarch ? The exertions of one of the principal ameers, or, at all
events, of the princes, would have been equal to the extinction of
the rebellion, and explofion of the fchifm.

The imperial army foon arrived within fight of the goorroh’s
camp, which lay round the walls of Daber on different heights,
commanding the paffes to that fortrefs, fituated on a fummit, fur-
rounded by hollows, craggy rocks, and deep paths. Shaw Aulum
had refolved to lie inadtive before the enemy for fome time, in
hopes by this to render them confident, and tempt them to an

* At the entrance of the Sewalic mountains, which conned Hindoftan with Thibet.

engagement *

MEMOIRS OF THE

engagement ; on which account he iffued pod five orders to the
princes and all the ameers, not to advance nearer the goorroh’s
lines on any pretence, however favourable. Some days palfed in
inactivity, when at length the khankhanan entreated permiffion of
his majefly to advance, with his own followers, to reconnoitre the
enemy’s pofition.: which was granted, on condition that he fhould
not commence an attack without further orders from the prefence.
However, when he had arrived within (hot of their lines, the
enemy began a warm cannonade from their works, while bodies of
their infantry on the heights galled him with rockets, mufquetry,
and arrows. Elis foldiers, enraged, were not now to be retrained ;
and the khankhanan, more jealous of his military fame than fearful
of the emperor’s difpleafure, ventured for once to difobey, by giving
directions to attack. He difmounted from hi? horfe, and led his
brave troops on foot up the mod: difficult heights, driving the
rebels from them with the greated: rapidity and fuccefs. This
fcene paffing within fight of the royal camp, the chiefs and foldiers,
emulous of glory, waited not for orders, but battened to join the
attack in great numbers ; while the emperor and the four princes
viewed the fight from the fquares of their encampments, with a
mixture of anger and fatisfaCtion. At lad: the enemy were driven
from all their works, to the narrow fummit round the fort of
Daber, where they continued to defend themfelves in a defperate
manner, but without even the hope of efcape from general
daughter ; when night coming on, rendered friends and foes undif-
tinguidiable to each other. The khankhanan, fure of having the
goorroh in his power, gave orders for his troops to ceafe'the attack,
and lie upon their arms in their prefent pofition, till the morning
fhould enable him to finidi it with fuccefs. Tie had, however,
unluckily neglected to block up a narrow path leading from the
fort to the hills, either becaufe he had not perceived it, or was
satisfied that it could not lead but to where the Imperial troops were

poded.

MOGUL EMPIRE.

pofted. The goorroh, a man of great art, generally appeared in
die drefs and fplendor of a prince, when lie wifhed to be public ;
but, if occafion required privacy, he difguifed himfelf in the habit
of 1 a jogie or fynaffee, in fuch a manner, that few, even among
his own people, could know him. During the night, he, without
acquainting his followers of his intentions, changed his habit, and
left the fort undifcovered. The khankhanan, about dawn, re-
newed the attack, and gained the place, after a fhort druggie,
fword in hand, exulting in the certainty of carrying the goorroh
dead or alive to the emperor, whofe difpleafure at his difobedience
of orders, would by this fervice be changed to approbation : but
who can relate his weight of grief and difappointment, at finding
that his promifed prize had efcaped, without leaving a trace behind
him ? The goorroh’s fpeed of foot was uncommon, and he only
acquainted with the paths and mazes through the hills that led to
the fnowy mountains, which he had marked for fhelter. The
khankhanan loft for an infrant almoft the ufe of his faculties,
which were abforbed in dread of the emperor’s anger, not without
reafon. As he was, agreeable to cuftom after an important vic-
tory, beating the march of triumph in his way to the royal tents,
orders arrived, commanding him to ftop the drums, and not dare
to enter the prefence. He retired, drowned in defpair, to his own
tents ; where he had the cruel mortification of learning every
inftant, from meftengers, that his enemies exulted in his fall from
favour, and openly condemned his conduct with malicious zeal in
the prefence of his majefty, who was highly enraged againft him.
But though this did not continue long, and Shaw Aulum, regard-
ing his former fervices, received him again into favour, after a few
days, yet this noble and faithful minifter never recovered from the
effects of the royal ingratitude. This grief, added to the pain he

1 Ss£ts of fakeers, or religious mendicants.

felt

MEMOIRS OF THE

felt at feeing three of the princes and the ameer al amra iifing all
arts to complete his ruin, ftuck like a poifoned arrow in his bread.
He loft all fatisfacfion from worldly enjoyments, the emptinefs of
which he now fo fully experienced, and from the day of his difgrace
declined in his health ; fo that not long after he was reduced to
keep his bed, where he lingered a few days, and then refigned his

.A . ri* 1 1 2 4.. ^

A. c. 1712. foul to the angel of death; who never, in the uncounted ages of
his office, feized on a foul more pure, or lefs defiled with the frail-
ties of human nature.

While Shaw Aulum, juft as a fovereign, and liberal as a man,
reigned over the empire with a gentle hand, in perfect repofe. Pro-
vidence was preparing new revolutions, and Time haftening to
difclofe events of dreadful importance. The bloftbms numeroufly
lhooting under the influence of the, Imperial fpring, were deftined
to be blafted by the ftorms of autumn, and only one unkindly fruit
to remain on the royal tree. A deadly vapour, poifonous as the
piercing venom of the fnake, all at once infefted the head and heart
of Shaw Aulum with pains, violent as from the heavy ftroke of
the keeneft weapon. So inftantaneous was the fatal effect, that it
gave full reafon to imagine it proceeded from poifon. He was ail
a.t once feized with faintings, which continued without intermiffion,

A. C. 1712. till, on the 21ft of Mohirrim, 1124, being Monday night, he de-
fer ted this vain world for that of eternity. He had been, from the
ftrft infcant of his illnefs, given over, and the princes and ladies of
the haram made continual and loud lamentations round his bed.
It happened one day, that, as Mahummud Moiz ad Dien and
Azeem Oofhawn were fitting near it, the latter, perceiving under
a corner of the pillow a dagger of very exquifite workmanfhip,
took it up to admire the jewels with which it was adorned, and the
water of the blade. Upon his drawing it from the fcabbard, Moiz
ud Dien, jealous of his brother, was feized with a panic. He

ftarted

MOGUL EMPIRE.

Parted up, and retired with fuch precipitation, that he ft ruck the
turban from his head againft the door of the tent, forgot his flip-
pers at the entrance, and fell down over the ropes. Being aflifted
to rife and adjuft his drefs by his fervants, who were aftoniflied at
his ftrange aCHons and appearance, he rode off to his tents with
all the fpeed and hurry poflible. This occafioned much alarm in
the camp, and I, among many others, haftened towards the ’dur-
bar. I met the prince, with his attendants, pufhing on his elephant
with frantic hafte ; upon obferving which, I endeavoured to pals
unobferved ; but he knew me, and fent a meffenger to call me to
him. As I had previoufly attached myfelf to Azeem Oolhawn, I
did not obey the mandate, but paffed on to the emperors tents,
where I fat down in the guard-room of i *Mahabut Khan, third
bukfhi, which was clofe to that of the ameer al amra, who did
duty there in perfon. He fent for me, and I found with him
Mirza Shaw-nowaz Khan Suffawee. I had before interefted my-
felf, at the defire of both, in bringing about a connection between
Azeem Oolhawn and the ameer al amra ; for which purpofe I had
employed Shekh 3 Coodderut Oolla as a meffenger, and fometimes
my grandfon, 4 Einaiut Oolla. The ameer al amra now defired
me to fend the latter to Azeem Oolhawn, to alk him how he could
ferve him on the prefent occafion. I fent him, but he returned
with a reply laconic and flight, as if from a nobleman of high rank
to the commander of an hundred. It was written in Shekh Coo-
derut Oolla’s (confidant to the prince) own hand, as follows : “ As
“ the Imperial fervants can know no place of fupport but this
“ court, and molt have already repaired to it, the ameer al amra
“ may alfo pay his duty, with affuranoe of a gracious reception,

1 The court of the emperor, or any other perfon in high authority,

* Anglice, Commanding awe.

3 Anglice, Providence of God,

4 Gift of God,

MEMOIRS OF THE

“ in the prefence.” Vvflien the ameer al amra read this, he Ihed
tears, and faid to me, with much emotion, “ You fee the manners
“ of the prince and his advifers ! Whatever is the will of God,
tc muft take place. Alas ! the errors of a favourite, unacquainted
tc with government, often endanger the very exigence of his
“ mailer. When fortune frowns on any one, he is fure to do
“ that which he fhould not.” After faying this, he immediately
quitted the guard-room, collefled his followers, and moved his
tents and effects to the quarter of the prince Moiz ad Dien, where

he thought his fervices more likely to anfwer his own intereft.

• ,

The camp was fo difpofed, that the tents of the emperor were
pitched along one bank of the river, and on the other oppofite,
thofe of the prince Azeem Oolhawn, at a conflderable dillance
from the 1 city. The three other princes were encamped nearer to
it, but Moiz ad Dien almoll clofe to the walls, and the greateft
part of his train occupied the houfes of the nearelt llreets. The
influence, riches and power of Azeem Oolhawn, had long raifed
againft him the enmity and jealoufy of his brethren, who had, for
their general fafety, formed a compadl to fupport each other.
The ameer alamra had formerly been difgulled at Azeem Oolhawn,
for preferring to himfelf, the khankhanan and MahabutKhan ; from
which time he had courted alternately Ruffeh Oolhawn and Jehaun
Shaw. On this occafion, he fwore to alfift the three brothers in
effecting the dellruclion of Azeem Oolhawn, and make an equal
divifion of the empire and royal treafures among them.

Azeem Oolhawn, already in pofleflion of the Imperial camp,
treafury and jewels, had alfo a vail treafure of his own. Moll of
the principal noblemen had joined him, with their followers 3 alfo

* Lahore, fituated on the river Ravvee, about 200 miles N. of Dhely.

the

MOGUL EMPIRE.

the royal artillery. He had, befides, a very confiderable army in
his own pay ; fo that his brothers, though all leagued againft him,
would have formed but a weak enemy, if he had immediately at-
tacked them. But he afled otherwife : he encamped on the plain,
keeping the river to his rear, and began to throw up works to
defend himfelf, inftead of courting a general aflion, Probably
this proceeded from tendernefs to his brothers, who he thought ,
would in a few days be deferted by their troops, for want of pay,
as they poflefled little or no money ; and that they would either
willingly acknowledge him emperor, to obtain fettlements, or be
delivered into his hands by fome of their pretended friends, to gain
his favour.

While he thus flattered himfelf with an eafy conqueft, the three
brothers, by the advice of the ameer al amra, drew all the artillery
from the fort of Lahore, and encamped their united forces in one
line, making the city their defence to the rear. I happened to be
encamped near Mahabut Khan, who immediately, on learning that
the ameer al amra had attached himfelf to Moiz ad Dien, fearing to
be plundered by his troops, loft no time in moving off with his
family and effedls to Azeem Oofhawn, leaving his tents and tem-
porary buildings (landing. No fooner was he gone, than the
rabble took pofleflion of his camp, which they fet on fire, and
levelled in an inftant with the ground. As, on many accounts, I
had refolved to embrace the fortunes of Azeem Oofhawn, I would
have gone with him ; but the camp being a (landing one, I had
neglected my tents, parted with my carriages, and eredled tempo-
rary (heds for my family, fo that I was obliged to remain in an
alarming (ituation, almoft alone, for four days. I wiflied to fend
my Women to my houfe in the city ; but the road to it led through
the allied armies, where it was probable they might be inful ted or
plundered. On the fifth day, I was eafed of my fears, as a ftrong

K 2 efcort

MEMOIRS OF THE

efcort came from the prince Azeem Oofhawn to conduft to him
Shaw-nowaz Khan, Hummeed ad Dien Khan, and fome other
noblemen, who waited for this fecurity to join him. With them I
reached his camp in fafety, where I happily got poffeffion of a
fquare walled about, but without any covering or fhade : yet even
this was as a palace at the time, as it ferved to protedl my women
and family. I now paid my refperits to the prince, who received
me gracioufly, conferred upon me many favours, and confulted me
on all important occafions. Pecuniary rewards, and titles far
above my ambition, were allotted for me, and getting ready to
pafs the feals : at the fame time, orders were difpatched to fummon
my fon, 1 Hofhe-dar Khan, to the prefence, from which he had
been detached fome time before on aftual fervice, with a feleft
force j and, to pay him, a large fum of money was fent to me.
I refufed it, however, as I had not people to fecure its fafety ; and
requefted alfo, that the rank of five thoufand, and title of Azim
Khan, which was preparing for me, might not be confirmed, till
the prince fhould become vi&orious over his enemies, as I had
made a vow not to receive them till he fhould fit unrivalled on the
throne of empire. In fa<5l, I perceived in his weak politics, and
want of refolution, the decline of his caufe ; and faw the burning
blafts of fummer haftening to deftroy the feafon of fpring, as the
experienced hufbandman can judge of his harvefls from the changes
of the atmofphere.

When Azeem Oofhawn had intrenched himfelf, and the three
brothers began their approaches to his works on every fide, his
operations became highly blameable in the eyes of the nobility and
officers of experience. It appeared to the public, that the fuperior
force dreaded the inferior j and that thofe who ought to be the

* Anglice, Endowed with judgment.

befiegers.

MOGUL EMPIRE. 6 $

befiegers, were now the befieged. Such was the effeff, for Azeem
Ooftiawn’s army grew difpirited daily, while the enemy’s gained
ardor every hour, at finding that profpedt of fuccefs, of which in
the beginning they had almoft defpaired. Our foldiers at the
works, tired wiih conftant watchings and alarms, grew remifs in
their duty: they,firft required unneceffary affiftance, and at laft
began to defert their ports. The Imperial artillery, to whom a
great fum of money had been given as a bounty, became difbbe-
dient to orders, and even mutinous, in which points they were fol-
lowed by thofe of the hourtiold. This behaviour made Azeem
Oofhawn change his opinion, that he could purchafe vkrtory with
money only j fo that he opened his treafury but fparingly to the
old or new troops, giving, with much relu&ance, only one hun-
dred rupees to each trooper who came to offer fervice with his own
horfe, for which fecurity was alfo demanded. At a crifis of this
important nature, but few were tempted to quit the fervice of their
old mafters, for a fum but inconfiderable in itfelf, and only attain-
able with fuch difficulty. In fhort, the whole camp" began to be
alarmed, and even the boldeft officers to feel a dread of the ill con-
fequences of being cooped up in unneceffary entrenchments. A
cannonade was kept up on both fides for four days,, in each of
which the three brothers gained fome advantage, by advancing their
rtations nearer to the works of the mifguided Azeem Oofhawn.

On the fifth day, Azeem Oofhawn moved from his camp in
order of battle, and his fon, the prince 'Mahummud Kerreem,
though commander of the advanced corps, was with him, inftead
of being difpatched in front, agreeably to the urtial difpofition of
the line. This was ordered, left, as the enemy were formed into
three bodies, one might gain an advantage over him, and another

* Anglice, favoured by Mahummud.

intercept

MEMOIRS OF THE

intercept his retreat to the grand line, before he could receive
"proper affiftance. - Such was the confufion in forming the troops,
that the artillery was quite ufelefsly difpofed, and many pieces, de-
fer ted by the men, lay overturned on the ground 3 while fome of
the chief officers were by their followers left almoft alone, on their
elephants, before the aflion began. Soleyman Khan Afghan firft
advanced to charge the divifion of Jehaun Shaw, but he was fup-
ported by fo few of his followers, that he could effect nothing, and
was killed in the onfet, before he had reached the enemy’s poll.
Jehaun Shaw moved Readily, in flow order, towards Azeem
Oofhawn, whofe terrified troops began to fall back from around
him. The mifconduffed, but truly brave prince, when he faw
his fortune thus unfavourable, though he might have faved himfelf
by mounting a horfe and flying from the field, yet fcorned to owe
his fecurity to diffionour, and would not move from his elephant,
but advanced almofl: alone towards Jehaun Shaw. This adtion,
and fubmitting to be facrificed, was one and the fame. His ele-
phant driver was killed in the inftant, and the few till then remain-
ing friends to his perfon deferted him to a man. He received many
wounds from arrows and fhot, fo that he foon funk down fainting
upon his feat 3 while his elephant, without a driver, and furious
with pain, ran through the enemy, who purfued him in vain for
fome hours, and during that time the unfortunate prince died of
fatigue and lofs of blood Sultaun Mahummud Kerreem, his
fon, in the height of the confufion, threw himfelf without hurt
from his elephant, and mounting a horfe brought him by an at-
tendant, efcaped from the field of battle 3 but only to fuffer, fhortly
after, a worfe fate than dying in afrion.

* Ameen adDienjSumbullee fays, his elephant rulhed with him into the Rawee, and
was drowned.

MOGUL EMPIRE.

It happened that, at the beginning of the adtion, the three princes
were drawn up nearly oppofite that part of the camp where I
unfortunately had placed my family in a wretched fquare, to which
the enemy advanced ftill nearer, as the battle raged, and our troops
began to fly. Mahabut Khan, Hummeed ad Dien, and other
lords, had in the beginning fent their families acrofs the river to
places of fafety, which precaution I was prevented from ufing, by
being attendant on Azeem Oofhawn’s perfon in the line. The
river was about a rocket’s flight from the fquare inclofure, and
upon the rout of our line, Khan Zummaun, my friend, advifed
me, while the enemy’s troops were yet employed in fight, to con-
duct my women out of danger to the other fide j at the fame time
offering me a boat he had ready for his own fecurity againft purfuit,
and a guard of one hundred and fifty perfons, his own followers.
Accordingly I placed my wife and daughter in two covered palle-
kees, with a fum fomewhat exceeding 1 four thoufand gold mhors,
a calket of jewels, betel plate of gold fet with jewels, and other
very valuable ornaments belonging to my daughter, defigned for
her marriage portion, leaving clothes and every thing elle to chance.
As Providence decreed it, the women’s pallekees had juft arrived at
a narrow inlet of water, about an arrow’s flight from the river,
when Azeem Oofhawn’s elephant, and Mahummud Kerreem’s,
were running towards it, purfued by the enemy. I was advanced
a little in front to prepare the boat, when fuddenly one of my at-
tendants cried out, “ Where are you going ? Your honour is
“ ruined!” I looked behind me, and flaw the enemy near my
women ; upon which, in a ftate of furious defpair, I haftened back
with my grandfon Meer Einaiut Oolla, as Khan Zummaun’s people
could not reach me in time for my aftiftance. We two had juft
joined the women, when the rapacious Moguls had begun to

About fix thoufend pounds fterling, reckoning the mhor at fifteen Sicca rupees.

2 plunder $

MEMOIRS OF THE

plunder j upon which I leaped from my horfe, and feizing my wife
and daughter by each a hand, rufhed with them into the rivulet up
to their waifts, and covered the reft of their perfons with a cloth,
drawing my Iword to defend them with my life from further infult :
and, luckily for my honour, their faces were not feen by the eyes
of a ftranger. The Moguls, more attentive to gain than fhedding
of blood, after plundering the pallekees and other carriages of
every thing, even to the coarfeft outer coverings, rode off in fearch
of other prey, without attacking me or my attendants, who were hid
in different bullies and hollows. It was during this confulion, that
I faw the prince Mahummud Kerreem jump from his elephant,
mount a fervant’s horfe, and efcape. When the alarm was over,
and friends and enemies had paffed by, I was joined by my fervants
from their various fhelters, and, having replaced my women in
the pallekees, returned to my late miferable dwelling, which had
been alfo plundered, even to foot-cloths and carpets. No pillows
or feats were left us but the bare ground, and no apparel but that
drenched in water on our backs ; neverthelefs, I gave grateful thanks
to the Almighty for the prefervation of my life and honour, with
a fincere fervor. With the approach of night the confufion flack-
ened, and about nine o’clock all was over, and quiet reftored. I
then faid to myfelf, “ What is gone, is gone !” and, with a calm
mind, recited one hundred and twenty verfes of the 1 Mefnavi, be-
fides an ode applicable to the prefent ftate of affairs.

The prince Jehaun Shaw, who had taken poffeftion of the camp
of the vanquifhed, in the morning fent covered carriages and other
neceffaries to me, with a gracious meffage, defiring that I would
come, and pitch my tents near his own. I went accordingly, and
was introduced to him. He was fitting alone, under a canopy,

* The Mefnavi is a colle&ion of moral poems, by Molewee Jellal ad Dien Roomi.

near

MOGUL EMPIRE.

near his private apartments. When he faw me, he exclaimed, in
a joyful voice, “ Come, 1 Azim Khan, for thy arrival is at a happy
“ feafon ! I was anxious to fee thee.” He then took off the khe-
laut, which he had put on juft before, and gave it to me, with the
munfub of 1 fix thoufand, faying, £C I have left one degree of rank
“ to confer upon you on the day of my accefiion to a throne.”
After which he difmifled me in a gracious manner, and I took up
my ftation near that of 3 Lutfoolla Khan Saduk, his firft minifter.

Jehaun Shaw, who had gained the victory over Azeem Oofhawn,
judging, from the purity of his own intentions, that thofe of his
two brothers and the ameer al amra were equally juft towards him,
though fortune had placed all the treafures of the vanquiftied in his
power, fcorned to ufe this advantage, contrary to his oath of al-
liance. He fent the body of Azeem Oofhawn to Moiz ad Dien ;
and, when all the plunder of his camp was collected, delivered the
whole without delay into the hands of the ameer al amra, who,
agreeable to treaty and his own oaths, was to make an impartial
divifion of the provinces and treafures between the brothers. This
ftridtnefs to his word was the caufe of his ruin. The ameer al amra
had privately refolved to feat Moiz ad Dien on the throne without
a rival, as he was a weak prince, fond of his pleafures, averfe from
bufinefs, and confequently beft fuited to the purpofe of a minifter
ambitious of uncontrouled power. With this view, he, on various
pretences, delayed making a divifion of the treafure, knowing that
the troops of Jehaun Shaw and Ruffeh Oofhawn were already mu-
tinoufly clamorous for the payment of their long arrears, and much

* Anglice, Noble lord j the title which Azeem Oofhawn had offered to confer oo
him.

1 Seven thoufand was properly the higheft rank of nobility. In the decline of the
empire, rank of eight and ten thoufand was conferred on powerful minifters.

3 Anglice, God’s mercy. Saduk, Anglice True, was his family name.

L difgufted

MEMOIRS OF THE

difgufted at being deprived of the great plunder they had expected
from the camp of Azeem Oofhawn, which had been feized from
their grafp by the flridt difcipline and honour of Jehaun Shaw.
The ameer al amra, with feeming attachment, vifited the princes
as ufual, and three days paffed over without their exprefling diftruft
at his delay ; but their friends clearly faw his defigns, and warned
Jehaun Shaw againft his treachery offering to prevent their com-
pletion, by putting him to death, when he fhould come next to
pay his refpedts. The honourable and noble-minded prince refufed
his affent to fuch propofals, faying, “ I cannot confent to fuch
“ difhanourable and perfidious dealing, for which I fhould become
“ heinoufly guilty in the eyes of God, and amongft men marked
“ as a traitor and abufer of power. If empire is decreed me, I
“ fhall attain it without trouble j but, if not, of what avail is
“ treachery, or unjufl fhedding of human blood?” At his next
vifit, he openly told the ameer al amra the fufpicions entertained of
his conduct, faying, “ Even now, perhaps, thy family is dreading
** that I may be putting thee to death j which, however politic, I
“ fcorn to do by fraud. Rife then, and go in peace to thine own
“ houfe.” The ameer al amra departed with a fpeed and precipi-
tation declaring his guilt. The veil, with which he had covered
his defigns, became no longer of ufe j but, inflead of feeling gra-
titude to Jehaun Shaw for fuffering him to live, his enmity in-
creafed. He now openly avowed his deftrudtion, and his intentions
to fupport Moiz ad Dien. Though Jehaun Shaw, virtuous and
religioufly faithful to his word, was generous and juft in this great
action, yet the policy of government will not admit of fuch conduct
being copied as an example of propriety. The world is deceitful,
and cannot be commanded but by deceit. The thief, who fhould
wake his fleeping prey, would only oring ruin on his own head.
Virtue and vice being diredt oppofites, cannot exift in one dwelling.
That, the foundation of which is evil, cannot be fupported but by
evil. i. When

MOGUL EMPIRE.

When the ameer al amra had openly refufed to perform his
agreement, Jehaun Shaw, furious at his behaviour, moved his
camp oppofite to the treacherous nobleman’s, and prepared to offer
battle without delay. He had juft now the faireft profpedt of
every fuccefs ; a fine army, attached to his perfon with one mind,
good artillery, and a great character among his own and the ene-
my’s troops. But — how uncertain is fortune! This night, by
permiffion of God, a fire broke out in the artillery camp : all the
rockets and ftores of ammunition were deftroyed, and our army
rendered in one inftant totally ufelefs. The merit of this important
mifchief was afterwards claimed by Rajee Khan Maneckporee, who
faid the fire was purpofely kindled by his fpies, for a large bribe.

This man was originally of low character and little efteem, but for
this fervice he was gradually raifed from a poft in the artillery, by
Moiz ad Dien, to the rank of fix thoufand. Immediately after this
dreadful accident, Rooftum Dil Khan and Mukhlis Khan haftened
to one of the Imperial powder-works, and obtained fome frefli
fupplies ; but the troops, much difpirited with their lofs, now be-
came clamorous for money, and began to defert in great numbers.

In fliort, the fpirit of the army was changed, fo that, excepting
Lutfoolla Khan, Rooftum Dil Khan, Mukhlis Khan, and a few
others who remained faithful, all the chiefs forfeited their honours,
and Jehaun Shaw, plainly perceiving the wavering of his followers,
thought it moft advifable to prevent worfe confequences, by putting
all to the hazard of an immediate engagement. The next morning
at the dawn of day, (being Monday, anno 1124,) he formed his a. 0.1712.
line, and began a cannonade, which was anfwered by the enemy,
and kept up on both fides till mid-day with equal fuccefs. At
length the fire of Jehaun Shaw began to flacken, and his troops to
feparate on various pretences, as want of water, guarding their
baggage, and the like ; fo that near half the army deferted gradu-
ally, in fpite of the prince’s repeated orders to maintain the line.

L 2 Obferving

MEMOIRS OF THE

Obfervirig this, he railed a report that the ameer al amra was killed
by a fhot, in confequerice of which the enemy were alarmed, and
that he fhould immediately charge them, in order to improve fo
favourable an event. As he founded the march of victory, his
troops believed him, and returned mod of them to their pods. He
then commanded Janee Khan, Roodum Dil Khan, and Mukhlis
Khan, to charge one flank of the enemy, and Lootfulla Khan and
others in front, he himfelf heading this lad diviflon. It was now
about four o’clock, when Jehaun Shaw, without looking behind
him to fee how he was fupported by his troops, advanced on the
enemy’s center with a furious fpeed, where the ameer al amra was
Handing with a few followers, to reconnoitre. Moiz ad Dien had
before retired to repofe in his tents. Roodum Dil Khan and other
chiefs rufhed through all oppofition to that quarter, gained the
tents, and plundered even the ladies of the haram, among whom
were many belonging to the late emperor. Moiz ad Dien, rouzed
from deep, without regarding their fafety, fled to feek his own,
undrefled as he was, with the ameer al amra, who was engaged
againfl Jehaun Shaw in unequal combat, as he had only with him
three or four hundred horfe. At this time Ruffeh Oofliawn, who
feemingly fupported Moiz ad Dien, but wras waiting for an oppor-
tunity to dedroy both him and Jehaun Shaw, appeared in the rear
of the latter with his whole force. A corps of infantry alfo now
oppofed him in front, not only dopping his charge, but confufmg
his troops; who, feeing themfelves likely to be furrounded, lod
all fpirit, and fled to a man on the right and left, leaving him ex-
pofed alone upon his elephant : and he was foon killed by a mufquet
Ihot. His fon, 1 Ferkhundeh Akhter, a prince of mod promiling
bodily and mental accomplifhments, who fat behind him, defcended
and fought with his fcymetar, till he could dand no longer, and
then fell down dead, covered with wounds. Both the bodies were

1 Anglice, Of fortunate far.

carried

MOGUL EMPIRE.

carried immediately to the ameer al amra, who ordered the march
of victory to be founded. Jehaun Shaw, heroic, juft and benevo-
lent, was all perfedt ; but ftill, as Providence oppofed his fortune,
all his plans turned out directly contrary to their propofed end,
and what feemed to promife fuccefs, became the caufe of misfortune
Men judge vainly from events, faying, if he had not done fo, thus
would or could not have happened : but, alas ! in whofe power are
events? Our faculties, our ftrength, our thoughts, our friends,
are all moved by the inftigation of Providence. Nothing can hap-
pen without a caufe, yet our ruin is often brought on by the very
caufes which had before occaftoned our fuccefs ; for God doeth that
which pleafeth him, and effefteth that which he hath defigned.

When the day of this fun of royalty had funk in the evening of
death, there now remained no other rivals than Moiz ad Dien and
Ruffeh Oofhawn. The latter had the firmeft reliance on the at-
tachment and oaths of the ameer al amra, who, during the life of
the late emperor, had been fupported by him in the ftrongeft man-
ner againft the khankhanan. He alfo had honoured him, at his
own requeft, by the appellation of uncle, and ’exchange of turbans ;
fo that he now hoped, as one fovereign feemed to be his choice,
that it might reft upon him, in preference to his elder brother.
On this account, he had refolved to wait as a fpedfator of the
ftruggle, till the fall of one of his rivals, and then to rufh upon
the lurvivor, while flufhed with vidfory, and unguarded againft a
new enemy. This defign he now communicated to his followers,
and defired them to fupport him in an immediate attack on Moiz
ad Dien; but they would not confent, either through fear or
treachery, pretending that the dawn of morning was more favour-

1 The exchange of turbans, among the orientals, is the raoft facred pledge of friend-
ftiip, and any breach of it, after fuch ceremony, regarded with horror^

able

-3 MEMOIRS OF THE

able than the prefent inftant j fo that the prince was obliged to
Hop, and wait their pleafure. He fpent the night under arms,
with fleeplefs impatience for the return of day ; but fome of his
falfe advifers communicated his plan to the ameer al amra, and
promifed to affift in the deftrudtion of their patron.

Juft as the morning was beginning to appear, Ruffeh Ooftiawn
advanced filently towards the enemy, hoping to furprize them ;
but, before he had reached their camp, the commanding officer of
his artillery, either through treachery or ignorance, fired a gun
towards the quarter of Moiz ad Dien, which roufed his fleeping
troops. The alarm was immediately founded, and the enemy’s
cannon foon began to play furioufly. Who now would ftand to
fupport Ruffeh Oofhawn ? The greateft number of his followers
fled in confufion to the right and left, while Buddukfhee, a chief
in whom he had repofed the greateft confidence, and whom he had
faved from being put to death by his father, whom he had raifed
to honours, and fupported with a liberality unbounded, having
privately agreed with the ameer al amra, ungratefully turned his
arms againft him at this inftant. The unhappy prince was in a
fhort time left alone, furrounded by his enemies on every fide ; but
truly brave and fpirited, regarding the honour and reputation of
the family of Timur, notwithftanding his delicacy and feeming
effeminate foftnefs, he threw himfelf from his elephant, and, draw-
ing the fabre of glory from the fcabbard of honour, fought flngly
on foot againft thoufands of affailants. But what could he effeft,
more than fell one life at the expence of many ? He was foon
hewed down with repeated wounds, and refigned his breath to him
who gave it. May the Almighty fhew mercy to his foul ! We are
from God, and to him we muft return.

Such courage, I muft with juftice remark, never appeared among
the defendants of Timur, as fhewn by the offspring of Aulumgeer ;

nor

MOGUL EMPIRE.

nor do the various hiftories I have read, record the like gallant op-
pofition of a prince fingly againft numbers. True valour is proved
in the extremity of danger j but it is eafy to alfume the appearance
of courage in the day of fafety.

Moiz ad Dien Jehaundar Shaw, by the affiftance of Providence
alone, now founded the march of vidtory and unrivalled empire.
He permitted the mangled bodies of his martyred and more worthy
brothers to be kept three days on the field of battle, expofed to
public view. They were afterwards conveyed to Dhely, and interred
without ceremony or pomp, in the maufoleum of the emperor
Humaioon, the general receptacle of the murdered princes of the
Imperial family. The maufoleums which they had eredted for
themfelves, near the tombs of their favourite faints, of marble,
jafper, and other rich ftones, were bellowed on the minions of
Lali Koor, a public dancer, and miltrefs to the weak Jehaundar
Shaw.

Be it known to thofe of enlightened underftandings, and to the
acquainted with the ufages of the world, that if, in the relation of
the affairs of my liege and hereditary lord, the emperor Moiz ad
Dien Jehaundar Shaw, fome obfervations and expreffions fhould
efcape my pen, contrary to refpedt, and the examples of the hillo-
riographers of princes, they will not proceed from difaffedlion or
a»prejudiced mind. I know they are improper from the pen of a
lervant, and God forgive me ! but by them I mean no difaffedlion
to his perfon, or difrefpedl to the family of Timur ; no vent of my
own fpleen $ no view to flatter a fucceflbr, by difparaging his rival,
nor malicious abufe for the negledl or difappointment I may have
fuffered during this reign. I fwear by God, and God is a facred
witnefler of oaths, that I loved him" as my fovereign ; but, as it
was incumbent on me to record the adlions of the reigning prince,
good or bad, wife or foolilh, in public and private, if they were,
r .. without

MEMOIRS OF THE

without one exception, all unworthy, what can I fay, as a ‘faithful
writer ? Let it be remembered, r that I wag nourifhed for fifty
years under the benignant fliadowof the great and glorious emperor
Aulumgeer. How fad the alteration I now beheld ! Of this man,
this wretched idiot, oppofite to him in every quality, fucceeding to
the very fame empire, fitting on the very fame throne, and the
adlions he did, what can I fay, or in what terms paint the disgraces
they fuffered by his acceflion ? — I had beheld upon the throne ah
emperor. Warmth of expreffion operates in advice: the friends to
the 1 Imaums, from the ardor of their loyalty to the houfe of Ali,
heightened their Ryle, and reprefented with all the eloquence of
zeal (for which they have been ever praifed by good men) that the
oppreffed might draw the fword againft a worthlefs tyrant. But I
only mean a warning to the family" of Timur ; for the head of
which, let his character be what it may, if I hefitate to facrifice
my life, may I be numbered with traitors, and abhorred by my
friends !

When Jehaundar Shaw, by the intrigues and fupport of the
ameer al amra Zoolfeccar -Khan, had triumphed over his three
brothers, and afcended the throne of empire without the fear or
dread of a competitor, all the cuftoms of time were changed. He
was in himfelf a weak man, effeminately careful of his perfon, fond
of eafe, indolent, and totally ignorant of the arts of government.’
He had alfo blemifhes and low vices unworthy of royalty, and un-
known among his illuftrious anceftors. He made the vaft empire
of Hindoffan an offering to the foolifh whims of a public courtezan,
which tortured the minds of worthy fubje£ts loyal to his family.
The relations, friends and minions of the miftrefs, ufurped abfolute

* The two chief Imaums Were the fons of Ali, by the daughter of Mahummud,
and were put to death by the caliph Maweeah, one by poifon, and the other in battle,
with all their children except one, from whom defcended the other ten Imaums, and
* the race of Syeds, fo highly, refpedied among the Mahummedans.

' ... authority

MOGUL EMPIRE.

8 1

authority in the Rate; and high offices, great titles, and unrea (on-
able grants from the Imperial domains, were fhowered profufely
on beggarly muficians. ‘Two corores of rupees annually were
fettled for the houfhold expences of the miftrefs only, exclufive of
her cloaths and jewels. The emperor frequently rode with her in
a chariot through the markets, where they purchafed, agreeable to
whim, fometimes jewels, gold, filks, and fine linen ; at others,
greens, fruits, and the mold trifling articles. A woman named
aZohera, keeper of a green-flail, one of Lall Koor’s particular
friends, was promoted to a high rank, with a fuitable jaghire, and

‘ About two millions fterling.

a The celebrated Nizam al Mulluk, who at this time lived a very retired life at
Dhely, was one day paffing in a pallekee, with only a few attendants, when, in a
narrow ftreet, he was met by Zohera, who was riding on an elephant, with a great
train of fervants. The nizam endeavoured to get out of the way ; but, notwithftand-
ing this, Zohera’s fervants were infolent to his attendants, and, as fhe paffed by, fhe
exclaimed, “ Are you the fon of the blind man?” This enraged the nizam, who
commanded his people to pull her from her elephant; which they did, with rudenefs.
She complained to the miftrefs, who prevailed on the weak Jehaundar to take notice
of it, and command Zoolfeccar Khan to punifh the nizam. The nizam had fufpe&ed
this to happen, and had informed the minifter of the affair. When Jehaundar Shaw
fpoke to him, he was anfwered, that, to punifn the nizam for having corrected an
infolent upftart, would enrage all the nobility, who would confider the honour of the
order as hurt by any affront to the nizam. Jehaundar, upon this, did not enforce his
commands.

Upon Jehaundar Shaw’s promoting one of his miftrefs’s relations, a mufician, to a
high rank, ZoolfeccarKhan, ameer al amra, out of fneer, demanded of the new-made
lord, as a fee for putting his feal of office to the patent, one thoufand fmall tabors.
The mufician complained to Lall Koor, his patronefs, of the indignity offered him ;
and fhe told the emperor, infffting that he fhould reprimand the ameer al amra. Je-
haundar Shaw accordingly reproached the minifter, who ironically replied, that, as
muftc was the beft recommendation with his majefty for promotion, he had aftced the
tabors to deliver out to perfons of family, that they might, by pradtifing upon them,
•qualify themfelves for high office, and fucceed as well as their inferiors, the muficians.
Jehaundar Shaw felt the force of the fat ire, and, being afraid of his minifter, withdrew
the patent.

her

8 2

MEMOIRS OF THE

her relations exalted to the emperor’s favour, which they ufed to
promote the interefts of the courtiers, for large bribes : nor did the
nobility decline their patronage, but forgetting their honour, and
facrificing decency to the prefent advantage, eagerly flocked to pay
adoration to the royal idols, whofe gates were more crowded with
equipages in general than thofe of the Imperial palace, fo that to
pafs through the ftreet where they refided was a matter of difficulty,
by reafon of the throng. To do them juftice, many of them had
generous minds, and performed various good actions in the ufe of
their influence at court. The ridiculous jaunts of the emperor and
his miftrefs at laft grew to fuch a pitch, that on a certain night,
after fpending the day in debauchery, and viff ting different gardens
near the city, in company with Zohera the herb-woman, they re-
tired to the houfe of one of her acquaintance who fold fpirits, with
which they all became intoxicated. After rewarding the woman
with a large fum, and the grant of a village, they returned in a
drunken plight to the palace, and all three fell afleep on the road.
On their arrival, Lall Koor was taken out by her women; but the
emperor remained fleeping in the chariot, and the driver, who had
fhared in the jollity of his royal maffer, without examining the
machine, carried it to the ffables. The officers of the palace, after
waiting till near morning for his arrival, on finding that the
miftrefs had entered her apartments without the emperor, were
alarmed for his fafety, and fent to her to enquire concerning his
iituation. She aefired them immediately to examine the coach,
where they found the wretched prince faft afleep in the arms of
Zohera, at the diftance of nearly tw^o miles from the palace. This
fcandalous event afforded matter of offence to all good fubjedts,
but of mirth and laughter to the weak Jehaundar and his abandoned
favourites. He after this ftill more expofed his vices to the public,
often, as he palled through the ftreets, feizing the wives and daugh-
ters of the lower tradefinen. Once a week, according to the vulgar

fuperftition.

MOGUL EMPIRE.

fuperftition, he bathed with Lall Koor, concealed only by a fingle
cloth, in the fountain of the 1 Lamp of Dhely, in hopes that this
ceremony would promote pregnancy. Happy was the day in which
he was bathed in his own blood ! The mill refs had the infolence
to abufe the princefs 1 Zebe al Niffa, daughter of the emperor
Aulumgeer, and aunt to Jehaundar Shaw, with expreflions fo vile
as were unbecoming the meaneft perfon. This princefs had ne*
gletted to pay compliments to her, which Hie received from other
ladies of rank, and Lall Koor, enraged at this, teized the emperor
to reprove his aunt, and oblige her to fhew attention towards her ;
but all was vain. However, he fo far complied with her unrea-
fonable entreaties, that he left off vifiting the princefs, and declined
going to an entertainment fhe had prepared for 'him, without in-
viting Lall Koor. How fhall I relate all his follies ? The above-
mentioned are fufficient to fhew the fad changes of affairs, public
and private. His other indecencies are too unworthy of record to
relate.

The ameer al amra, Zoolfeccar Khan, feater, nay even creator
of emperors, with fuch an image of humanity in his hands, be-
came abfolute, and fo proud, that 3 Pharaoh and Shudad could not
have obtained admiflion to his threfhold. He fludied to ruin
the mod ancient families, inventing pretences to put them to death,
or difgrace them, that he might plunder their poffeflions. Unhappy
was the perfon he fufpe£ted to be rich, as wealth and vexatious
accufations always accompanied each other. He eftablifhed fuch
exaflions and abufes as no prior age had beheld, and by which now
he is alone remembered. He took enormous emoluments and re-
venues for himfelf, while he difpofed of money to others with a

* A celebrated fakeer fo entitled.

a Anglice, Ornament of the fex.

3 Pharaoh, and a king of Yeraraum, or Arabia Felix,

M 2

hand

MEMOIRS OF THE

hand fo fparing, that even, his own creatures felt fevere poverty
with empty titles, for he never allowed jaghires to any. The
minds of high and low, rich and poor, near or diflant, friends or
Grangers, were turned againfl him, and wifhed his delfrudtion.
Hindoos and Muffulmans agreed in praying to Heaven for the fall
of his power, night and day. Often does the midnight figh of the
widow ruin the riches of an hundred years.

Kokultafh Khan, fofter- brother to the emperor, and brought up
with him from his childhood, was honoured with the title of Khan
Jehaun. His wife, daughter, and whole family, alfo poflefTed great
influence with the emperor, and claimed from him performance of
a promife he had made to them of the viz u rut. At the fame time,
they and their adherents combined to work the overthrow of the
ameer al amra. With this view, all their relations and dependants
were raifed to high rank ; and a great number of the nobility, dif-
trelTed by the pride and rapacity of Zoolfeccar Khan, joined their
party. They infinuated to the emperor, that the ameer al amra
entertained defigns too ambitious for a fubjedt, to attain which he
would dare to filed the blood of princes ; that he had already deter-
mined on a revolution, and either to feize the throne for himfelf,
or, if he found that too dangerous, to bellow it on 1 Ali Tibbar,
or another of the confined princes, more favourable to his will
than his majefty.

The weak Jehaundar, unendowed with the leaft judgment or cou-
rage, was alarmed almoft to madnefs with the frightful pidlure of
his own fituation ; but he had not firmnefs to oppofe the dreaded
evils, nor fenfe to keep his fears fecret. The intrigues of Kokul-
tafh Khan foon became evident to the whole court, and only ferved
to awaken the vigilance of the ameer al amra, who took meafures

* The only furviving fon of Azlm Shaw, Ion of the emperor Aurungzefte.

' ' for

MOGUL EMPIRE.

for his own fafety, by removing his enemies. Rooftum Dil Khan,
Mukhlis Khan, and fome others, were put to death, and a great
number of the nobility laid under confinement on various pretences.
The family of the late 1 khankhanan was reduced fo low as to want
the common neceffaries of life. In fhort, the difpofition of the
ameer al amra* changed altogether from gentlenefs to the highefl
pitch of tyranny, fo that he now punifhed with cruelty the perfons
who had years before knowingly, or otherwife, given him the
flighted: caufes of offence. I, who had differed with him in opi-
nions during the life of Bedar Bukht, and frequently warned the
late emperor againft his afpiring views, had alfo been the friend
and confidant of his mortal enemy the khankhanan, and of a diffe-
rent party in the late ftruggle, had not a hope of efcaping from his
hands, or thofe of Jehaundar Shaw, who had commanded me to
be fearched for, and put to death. Thinking it in vain to attempt
concealment in Lahore, I had written the following verfes, and
fent them to him by my grandfon, Meer Einaiut Oolla, who was
much in his favour.

“ My anceflors were attached to “Ali without views of gain. I
“ am of the family of Ali ; thou art the 3Zoolfeccar of 4Hyder.
“ Remember, I have no chief but thee. I repent of my faults in
“ fome degree, and am come afhamed to thy tribunal. Though I
‘c am meaner than words can exprefs, yet I am of the s family of
“ which thou art head. Thou art now the guardian of our ho-
ec nour: look not at me, but upon our mutual anceflors.”

1 The celebrated Monauim Khan.

* The fon-in-law of Mohammud. Here it means Azeem al Shawn.

3 A two-bladed fword of Ali’s.

4 A title given to Ali.

5 A fyed, or defendant from the prophet’s daughter Fatima, by Ali.

'86

MEMOIRS OF THE

At firfi he did not trouble himfelf to open the paper, upon which
I Tent a fecond time, when he perufed it with attention, and defired
the meflenger to call me to him ; but I did not comply with his
invitation, to which I anfwered, that he had prevailed with pro-
mifes of fafety on many to vifit him, and afterwards confined or
put them to death ; that if luch was his defign towards me, there
was no occafion to ule art, as I would of my own accord put on
my fhroud, and come prepared for the word: before him. To this
he anfwered, by folemn oaths, that he meant no injury towards
me ; fo that I was fatisfied, and went to vifit him without dread.
He received me in his private apartment, to which I was admitted
armed, as ufual, and he rofe from his mufnud to falute me, be-
having every way with much kindnefs, and more than I expeCted ;
after which he difinifled me, with affurances of protection. He
the fame day a Iked the emperor’s pardon for me, which was imme-
diately paffed ; but his majefiy obferved, that though he forgave,
he would not on any account employ me in his fervice. The
ameer al amra too made me promile, that I would not accept of
any office in the Rate, otherwife than through his patronage. I
complied with his defire without regret, as, independent of the
obligations I owed to him, there was no temptation left to court
employment in a Rate which had in faCt no head ; for the miniRry
was a collection of petty tyrants, and abufers of power.

During the nine months in which Jehaundar Shaw, like an
embryo, lay in the womb of empire, I did not attempt to’ procure
an office, but lived in perfect retirement, except that I now and
then unavoidably paid a vifit to the ameer al amra, who would fre-
quently alk my advice in public affairs, which I gave him to the
extent of my unaerfianding.

In the height of this power and authority, (while the claim of
J am, and no one elfei was gaining Rrength,) all at once a report was

2 heard

MOGUL EMPIRE.

heard that the prince Ferokhfere, Ton to the martyred Azeem
Oodiawn, had marched from Bengal towards Bahar, intending to
revenge his father’s death, and feize the throne. Jehaundar Shaw
and the ameer al amra, though they feigned to difbelieve the intel-
ligence, and defpife the attempt, yet in their hearts were (truck
with dread. Great numbers of the Imperial fervants wilhed fecretly
for the fuccefs of the rebellion. While the ameer al amra was for-
tunate, he faw affairs in a proper light : while at Lahore, he had
repeatedly advifed Jehaundar Shaw not to remain more than a week
in Dhely, but to proceed to Agra, and, if neceffary, to the eaftern
provinces, as the dread of his power would not be impreffed fully
in the breads of his fubjefts, while Ferokhfere refufed to pay alle-
giance. Jehaundar Shaw, on his arrival at Dhely, fafcinated by
the various luxuries it afforded, forgot the advice of his minider,
and chofe to remain, indulging himfelf in low pleafures, moving
only from palace to palace, and garden to garden. Kokultafh Khan
and his party perfuaded him that the ameer al amra had excited
this rebellion, and engaged privately with Ferokhfere, to whom he
would deliver his majedy a prifoner, fhould he prevail on him to
march from the capital. Thefe ideas ferved to increafe the fears of
the weak Jehaundar Shaw. He would often exclaim, “ I did not
“ kill Azeem Oodiawn : it was the ameer al amra, who mud now
“ go and anfwer the claims of his fon, for fatisfadtion. What
“ have I to do with the bufinefs ?” The other plans of an em-
peror, who was thus overcome by fear, may eafily be gueffed, and
need no explanation. The ameer al amra, offended at the didruds
of his mader, did not attend as he ought to bufinefs, but employed
his time alfo in pleafure, and forwarding his own immediate in-
tered.

Syed Abdoolla Khan Bareah, and'his brother Houffein AliKhan,
had .gained great honour by their behaviour in the fervice of Azim

Shaw,

MEMOIRS OF THE

Shaw, after whofe death they had attached themfelves to Azeem
Oofhawn, by whom they were honoured, the former with the
government. of Allahabad, and the latter of the province of Bahar.
During the late contefts for the empire, they had, for their own
fafety and that of the country, expended, without orders, confi-
derable fums of the Imperial revenues in the maintenance of extra-
ordinary troops, which had offended Jehaundar Shaw. On his
acceffion to the throne, he appointed Rajee Khan Maneckporee to
the government of Allahabad, who fent one of his relations, with
a confiderable force, to take poffeffion ; but he was oppofed, de-
feated, and driven back by Abdoolla Khan. Ferokhfere’s rebellion
julf then arifing, the ameer al amra thought it advifable to difpatch
an Imperial firmaun, approving Abdoolla Khan’s conduct, and
confirming him in his government, declaiming alfo any affent to
the attempts to remove him. Abdoolla Khan pretended gratitude
and obedience for the royal favours, in order to avoid farther
trouble from the court, but which he had refolved to ferve no
longer than he found neceffary. When Ferokhfere arrived in Bahar,
he was immediately joined by Syed Houffein Ali Khan, who was
faithfully attached to him, as the fon of his patron Azeem Oofhawn.
The court of Dhely weakly imagined, that Abdoolla Khan would
flop the progrefs of the prince at Allahabad. Firmauns of encou-
ragement, and great promifes, were difpatched to purchafe his
loyalty, inftead of armies to fecure it. While the rebellion was
daily gathering force, the emperor’s minifters, divided againft each
other, were undetermined how to a 61. Kokultafh Khan refufed to
take the command of an army, if the ameer al amra remained at
Dhely, pretending that the emperor was not fafe in his hands'; and
the latter did not think it proper to quit the court, where, in his
abfence, fuch a dangerous rival muff poflefs the whole power.
Jehaundar Shaw did not dare to think, much lefs to fix, whom he
ihoukl entruft with the command of the army ; for fo great was

his

MOGUL EMPIRE.

his fear, that one day, when the daughter of Kokultafh Khan,

prefuming on her familiarity, infilled that her father fhould be

declared vizier, and the ameer al amra be fent from Dhely, he
*

replied with terror, “ Hold your peace, or 1 he will put us all to
“ death in an inflant.”

At laft it was refolved that 1 Aiz ad Dien, eldeft fon of Jehaundar
Shaw, fhould march at the head of an army againft the rebels,
under the tutelage of Khaja Houffein, Khan Downan, fon-in-law
to Kokultafh Khan, a weak man, who never, unlefs in dreams,
had feen a fhot fired. The troops who marched with him did not
amount to fix thoufand, though there were among the officers
many ameers of the higheft rank. On his arrival at Agra, he was
joined by Iauts, Rajapootes, and great numbers of other rabble;
alfo many Fojedaurs, who covered ground, but were no better
than droves of cattle to devour provifions ; however, he had with
him a fine train of artillery. From Agra, Aiz ad Dien marched
without delay to 3 Eta wa, and from thence to4Cudjwa, where
Ferokhfere had arrived with the two Syeds, and near feventy thou-
fand horfe and foot, moftly adventurers, who ferved from the hope
of benefiting themfelves by a revolution.

The two camps being thus near, on the 29th of Showal, early
in the morning, Syed Abdoolla Khan and others advanced to re-
connoitre the enemy’s pofition. This brought on a fkirmifh, and
afterwards a cannonade on both Tides, which continued till night,
without much execution 3 but Khan Dowran, a perfect flranger to

1 Meaning the ameer al amra.

4 Elder brother of the late, and uncle to the prefent emperor.

3 A large town on the Jumna, thirty cofs to the eaftward of Agra.

4 A confiderable town in file diftridt of Kora, where Aurungzebe and Sultan Shujah
formerly engaged.

war.

9°

MEMOIRS OF THE

war, was much alarmed at the dangers of his new profellion. He
thought he ffhould do the Rate moft fervice by faving the prince
from (as he conceived) inevitable deftru&ion. Accordingly, un-
known to his officers, about midnight he fled with him in a wo-
man’s covered pallekee, (topping not till he arrived at Agra, from
whence he difpatched to court accounts of his gallant fervice, and
zealous care of the heir-apparent. The officers of his army, in
the morning, finding their chief had fled, laid afide all thoughts of
refiftance, and each provided for his own fafety. Mod went over
to the fervice of Ferokhfere, and the remainder returned precipi-
tately towards Agra. Syed Abdoolla Khan would not allow them
to be purfued, and, what has often perplexed my underftanding to
account for, advifed Ferokhfere to halt fome time in the camp of
the fugitives, inflead of following his fuccefs with rapidity. The
news of the defeat reaching Dhely, threw the court into fuch con-
fufion, that no other plan was at firfl: refolved on, than to wait the
enemy’s approach in the vicinity of the city, and hazard all in one
engagement, as it was expeded time would not allow of more
diftant operations. Accordingly, Rajee Khan was ordered with the
Imperial artillery to 1 Feridabad, where ground was chofen for the
general camp, and preparations made for the emperor’s march.

As foon as it became known that Ferokhfere had not advanced
beyond the. field of battle, Jehaundar Shaw altered his refolution
of remaining at Dhely, and began his march towards Agra. On
his arrival there, the ameer al amra opened the royal treafures,
which had been for ages laid up, difpofing of money, jewels, plate,
and valuable effeds, to the amount of two corores of rupees, among
the troops, who now were feventy thoufand horfe, and foot without
number. Mod of them too were veteran foldiers, but little affeded

* About three cofs from the city.

MOGUL EMPIRE.

to the royal caufe, as they had experienced flights in the days of
peace, and knew this profufe bounty to proceed only from the
neceffity of the times. The Imperial army encamped at firft near
the gardens of Dehera ; but, upon intelligence arriving that
Ferokhfere had advanced to Eatimadpore, near the river, intending
to crofs, it was thought advifable to move along the oppofite bank
to prevent him. Both armies remained a week thus, in fight of
each other; and people of judgment decided, in their own minds,
that vidlory would be to that prince who fhould firft crofs and
attack his rival.

On the night of the 13th of Zeekaud, intelligence was received a.h. 1124.
that the Syeds had, by a countermarch of twenty miles, gained the ‘ I;i "
ford of Gaow Ghaut, and eroded the river with their advanced
corps and all the artillery; alfo that Ferokhfere, with his whole
army, intended to follow the next day. I was prefent when this
news was brought to the ameer al amra, who, on hearing it, was
vifibly affedted and alarmed, as were all the nobility then prefent in
his train. Orders of march were iffued for the next morning, to
meet the enemy, whofe camp was, by the late manoeuvre, removed
ten cofs diftant. Jehaundar Shaw moved accordingly, but halted
before he had fight of the enemy, encamping on the broken ground
and hollow ways on the banks of the Jumna. This difpirited the
troops, who judged that their generals had chofen a ftrong pofition,
more from fear of a fudden attack, than proper caution and judg-
ment of the ground. The next morning, however, the Imperial
army continued the march to Secundra, and the day after to Gaow
Ghaut, where the enemy’s troops were hill crofling, and Ferokhfere
had not as yet come to this fide. The ameer al amra, with a
number of nobility, advanced in front to reconnoitre the pofition of
the enemy, as did alfo the emperor, when he arrived with the main
army. The Syeds, notwithftanding their inferior force, drew up

N 2 to

MEMOIRS OF THE

to receive them, but the ameer al amra chofe to defer taking advan-
tage of his prefent fituation, as it was now late in the afternoon,
and the fall of night, during an adlion, would create much confu-
fion and diforder. With this idea, he chofe to encamp on the banks
of a rivulet which ran between him and the enemy.

Early in the morning of the next day, which began with heavy
clouds and rain, I went to vifit the ameer al amra, who was juft
come from the emperor’s tents, and preparing to take fome refrefh-
ment ; upon which, I afked my difmiffion, and returned to my
own tents, intending to fleep. By this time the clouds had dif-
perfed, and the fun fhone very bright. A little after mid-day, I
was alarmed by the drums beating to arms, and a confufed noife,
when running to my door, I faw the ameer al amra mounting his
elephant with great hafte, and undreffed ; upon which I got ready
my attendants, about forty perfons, and followed him with all
poffible fpeed. Upon my arrival, he was handing upon elevated
ground, looking round him. I afked what had caufed the alarm,
when he replied, that the enemy were drawing out their line, feem-
ingly with intentions to cannonade. Our troops now haftened to
form, the ameer al amra in front, and upon his right Kokultafh
Khan. In the center hood the emperor, Jehaundar Shaw, attended
by Rajee Khan, with the royal artillery. To the left were the
troops of Mortuzza Khan Bukfhi, and many other amras. The
enemy’s army advanced flowly till within reach of cannon -fliot,
when they played upon us with their artillery and rockets, which
were anfwered with great fury by Rajee Khan. Every one knows
that, after an engagement is once begun, it is impoflible for a
Engle perfon to fee more of the operations than thofe on the im-
mediate fpot of his own poft s how then can I fay, I diftindlly
viewed every change of two lines covering ground of miles in ex-
tent ? An author once read to Aurungzebe a long account of one

MOGUL EMPIRE.

of his battles with Dara Shekkoh. The emperor obferved at the
conclufion, that he muft certainly have been upon a high moun-
tain during the engagement, which he had feen fo minutely, as he
himfelf, though commanding the line, and mounted on an elephant,
did not perceive one-third of the particulars he had defcribed. In
fhort, I fhall only relate what I law. After a cannonade of fome
time, I faw two bodies from the enemy’s line charge our’s, one
with a red, and the other with a green ftandard. The former was
the corps of Raja Jubbeeleh Ram, and the latter of Syed Houffein
Ali Khan. Obferving that our right flank was much expofed, I
remarked it to the ameer al amra, who immediately difpatched
orders for Abdul Summud Khan to move with the miftrefs’s troops
to that quarter. The firft body of the enemy charged diredlly on
Kokultafh Khan, and the other pufhing through the line of our
artillery, which w^as defected as it approached, attacked the center,
in which was Jehaundar Shaw. Our troops fell back upon the
camp, and great confufion took place, as the men, elephants and
horfes, became entangled among the ropes of tents, carriages and
baggage. Numbers fled, but the ameer al amra remained firm,
and the enemy was kept long at a ftand by his gallantry and fteadi-
nefs ; but he was ill-fupported, though Syed Houffein Ali Khan
fell wounded in the field, and Jubbeeleh Ram wras not more fuc-
cefstul in his charge on Kokultafh Khan. It was now about five
o’clock, when affairs were thus doubtful ; but juft then Syed
Abdoolla Khan, with a great body, charged Jehaundar Shaw, who
flood with his troops, already alarmed, fome diftance in the rear
of the ameer al amra. They fcarce waited to be attacked, but
broke their line, and fled in confufion on all Tides, while the wo-
men’s elephants, thole of the jewel office and treafury, ran here
and there, carrying diforder along with them. Jehaundar Shaw
haftily joined the corps of Kokultafh Khan, and was purfued by
the enemy, who thus forced him between two fires, Ferokhfere

having

MEMOIRS OF THE

having now come to the afliftance of Jubbeeleh Ram, who had re-
newed the attack in front. Kokultafh. Khan was killed after a
lhort ftruggle, his troops difperfed, and Jehaundar Shaw difap-
peared from his elephant. This made the rout general, and only
the ameer al amra kept his ground. When he could hear no tidings
of the emperor, and it became dark, he retired flowly to Shaw
Gunge, near the city, where he remained till midnight, difpatching
meffengers on all fides in fearch of his fovereign, with the hopes,
if he could be found, of rallying the troops, and making one more
effort the next day ; but all in vain. Jehaundar Shaw could not be
found ; upon which he thought proper to provide for his own
fafety, and marched away towards Dhely. Thus, in the fpace of
a few hours, was this government destroyed, and another pofTeffed
of abfolute authority. The robe of empire graced the auguft per-
fon of Ferekhfere, who founded the joyful march of triumph.

Though I was not in the fervice of any one, and had no enmity
•to either party, yet I remained in the field till the ameer al amra had
retired, when thinking it beft to provide for my own fafety, I
entered the city with about a hundred perfons who fought my pro-
tection, and retired to one of my own gardens, where I enjoyed
perfect repofe from my fatigues. In the morning, I wrote to Syed
Abdoolla Khan, with whom I was formerly on terms of friendfhip,
exprefling my defire of leave to vifit him, and be introduced to the
new emperor. He replied to my letter with much kindnefs, and I
paid my compliments to him as he paffed by my dwelling the fol-
lowing day, when he carried me with him to his own houfe. The
emperor Ferokhfere entered the city the next morning, to pray in
public at the tomb of Akber, on his return from whence I was
allowed to pay him my refpedfs. Syed Abdoolla Khan marched
towards Dhely the day after, and chofe to take me with him,
which I did not think proper to decline. As yet, it was not cer-
tainly

MOGUL EMPIRE.

tainly known to what quarter Jehaundar Shaw and the ameer al
amra had fled. AfTud ad Dowlah, father to the latter, was in the
command of Dhely, and had in his power the confined princes.
It was apprehended that the ameer al amra would retreat to Dekkan.
with his mafter, but he not finding that prince, thought proper to
go to Dhely. Jehaundar Shaw, who had fhaved his beard and
whifkers to prevent being known, arrived a fhort time before the
ameer al amra, at the palace of AiTud ad Dowlah. This was foon
known throughout the city j upon which the friends to the family
of Azeem Oolhawn furrounded the houfe, and demanded the deli-
very of the royal fugitive into their charge. AfTud ad Dowlah was
obliged to confine him, to fupprefs their clamours. Making a virtue
of neceffity, he wrote a petition to Ferokhfere, implying, that he
had imprifoned Jehaundar in his own houfe, and waited the Imperial
orders concerning his difpofal. In return, firmauns were difpatched
applauding his condufr, forgiving all paft offences, and continuing
him in the vizarut, with Syed Abdoollah Khan as his deputy, to
whofe care Jehaundar Shaw was for the prefent to be entruffed.
All thefe gracious affurances fatisfied AfTud ad Dowlah, and had
fuch an effedt on the ameer al amra, his Ton, that he thought it
belt to remain at Dhely, and wait the emperor’s mercy, which he
hoped would fpare his forfeited life and fortune.

When Ferokhfere arrived near Dhely, he commanded AfTud ad
Dowlah and his Ton to be brought into his prefence. They were
both received with the honours due to their high rank ; after which,
the former was allowed to return in fafety to his own houfe, but
the latter was led to a private tent, and, after a few queftions had
been afked him, he was ftrangled, as a punifiiment for his crimes,
and an example to others. His body was afterwards tied with the
head downwards on an elephant, together with that of Jehaundar
Shaw, who had been put to death in prifon, and expofed in the

7 new

96 MEMOIRS OF, See.

new emperor’s train, when he made his triumphant entry to the
palace; after which, both bodies were thrown into the ftreet, before
the great mofque, and remained fome days a fpecfacle to the mob.
The eftates of the father and fon were confifcated, and their fa-
mily, which had filled for above two hundred years the higheft
offices of the Rate, was thus in an inflant levelled with the duff,
and, like that of 1 Bermekee, totally ruined. Some other traitors
were alfo punifhed with death, which impreffed the fubjed with
refped for government, and proved that however, for a time}
treafons might be attended with fuccefs, at length the profperity of
the houfe of Timur would be prevalent over all oppofition.

Such is the firfl beaming of the heaven-given fortune of his
majefty, which, by divine bleffing, is afeending to the zenith of
glory and renown. Praife be to God, by whofe favour the con-
clufion of my book is aufpicious ! and mercy upon the chofen of
mankind, Mahummud, his defendants, his friends and followers,
for evermore ! Amen.

* Known in Europe by the name of Barmecides, as mentioned in the life ofHaroon
al Rafheed, in the Hiftory of the Caliphs.

FINIS.

PART V,

CONTINUATION OF THE HISTORY

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

. i -t. J

S'.rJY. ’J >«. U

PREFACE.

AN the compilation of the following part of my work, I have
ufed chiefly the authority of Perflan manufcripts, a lift of which
is at the end of the volume ; and from much converfation
with many principal and well informed natives on the fubjed:
of their hiftory, I can aflert the received authenticity of the
fads related.

For the account of the fituation of the prefent emperor,
Shaw Aulum, from 1771 to 1779, I owe the chief materials
to my friend Lieutenant Colonel Polier, whofe long refldence
and connedions at the court of Dhely enabled him to obtain
the be ft information of public and private tranfadions.

The Perfic Journal of the cruel proceedings of the unprin-
cipled and inhuman Rhohilla chief, Gholaum Kaudir, was written
by an eye witnefs on the fcene of their perpetration, and trans-
mitted me by my brother Captain Richard Scott. In this,
and fuch other materials that would bear it, literality as much as-
Vol. II. S poflible

>3°

PREFACE,

poffible has been obferved ; but I will not pretend that the
following pages are wholly tranflations, fome anecdotes having
been inferted from oral information, alfo a few obfervations on
characters and circumftances, of my own, Thefe it is needlefs
to point out, as the variation of idiom will diftinguilh them
from the parts tranflated.

FEROKHSERE.

When the new emperor Ferokhfere had repofed a few days A. H. 1125.

from his fatigues, and order was reftored in the city of Agra, he A. D. 1713,
began his march towards Dhely, and fhortly after arrived at Khiz-
zerabad, about four miles diflant from that capital. The next
morning aAfoph ad Dowlah and his fon the ameer al amra came to
pay their refpects, and were honoured with dreffes and other marks
of the royal favour ; after which the former was difmiffed to his
own tents, but the latter commanded to wait. He accordingly re-
mained in the divan with Khaujeh Aflim. In a little time a din-
ner was brought in from the royal table for the ameer al amra,
who at firft refufed to eat, fufpe&ing poifon ; but on the khaujeh’s
offering to partake, his fears fubfided, and he agreed to dine. The
khaujeh now obferving, that it was contrary to the rules of court to
eat in the b divan, propofed moving to a c fquare of fkreens in the area

S 2 before

a In the Memoirs of Eradut Khan Ailed Afiud ad Dowlah, alfo one of his
titles.

b Hall of audience.

c Called in India kanauts. They are made of cotton cloth, fometimes flow-
ered, but generally in ftripes of red and white or blue and white, about feven feet
high, and flrengthened with the bamboo cane, fewed in at five or fix feet dis-
tance, which prevent their bellying with the wind. The tents of the great
men are always lurrounded with them, and make a beautiful appearance. The
royaL tents are encircled with fkreens nine or ten feet high, which are always
plain red, and called ferra perda.

132

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

before it, which they did ; but the ameer al amra had no fooner
entered than the opening was ffiut upon him, and Khaujeh Affirm
remained without. At the fame inftant two hundred armed men
ruffied into the court and furrounded the fquare.

Half an hour had not elapfed, when Abdoollah Khan, fuperin-
tendant of the khowaufs, or domeftic fervants, came out from the
emperor’s apartment, and entering the Ikreens, Ipoke as follows
to the ameer al amra.

“ His majefty commands you to inform him why you a con-
“ fined Kaum Bukhffi in Dekkan, and illufed his friends, contrary
“ to loyalty and refpedt to the emperor ?” The ameer al amra
unhefitatingly anfwered,

<e I confined the prince by the orders of Aulumgeer, his fovereign
“ and mine. Had he commanded me to imprifon my own father,
“ I fhould have readily complied.” Abdoollah Khan then with-
drew, but inftantly returning from the emperor, faid,

“ You were the general and chief minifter of b Azim Shaw,
“ was it adting loyally to defert him in the field, and feek your
“ own fafety by flight?” He anfwered,

“ While he was alive I kept the field, but when he was flain,
“ I dared not to oppofe a prince of the blood without a rival of
“ equal dignity at the head of our army.” Upon this, Abdoollah

• Khan

s The prince Kaum Bukhfh was confined at the fiege of Jinjee, a ftrong
fortrefs on the coaft of Coromandel, being ftrongly fufpefted of a defign of
joining the enemy and rebelling againft his father Aulumgeer, as related in his
reign.

b Vide Memoirs of Eradut Khan for this tranfa&ion. The ameer al amra
vas the principal general of Azim Shaw when defeated by his brother Shaw
Aulum.

FEROKHSERE.

J33

Khan returned, but coming back foon, faid, “ What were the cir-
“ cumftances of your conduct to the martyred prince, his majefty’s
“ father, Azeem Oofhawn ?”

The ameer al amra anfwered, “ He behaved inattentively to
“ me, and I then attached myfelf to his brother ; but in this did
{t no more than other nobles, who each embraced the caufe of the
<e prince he bell loved, and from whom he received the greateft
favours.”

Abdoollah Khan then faid, “ Why was his majefty’s beloved
<< brother inhumanly murdered in cool blood, many days after the
“ battle, when other princes were allowed to live ?” The ameer
al amra convinced, by this queftion, that no fubmiflions or en-
treaties could fpare his life, angrily exclaimed, “ If I am to die,
“ kill me inftantly, nor vex me longer with vain interrogations.”

Upon this, Lacheen Beg and other a chelas rufhing upon him, 1
threw him on the ground ; and having ftrangled him with a bow-
ftring, ftamped upon his breaft, and ftabbed him with daggers in
feveral parts of the body. When quite cold, the corpfe was drawn
out with ropes, and caft without the court of the divan, as a
fpe&acle to the populace. His effects and eftates, with thofe of his
father, were confifcated to the royal ufe.

The day fucceeding this tragedy Ferokhfere marched from
Khizzerabad, and made his public entry into Dhely with imperial

fplendour.

» Every prince of Hindooftan has a band of attendants diftinguifhed by this
appellation. They are fuppofed to be always ready to devote their lives, and
are too often employed in aflaffinations. Tippoo Saheb has a battalion of them,
among whom he has enrolled many of our unfortunate countrymen, whom he
forcibly circumcifed. They are generally captives taken in infancy, or purchafed
flaves educated under the eye of the prince. The jeoghlans in the court of
Conftantinople are of a fimilar defcription.

I34

AURUNGZEBE’s successors.

fplendour. The heads of the late emperor his uncle, Jehaundar
Shaw, and the ameer al amra, were carried on poles in the caval-
cade ; their bodies hanging feet upwards acrofs an elephant, as
marks of his triumph. The aged minister Afoph ad Dowlah was
alfo compelled to attend the proceffion, Shabbily dreffed, in a palan-
quin, and accompanied by the ladies of his family, as fpedtators of
their own difgrace. They were afterwards confined in the palace
of Khan Jehaun. Raja Soobeh Chund, dewan to the late ameer al
amra, had his tongue cut out, and his property feized. “ Be not
“ felf-fecure from the retribution of your actions, for every feed
“ fown produceth its kind.” Many nobles and dependants of the
late emperor were put to death by the bow-lfring and other punifh-
ments. Aiz ad Dien, fon of Jehaundar Shaw, Ali Tibbar, the Ion
of Azim Shaw, and Hoomaioon Bukht, younger brother to Ferokh-
fere, were deprived of fight by a red hot iron drawn over their
eyes. Owing to the unjuft Daughter and punishments inflidted on
numbers innocent of crimes, perfons of all ranks were feized with
horror. The dread of death was fo great, that many nobles pre-
vious to going to court ufed to take leave of their families, and on
their return home offer prayers and alms, as in thankfgiving for
efcape from imminent danger.

Ferokhfere had not long enjoyed the throne, when a jealoufy
arofe between him and the vizier * Koottub al Moolk, which at lafl
extended to open contention, and finally occafioned the downfall
of the empire and ruin of Hindooflan. The vizier, after the vidtory
of Agra, had been difpatched to fettle affairs at Dhely, where,
without confulting Ferokhfere, he had difpofed of two principal
offices to his friends } but the emperor on his arrival wifhed to con-
fer them on other perfons. Koottub al Moolk upon this, obferved,
that if, in the very commencement of his office, his advice Should

not

a Syed Abdoollah Khan, appointed vizier with the above title, on Ferokhfere’s
acceffion. It fignifies, The axis of the ftate.

FEROKHSERE.

135

not be followed, it would dedroy his credit as vizier ; while Meer
Jumlah, Ferokhfere’s private favourite, remarked to him, that how far
foever princes might trud fervants with power, yet they ought to
keep due deference, and not appoint to important dations without
orders from the prefence. In fhort, though this difpute ended in
the vizier’s giving up one of the offices to the emperor’s choice,
yet it left mutual hatred in their minds. But the chief caufe of
confudon in affairs, and the confequent difrepute of the vizier, his
brother the 3 ameer al amra, and all the fyeds of Bareh, was this :
Ferokhfere had none of the qualities of empire, penetration or con-
duct. He was of low mind and manners, and poffeffed only an
ill-placed liberality, bellowing extravagant favours on men without
defert and of low rank. Yet generofity is fuch a quality, that,
however profufe, it has its admirers. Perfons eager of gain will
praife it, and it leaves a good name to the poffeffor in this frail world.
Ferokhfere was therefore beloved by the common people ; but, in
fadt, he had not the lead: ability for fovereign command, or even
the lowed: office in a date.

Meer Jumlah, envious and alpiring, but void of capacity,
fought fuperiority over all the nobility ; and having fcattered to the
winds the honour and fortunes of Afoph ad Dowlah and his fon,
accumulated during a century and half, was meditating the de-
drudtion of the fyeds. He could not fee them the patrons of the
people and guiders of adminidration. Koottub al Moolk alfo, being
much addidted to women and luxury, fought for leifure, and had
entruded the reins of his authority to his dewan Ruttun Chund,
who had been purveyor to his family ; a man, rigid in his idola-
trous faith, but incapable of diredting the affairs of the vizarut,
the highed office in the empire. From thefe caufes, contentions
daily encreadng, eventually ruined the imperial authority of the

3 Syed Houffein Alee Khan, honoured by this title on Ferokhfere ’s fuccefs
near Agra,

family

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

family of Timur, which had been eftablifhed four hundred years,
and the fyeds of Bareh were abufed as traitors to future time. A
world was deflroyed by thefe enmities, and the empire of Hindoo-
flan irrecoverably difordered.

The emperor and Meer Jumlah, with their partizans, had
formed a plan for the feparation of the brothers, which was, to
difpatch one for the punifhment of a Maharaja Ajeet Sing Rhatoree,
who, fince the death of Aulumgeer, had been guilty of rebellion,
by deftroying the mofques and erecting idol temples in his zemin-
dary, and, as yet, with impunity, owing to the wars of Shaw
Aulum with his brothers, the infurredions of the fiks, and the
fucceeding broils of the imperial family, from the death of Shaw
Aulum till the prefent time. The ameer al amra, Houffein Alee
Khan, accordingly marched with a confiderable army; and Ajeet
Sing, feized with dread at his approach, having evacuated the low
lands, took refuge in the faftneffes of the mountains, with his family
and effects. Notwithflanding the hints he received from court to
oppofe the ameer al amra, he fent ambaffadors to beg quarter and
forgivenefs of his offences. As at this period the faction at court
having raifed the flames of difagreement between the emperor and
the vizier, were confpiring to imprifon him, he wrote repeated
letters to his brother, conjuring him to haflen to Dhely. The
ameer al amra therefore, being fearful of delay, received the fub-
mifiions of Ajeet Sing, obliged him to pay a large b pefhcufh, to
give a daughter in marriage to Ferokhfere, and fend his fon to court.
After concluding this treaty, he returned to the capital.

Koottub

» The. rajas of Rhatore, called alfo Marwar, were of the firft confequence in
Hindooftan; but of late their power has much decreafed, and a great part of
their territory been wrefted from them by the Mharattas.

b An offering of money, made on taking pofTeffion of an office or lands
from government, alfo as an acknowledgment of fubmiffion on receiving pardon
for Rate offences.

FEROKHSERE.

*37

Koottub al Moolk being vizier, and his brother ameer al amra,
it was difficult to exercife any ad: of government, fuch as the con-
ference of honours, lands, or appointment to offices, without their
approbation, and they wiffied nothing to be done contrary to their
pleafure. At the fame time, Meer Jumlah, the confidential minifler
of the emperor, who had publicly fignified that his promife and
fignature were the fame as his own, received applications and
granted petitions, in order to obtain popularity but Ruttun Chund,
dewan to the vizier, difpleafed at his interference, refufed obe-
dience to the royal orders through the favourite nor indeed would
he forward any perfon’s bufinels without a prefent for himfelf and
his patron. For thefe reafons he was not only hated by Ferokhfere
and Meer Jumlah, but by the people ; yet, emboldened by the
fupport of his matter, he behaved with great infolence. The bro-
thers were enraged at Meer Jumlah, who on his part reprefented
their conduct as difloyal, to the emperor, who was fo much alarm-
ed, that he wiffied to fecure their perfons by ftratagem, and often
tried to effedt it, but in vain. His plans were betrayed to the
minitters, and only added enmity to enmity and injury to injury.
It is faid, that the mother of Ferokhfere acquainted them with the
defigns of her fon, as ffie was guarantee to the treaty between
them, when the brothers had firtt embraced his caufe againfl
Jehaundar Shaw.

The ameer al amra, on his return to Dhely, requefted the
government of Dekkan, intending to leave Daood Khan Punnee as
his deputy in that country, to receive from him a certain yearly fum,
and to remain himfelf at court ; but the emperor and Meer Jumlah
wiffied him to depart. This he declined, fearful of leaving his
brother alone among enemies. The difpute on this point grew fo
high, that the brothers left off attending the court, levied troops,
and fortified themfelves in their palaces ; while Ferokhfere held
councils againfl them with Meer Jumlah, Mahummud Ameen Khan,
Vol. II. T and

AURUNGZEBE's SUCCESSORS. ,

and KhanDowraun; but from his irrefolution and cowardice, his
plans were changed day after day, and nothing was determined.
Owing to the rumours of thefe diffentions, bufinefs was at a ftand
in the capital, fo that the neceffaries of life became very dear.

When much time had paffed in this manner, and mediators
interfered, the emperor’s mother went to the houfe of Koottub al
Moolk, and fatisfied his mind, by agreeing that his troops fhould
garrifon the citadel, while he and the ameer al amra vifited her fon.
Accordingly, the brothers came to court, afked pardon for their
offences, and complained of the emperor’s fufpicions of their at-
tachment from the infinuations of intriguing perfons. Taking off
their fwords, they laid them at his feet, faying, " If we are
“ guilty, here are our heads, and there the instruments of punifh-
“ ment ; but if, from regard to our fervices, our deaths fhould
“ be uneafy to the royal mind, difplace and difmifs us from the
“ prefence, that we may gather purity in a pilgrimage to Mecca
“ and the holy tombs of our illuftrious a ancestors. If it is the royal
“ will to ufe our fervices, and keep us in the prefence, to liften
“ to the calumny of the factious, and injure and difgrace us, is
“ contrary to the practice of juft fovereigns and the rules of pru-
xt dence.” At length affairs were thus adjufted, that Meer Jum-
lah, being promoted to the foubadary of Bahar, fhould be banifhed
the prefence, and the ameer al amra march to Dekkan.

Meer Jumlah was difmiffed to his government in a few days
after the reconciliation. Nizam al Moolk was recalled from Dek-
kan, and Daood Khan ordered from Guzarat to Boorahanpore,
there to wait the commands of the ameer al amra.

After

* The grandfons of Mahummud by his daughter Fatima, the wife of Alee.

FEROKHSERE.

After thefe arrangements, the emperor, who was recovered A. H. 1127.
from a fevere * illnefs, which had hitherto prevented the celebration A. D. 1714-15.
of his marriage with the daughter of Maharaja Ajeet Sing, iffued
orders for preparations for that ceremony. The ameer al amra
condu&ed the feftivities on the part of the bride, and the marriage
was performed with a fplendour and magnificence, tiil then unfeen

T 2 among

* It was about this time that the Eaft India Company obtained their firmauti
of free trade from Ferokhfere. The embaffy fent to him had been fome time
unfuccefsfully employed, owing to the intrigues of the navob of Bengal, when
an accident occafioned a fudden and fortunate conclufion to the negotiation.

Ferokhfere was feized with a diforder which the (kill of his own phyficians
could not cure, and he was given over by them. Reduced to this extremity,
he was advifed to truft his cafe to Mr. Hamilton, the furgeon to the embafly,
who, by an operation, reftored him to health. During the operation it was
reported, that the emperor had died under the furgeon’s hands; and fo great
was the fury of the populace, that they furrounded the houfe of the embafla-
dors, threatening to deftroy them. They were only to be appealed by Ferokhfere’s
{hewing himfelf to them from a balcony of the palace, and alluring them that
he had received new life from the Ikill of Mr. Hamilton. Upon this the
Englifh became as much venerated, as they had been before defpifed. Ferokh-
fere conferred great marks of diftinbfion on Mr. Hamilton, and promifed to
grant any favour he chofe to afk. Mr. Hamilton, inftead of requeuing rewards
for himfelf, befought the grant of the Company’s requifitions ; which were in-
ftantly complied with, and the fees of office remitted. Upon the return of the
embafly, the emperor was very urgent with Mr. Hamilton to remain in his
fervice, which he declined for the prefent ; but promifed to return, when he
Ihould have fettled his affairs at Calcutta. Among the prefents made him by
Ferokhfere, were models of all his furgical inflruments of pure gold. Mr.

Hamilton, foon after his return to Bengal, died of a putrid fever ; and the
emperor, not fatisfied with the account of this event from the governor and
council, fent an officer of rank to Calcutta to examine the truth from the
natives, whofe folemn teftimony and that of the Europeans were taken to the
emperor. 1 had this anecdote from Mr. Haftings, who tells me, that at his
firft arrival in India there were living witneffes of the circumftances of it, and
Mr. Hamilton’s monument was to be feen in the burial ground of Calcutta,
upon which the account cf them was engraved. In a Life of Ferokhfere, the
circumftance of his recovery by a European furgeon is mentioned ; alfo the de-
lay of his marriage from lllnefs. The Company owe fomething to the memo-
ry of a man who fo nobly preferred their intereft to his own advantage.

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

among the princes of Hindooftan. Many pompous infignia were
added to the royal train upon this occafion. The illuminations
rivalled the planets, and feemed to upbraid the faint luftre of the
ftars. High and low fhared the feftivity, and joy thrilled through
the veins of all. The emperor came to the palace of the ameer al
amra, where the ceremony was performed ; after which, he car-
ried the princefs in the higheft fplendour of imperial pomp to the
citadel, amid the refoundings of mufical inftruments and acclama-
tions of the populace.

The ameer al amra, having affured Ferokhfere, that in cafe of
any breach of the royal promife, or defigns againft his brother
Koottub al Moolk, he would return to Dhely in twenty days,
began his march towards Dekkan. The emperor however had
recalled Daood Khan, the chief of an Afghaun tribe of tried valour,
and poffeffmg great influence and friendlhip with the Mharattas,
from the government of Guzarat to that of Boorahanpore, appar-
ently as deputy to the ameer al amra, but with fecret orders to
oppofe and cut him off. Daood Khan, on his arrival at Boorahan-
pore, began to aft as if independant ; upon which the ameer al
amra fent a meffage to him, that as the government of all Dekkan
had been conferred upon him, it was neceffary he fhould not draw
his foot from the circle of obedience, but come to meet him fub-
miffively, or retire to Dhely. Daood Khan, difregarding this,
pitched his camp under the walls of the city, and called to his
affiftance Neemajee Sindia, a principal Mharatta chief, who had
been taken into the imperial fervice by Shaw Aulum, and enjoyed
the rank of feven thouland, with feveral diftridts in jaghire in the
vicinity of Aurungabad.

The ameer al amra, when arrived near Boorahanpore, repeated
his admonitions, but in vain, upon which he marched to punifh
him ; and Daood Khan, who regarded himfelf as the hero of his

age.

FEROKHSERE,

age, was prepared to receive him. The engagement was very
bloody on both fides. Daood Khan had given orders to his ele-
phant driver to carry him to the ameer al amra, whom he was
ambitious of attacking in perfon ; and notwithftanding his advanced
line, which had charged the artillery of the enemy, was driven
back with great daughter, he, with many of his chief officers
mounted on elephants, made repeated attempts to break through
the foe. His bravery began to alarm the troops of the ameer al
amra, feveral of whofe principal dependants were killed and
wounded, and among them Meer Mufhriff, the chief officer and
favourite of his mafter, who was wounded by an arrow from Daood
Khan, and thrown from his elephant. At length Daood Khan
approached near the ameer al amra, whofe army, now feized with
a panic, fled on all fides, leaving him with only a few confidential
attendants. At this crifis, a matchlock ball flruck Daood Khan,
who fell dead on the feat of his elephant ; and the day of his pros-
perity funk into the darknefs of deftrudtion. His followers inftantly
difperfed, and the ameer al amra founded the trumpets of vidtory,
commanding the body of Daood Khan to be dragged at the tail of
an elephant round the city of Boorahanpore. Iseemajee Sindia,
who in the beginning of the adtion had retired to a diftance with his
followers, came up to congratulate the vidtor, and his troops plun-
dered the fugitives of his late patron. The effedts, horfes, and
elephants of Daood Khan were feized by the ameer al amra, who,
fome time afterwards, fent a few of the latter to court.

The following circumftance is related. Daood Khan, while
foubadar of Guzarat, had married the daughter of a zemindar of
that province, and fhe was at the time of his death feven months
gone with child. Determined not to furvive her lord, ffie ripped
open her womb, fo as to fave the life of the infant, and died.
When the emperor received intelligence of the victory gained by
the ameer al amra, he was much afflidted, and faid to Koottub al

Moolk,

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

Moolk, that fo valiant and celebrated a chief, as Daood Khan, had
been unjuftly flain ; when the vizier obferved, that had his brother
fallen by the hand of the Afghaun, his majefty would have been of
a different opinion.

During this year, by the well conduced valour of Abd al Sum-
mud Khan, Bunda, chief of the fiks, who had pretended to royalty,
and committed great depredations in the province of Lahore, was
taken prifoner, and received the juft reward of his crimes. He
was a lineally defcended from an adopted fon of Nannuk Shaw, the
founder of the religion of the ftks, in the reign of the emperor
Baber. Nannuk was the fon of a Hindoo grain merchant of the
Kuttree tribe, and being a youth of good capacity and pleafing
manners, engaged the notice of fyed Houftun, a celebrated dirveih,
by whofe inftrudions he made great progrefs in learning, and be-
came an admirer of the fyftems of fpeculative and contemplative
divinity of the muftulmaun devotees. Having feleded fome of their
tenets, he mandated them into the Punjaubee dialed:, with addi-
tions of his own, and called the compolition Kirrunt, which became
the guide of his difciples, who at firft formed only a religious fed,
without laying claim to political confequence. Nannuk left two
fons, but neither of them affumed the fupremacy of their order,
which was given by eledion to Angud, one of their father’s fol-
lowers, who held it thirteen years. He, having no fon, was fuc-
ceeded by a difciple, who prefided over the order twenty two
years, and though he had fons, he placed Ramdafs, his fon in law,
in the diredion. Ramdafs lived only feven years, and was fucceeded
by his fon Goorroh Arjun, whofe fon Hir Govind inherited his
dignity. Hir Govind’s eldeft fon dying, he was fucceeded by his
grandfon, Hir Roy, who after feventeen years left this world, and
was fucceeded by his infant fon Hir Kifhen. He having no iftue,

. he his

a This is contradidled by other writers, who fay he was of obfcure parentage;
but the fiks believe this account of his defcent, or affect to do fo.

FEROfCHSERE.

his uncle Teeghe Bahadur, younger fon of Hir Govind, was eleCted,
but was put to death as a dangerous heretic in the feventeenth year
of Aulumgeer’s reign, he having collected his followers, and levied
contributions from the inhabitants of his neighbourhood, in con-
junction with Hafiz Adam, a muflulmaun devotee, and his votaries.
Some time after the death of Teeghe Bahadur, his fon Goorroh
Govind, having collected his followers, gave them arms and horfes,
which till his time they had never ufed, and began to commit
depredations.; but he was foon obliged to fly, and two of his fons,
being taken prifoners, were put to death. Being defirous of return-
ing to his home, he prevailed on fome Afghauns to conduCt him,
difguifed as one of their devotees, through the army flationed at
Sirhind ; and for the remainder of his life kept himfelf retired,
having lofi: his faculties in grief for his fons. He ordered his dif-
ciples to wear blue, and leave their beards and the hair of their
heads unfhaved, which they do to this day*. He was fucceeded by
Bunda, one of his followers, who was alfo called Goorroh Govind.
This man obtained great power ; and while Shaw Aulum was in
Dekkan againft Kaum Bukhfh, collected his followers, to revenge
the death of his predeceflor’s fons. He committed the greatefi:
cruelties on the mufliilmauns, in every advantage fhewing no
quarter to age or fex, and even ripping up women with child. The
emperor Shaw Aulum found it neceflary to march in perfon againfl
him, and he was befieged in the fortrefs of Loeh Ghur, which
was taken, but Bunda found means to efcape, and raife new infur-
reCtions.

The

* The fiks admit profelytes from any fe£h They profefs deifm. Their cere-
monies I am not informed of They mourn at a birth, and rejoice at death.
It is faid, every profelyte is obliged to drink the water, in which fome flks
have wafhed their feet, mixed with hog’s blood ; a horrid abomination to a
pious muflulmaun. Hindoo profelytes drink water, in which a few drops of
a cow’s blood have been mingled.

144

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

The death of Shaw Aulum, the difputes of his fons, and the
unfettled flate of Jehaundar Shaw’s government, prevented means
being taken for the extirpation of the herefy ; and Bunda, taking
advantage of the diftraCtion of the times, acquired an alarming
degree of power. Upon the acceffion of Ferokhfere, Iflaum Khan,
foubadar of Lahore, was fent againfl him, but defeated with great
daughter ; upon which Bazeed Khaun, fojedaur of Sirhind, was
commanded to punifh him, and took the field. He was aflaffinated
in his tent, when alone at evening prayers, by a fik, commiffioned
for that purpofe by Bunda, and the murderer efcaped- unhurt. Abd
al Summud Khan, governor of Kafhmeer, was now promoted to
the foubadary of Lahore, and fent againfl the rebels with a great
army. After many fevere engagements, he forced Bunda to take
refuge in a fortrefs, which was blockaded fo effectually, as to cut
off every fupply. The garrifon was reduced to the neceffity of eat-
ing cows, horfes, affes, and other animals forbidden by their laws ;
when at length, having no provifion of any fort left, and being
reduced to the extremity of famine and difeafe, they begged for
quarter. Abd al Summud Khan, having planted a ftandard on the
plain, commanded them to come out and lay their arms under it,
which they did. He then divided the meaner fort among his chiefs,
who cut off their heads, and threw their bodies into a river near
the fortrefs. The chiefs and perfons of rank he put in chains, and
placed them upon camels and affes, with caps of paper on their
heads, and proceeded with them to Lahore in this manner, to excite
the derifion and infults of the populace. The mother of Bazeed
Khan, whofe murderer had been rewarded by the fiks, and diflin-
guifhed by the title of Tara Sing, upon his being pointed out to her
in the proceflion, threw down a heavy flone from the roof of her
houfe as he paffed, and killed him on the fpot, in revenge for the
death of her fon. After fome days, Bunda and the other captives
were fent to Dhely ; through which he was carried in an iron cage
upon an elephant, dreffed in a robe of gold brocade, and upon his

head

FEROKHSERE. 145

head a red turban, embroidered with gold. Behind him fat a
foldier with a drawn fabre. Preceding him were borne by perfons
mounted on elephants numberlefs heads of his difciples on long poles,
alfo a cat upon a ftaff, to denote that not an animal belonging to
him was fpared from daughter. After his elephant came, tied two
and two upon camels, feven hundred and forty prifoners, having
each a hand bound to his neck. Upon their heads were fantaftic
caps, and they wore habits of fheep fkins, with the wool outwards.

The fiks bore the infults of the populace with the greateft firmnefs,
and fteadily refufed the emperor’s offers of life if they would em-
brace the Mahummedan faith. They were put to death, an hun-
dred each day, on the enfuing feven days. On the eighth, Bunda
and his fon, with their, remaining friends, were executed without
the city. They were carried to the place of execution in ridiculous
proceftion. A dagger was put into the hands of the chief, who
was commanded to kill his infant fon ; but refufing, the child was /

flain by the executioner, his heart torn out, and forced into the
father’s mouth. Bunda was then put to death, by the tearing of
his flefh with red hot pincers and other tortures, which he bore
with the greateft conftancy ; and had he not inflicted fimilar cruel-
ties on others, he might be regarded as a martyr to his faith. It
is faid, he made the following reply to Mahummud Ameen Khan,
who had remonftrated with him on his conduct : “ When the fins of
“ a people become exceftive, the divine Avenger fends forth among
“ them a tyrant, like myfelf, to punifti their crimes ; but when
“ the meaiure of juftice is filled, commits him to the hands of one
“ more powerful, that he may receive the reward of his actions.

“ What are the cruelties and oppreflions of the wicked, if they
fhew not the rod of the Almighty ! ” a
Vol. II. U Ferokhfere

3 The fiks now pofiefs the provinces of Lahore, Pungjaub, and Moultaun,
with great part of Dhely, and hands of them have more than once made in-
roads on the navob vizier’s dominions, but have been as often eafily repelled

(

146

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

A. H. 1128. Ferokhfere had levied a body of twenty thoufand horfe, and
A. D. 1715. Jettled the pay of each man at a fifty rupees per month, which had
now fallen in arrear a whole year. Many of the officers having
from two to nine hundred men, had ferved, in hopes of procuring
jaghires, without perfonal pay, during this period, at the end of
which orders were iffiied to difmifs them. At this crifis, alfo, Meer
Jumlah arrived at Dhely from his government of Bahar, where
affairs were in the utmoft confufion, owing to his bad conduct.
He had kept up a greater force than he could pay, fo that the
foldiers became mutinous, and committed the greateft outrages and
oppreffions on the inhabitants of the city of Patna, and the diftridts.
Meer Jumlah, dreading a revolt as dangerous to his perfonal fafety,
fled unknown to his followers, and travelling in a covered litter
reached Dhely in fifteen days from Patna. His fudden arrival gave
univerfal credit to reports, which had been prevailing, that Ferokh-
fere was meditating the imprifonment of the vizier ; and though he
was not admitted to the prefence, but received tokens of the royal
difpleafure for quitting his government without orders, and wenthim-
felf to vifit Koottub al Moolk, whofe mediation he begged with the
humbleft entreaties, his conduct was interpreted as deceitful. The
difcharged cavalry, clamorous for arrears, had furrounded the palaces
of Mahummud Ameen, paymaffer, Khan Dowraun, deputy to the
ameer al amra, and Meer Jumlah, which was attributed to the
intrigues of the latter, and an intent of feizing the vizier in the
tumult. Koottub al Moolk being alarmed, collected his dependants

from

by the approach of our army. They have a tradition among them, from their
founder Nannuk, that their order and power will be deftroyed by white men
from the weft ; and they regard Europeans as the people deftined to fulfil the
prophecy. Nannuk is faid alfo to have told the emperor Baber, that his de-
fcendaivts would fill the throne of Dhely for ten generations, and no longer.
If fo, this prophecy may be regarded as nearly verified, Shaw Aulum being the
tenth in defcent ; and it is more than probable, that after him an emperor
will ceafe to be acknowledged in Hindooftan. At prefent he is merely nominal,
» Between five and fix pounds fterling.

FEROKHSERE.

*47

from the neighbouring difixiCtsj and during five or fix days the
capital was a fcene of confufion, both the mutineers and the forces
of the vizier being under arms, watching the motions of each other
day and night. At length Meer Jumlah took refuge with Mahum-
mud Ameen Khan, and Ferokhfere, to calm the fufpicions of the
vizier, having removed him from his employments, banifhed him
to Lahore, and fatisfied the foldiery ; but this, as there was no fin-
cerity between the parties, did not put an end to their jealoufies ;
fo that the emperor never went to hunt or made a movement, but
reports arofe that it was to feize Koottub al Moolk, who was
always in alarm, and furrounded by troops for his protection.

In this year died the Navob Afoph ad Dowlah Aflud Khan A. H. 1129
Bahadur, father to the late ameer al amra, in the ninety fourth lunar A* D* *7 16
year of his age. He was defcended from an illuftrious family of
Turkomauns. His father fled from the oppreflions of Shaw Abbas
of Perfia into Hindooftan, was raifed to high rank by Jehaungeer,
and married the daughter of a near relation to his emprefs Noor
Jehaun. The name of Afoph ad Dowlah was Ibrahim. He was
very early noticed by Shaw Jehaun, who married him to a daughter
of his vizier Afoph Jah, brother to the emprefs above mentioned,
and promoted him to the office of fecond bukhfhi, which he held
till the fifteenth year of Aulumgeer, when he was raifed to the
rank of four thoufand, and a few years afterwards to the office of
vizier, and higheft order of nobility, feven thoufand. He was con-
tinued in employment by Azim Shaw, upon whofe death he was
diflinguifhed by Shaw Aulum, appointed a vaqueel muttulluk, and
his fon made ameer al amra ; but on the acceffion of Ferokhfere
he was difgraced, had his eftates feized, and his fon was put to
death. Since that period, he had lived upon a fcanty penfion in
a fort of confinement, but much refpeCted by all ranks. It is

U 2 reported,

* An officer properly controuling every department, never created but on great
emergencies. To Afoph ad Dowlah it was a mere nominal honour.

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

reported, that Ferokhfere, in his laft illnefs, fent to afk his pardon
for his treatment of him, and to requert his advice how to aft to-
wards the fyeds. Afoph ad Dowlah faid, that the emperor had
been led to do wrong by his unlucky deftiny, and when he had
ruined his family, he had deftroyed the pillars of the empire of
Timur ; that as he had entrufted the reins of government to the
fyeds, he fhould feek only their fatisfatrt ion, for dilfention could
only render his affairs worfe, and draw down ruin upon his own
head. Afoph ad Dowlah was buried with great funeral pomp,
at the expenfe of the emperor, in a maufoleum, eredted by his
father for the family.

Ferokhfere, by the advice of his favourites, had appointed
feveral perfons to offices in Dekkan ; but the ameer al amra, re-
garding them as inimical to his authority, kept them unemployed
by various excufes, and filled their places with his own dependants ;
which enraged the emperor, who was treated alfo with the fame
difrefpeft by his vizier at Dhely. The dewan. Raja Ruttun Chund,
controuled all the imperial offices, fo as to leave their poffefibrs
only a name. He farmed out in leafe the 8 royal demefnes to his
own creatures ; and the imperial dewan and Roy Royan, whofe
peculiar employ it was to regulate them, finding it in vain to pleafe
the emperor and his minifters, being diverted of all power, re-
querted to refign their nominal offices.

Ferokhfere, willing if poffible to regain his authority, recalled
to court Einaiut Oollah Khan, who had been dewan to Aulumgeer,

intending

8 Left this expreffion fhould be mifunderftood, it is fignified, that the pro-
perty of the foil is all in the emperor, and the landholders are removeable at
pleafure ; but they were fuffered to be hereditary, unlefs in cafes of treafon,
rebellion, or defalcation of revenue, except in thofe diftri&s above named demefnes,
which were referved for the private fupport of the royal houfehold, and were
farmed to renters annually, or in leafe.

FEROKHSERE.

149 '

intending to reftore him to his former office ; but this nobleman,
fearful of offending the powerful vizier, at firfl declined the offer,
nor did Koottub al Moolk, who had experienced his abilities, wifli
for fuch a rival. He was, however, at length perfuaded by Akh-
laafs Khan, his friend, who tried to reconcile the jarring interefls,
to confent to the appointment, on a promife that Einaiut Oollah
fhould not propofe any thing to the emperor, or fill inferior offices,
without his knowledge and approbation, and agreed that Ruttun
Chund fhould not interfere in the management of the royal revenue.
As Koottub al Moolk, on. account of the difpleafure of Ferokhfere
and his own fondnefs for pleafure, fat but little in the courts of the
vizarut, which occafioned great delay in bufinefs and vexation to
clients, Einaiut Oollah requefted that he would at leafl come once a
day to his office ; which he promifed, but foon failed to perform.

Einaiut Oollah Khan, notwithstanding his reputed abilities, did
not confult the temper of the times, fo very different from thofe
of the reign of Aulumgeer. He obtained the emperor’s orders to
revive the a capitation tax upon infidels ; which difobliged Raja
Ruttun Chund and all the Hindoos. As many eunuchs, Kafh-
mirians, Hindoos, and perfons of bad characters, had procured
valuable jaghires, fo as to leave no fubfiftence or rewards for the de-
ferving, he wifhed to confifcate fome and leffen others, to make
room for them. This regulation interfering with the dependants of
Koottub al Moolk, he was much difpleafed, and all the deputies in *
office hated the flridtnefs of the new dewan. The agreement be-
tween him and the vizier was foon broken, and changed into mutual
oppofition. A dependant of Ruttun Chund, who owed a confider-
able balance of revenue to government, was confined for the debt
by Einaiut Oofiah, who refufed to releafe him at the requeft of his
patron j but the defaulter finding means to make his efcape, took

fhelter

* Thirteen rupees per annum for every two thoufand of property pofleffed by
the Hindoos. The lame, blind, and very poor, were excufed.

AURUNGZEBE’S successors.

Shelter in his houfe, and Ruttun Chund would not give him up to
the royal officers. The emperor, enraged at his infolence, com-
manded Koottub al Moolk to difcharge him from his fervice ; but
the vizier would not obey.

Another great caufe of difagreement between the emperor and
Koottub al Moolk was this: Raja Jey Sing had been difpatched
with a powerful army to reduce Chooramun, chief of the Jauts,
who had raifed a rebellion in the province of Agra ; the rebel,
after a refiftance of nearly a year, being reduced to extremity, fent
an agent to Koottub al Moolk, offering to pay him a confiderable
fum of money, a large pefficufh to the royal treafury, and to come
and make his fubmiffions at court, if he would procure his pardon
and recall the troops of Jey Sing. The vizier, thinking to pro-
cure a new and ufeful partizan in Chooramun, obliged Ferokhfere,
much againft his inclination, to accept the offers. The rebel
accordingly came to Dhely, and was admitted once to the royal
prefence. Raja Jey Sing was greatly difpleafed at the efcape of
Chooramun from his hands, and complained to Ferokhfere of the
indignity ffiewn him in return for his fervices. Difagreeable intel-
ligence alfo arrived from Dekkan, which caufed freffi diffentions at
court, and at length involved the empire in confufion.

When the ameer al amra, after the defeat of Daood Khan, had
proceeded to the capital of Aurungabad, and began to adjuff the
affairs of his government, he found that Kaundoo Dhearee, who
was eftabliffied on the part of a Raja Sahoo in the province of
Khandeffie, had eredted a chain of fmall forts on the high road
between the port of Surat and the city of Boorahanpore. His Mha-
rattas, iffuing from thefe ftations, obliged merchants and travellers
to pay a fourth part of their property ; or, in cafe of reliffance,
plundered them of the whole, and confined their perfons till they

received

* Chief of the Mharattas.

FEROKHSERE,

received a ranfom. The ameer al amra difpatched one of his chiefs,
with four thoufand horfe and as many foot, to expell the Mharattas,
and raze the forts ; but this officer being drawn into an ambufh by
Kaundoo Dhearee, who pretended to fly before him, was defeated
and flain, with many of his troops, and the remainder were
made- prifoners. The ameer al amra now fent againft the rebels
Mohukkum Sing, his dewan, and his own brother Syef ad Dien
Ali Khan, governor of Boorahanpore, in great force ; upon which
Kaundoo, not chufing to hazard an engagement, retired to his
matter Raja Sahoo in the fortrefs of Sittarra, but his followers con-
tinued to commit depredations as ufual, cautioufly avoiding their
enemy. Mohukkum Sing, unable to bring the Mharattas to a
decifive action, marched to bettege Sittarra, when he was recalled
by the ameer al amra, who had obtained intelligence of' diffentions
at Dhely, and that the emperor had fent private orders to Raja
Sahoo and all the perfons of authority in Dekkan to oppofe and
diftrefs him. From this caufe, though he was vifited by Mubariz
Khan, foubadar of Ahmed a bad, and other imperial officers, yet
he never could properly ettablifh his authority in Beejapore, Hyder-
abad, or the Carnatics.

The emperor Aulumgeer, in a war of twenty five years, had
reduced the two remaining muffulmaun 3 monarchies of Dekkan, and
taken forty fortreffes from the Mharattas, when Tara Bhay, widow
of Ramrauje, their chief, offered to fubmit, if he would allow her
ten rupees in each hundred from the collections of the country, as
original proprietor of the foil. The emperor, however, either
difdaining to make terms with infidels, or from avarice, refufed this
offer. Shaw Aulum, his fucceflor, entered into negotiations for a
treaty with Tara Bhay and Raja Sahoo; but, owing to difagree-
ments between the two latter concerning the divifion of the allow-
ance, it was never finally adjutted ; and upon his return from

Dekkan

* Beejapore and Golconda,

15z

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

Dekkan the Mharattas demanded the choute, or fourth part of the
revenues, which the foubahdar Daood Khan agreed to pay them, on
condition that the jaghires of the princes of the blood and his own
ihould be excepted from this tribute; alfo, that his own agent,
Heeramun, Ihould fuperintend their collections, and that they Ihould
not plunder or molelt caravans. Thus affairs were tolerably con-
ducted during his government, and, at firlt, in that of his fucceffor
Nizam al Moolk, which lafted only a year and five months ; but
in the latter part of it the Mharattas renewed their plunders.

The ameer al amra, finding the emperor leagued with the
enemy, and his brother the vizier oppofed at Dhely, thought it
molt prudent to make peace, and bind the Mharattas to his interelt.
He accordingly ratified the conditions granted them by Daood
Khan, with the addition of the allowance of deefmukkee, or ten
rupees in every hundred. It was fettled, that Bilhonaut and
Chimnajee Ihould refide as agents of Raja Sahoo, with a refpeCtable
force, at Aurungabad, to receive the choute, and that they Ihould
eltablifh collectors in the diftriCts over the deefmukkee. Thus, for
a time, the calamities of war and its attendant famine, which had
vexed Dekkan for a long feries of years, fubfided, and the people
began to tafte repofe ; but the governors of dillriCts and farmers of
revenue were more diltreffed than ever, as they had now three col-
lectors, one from the prefence, one for the choute, and a third
for the deefmukkee. Ferokhfere was highly enraged at the ameer,
al amra for concluding this treaty, but had not the courage to refufe
his affent, or ability to counteract the ufurpations of his minifler,
who directed the affairs of Dekkan as he pleafed, employing none
but his own dependants, and paying no attention to the royal ap-
pointments, unlefs he was allured of the fidelity of the perfons to
himfelf.

About

FEROKHSERE.

1 53

About this time Ferokhfere had conferred the government of
Boorahanpore, as deputy to the ameer al amra, upon Jaun NifTar
Khan, an old nobleman of refpefted charadter, and related by
adoption to the minifters, in hopes that he would hearken to his
advice, and become more obedient to the imperial pleafure. Jaun
Niflar Khan arrived at the Nerbudda with only his common at-
tendants, not chufing to raife troops, left the appearance of them
fhould excite jealoufy in the ameer al amra, efpecially as Ma-
hummud Ameen Khan had been detached with an army to Malwa,
a province bordering on Dekkanr at the fame time he received his
commiflion. Reports had already fpread at Aurungabad, that the
motive for the march of thefe nobles was the deftrudtion of the
ameer al amra, and had magnified the domeftic train of one into
eight thoufand horfe, as an advanced body to an army under the
latter of fixty thoufand men. The ameer al amra, however, was
foon better informed, by the receipt of letters from Jaun NifTar
Khan, who requefted an efcort of troops to bring him to his pre-
fence, his fmall train being infuflicient to protect him againft a
banditti of Mharattas, who infefled the high road, under Sunta,
a chief, independant of Raja Sahoo. The ameer al amra complied
with his requeft ; and upon his arrival at Aurungabad treated him
with great refpedt, but delayed fending him to Boorahanpore, not
chuling to trufl a frontier Ration to one fent by the emperor.

This year was alfo diftinguifhed by the rapid and extraordinary
exaltation of Mahummud Moraud. This man, by birth a Kafh-
mirian, and native of the fame place as a Sahebeh Niffwaun, mother
to Ferokhfere, was by her introduced to the emperor, whom he
perfuaded that he could eafily effedl the deRrudtion of the fyeds,
without coming to open war, or caufing confufion in the Rate.
Ferokhfere, gratified by his flatteries, fuddenly promoted him to the

W rank

3 Anglice , Chief of women.

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

rank of feven thoufand, with fuitable jaghires, and the title of
a Rukkun ad Dowlah. He daily conferred upon him the moft ex-
travagant prefents of jewels and money ; alfo the rich bedftead,
fumptuoufly adorned with precious ftones, of the emperor Shaw
Jehaun. As Rukkun ad Dowlah was a man of infamous charac-
ter, it was fuppofed the emperor was a partner in his vice. By his
counfel, Nizam al Moolk was recalled to court from his govern-
ment of Moraudabad, and Sirbullund Khan from that of Patna,
with great promifes of favour, to join their influence in the deflruc-
tion of the fyeds. Ajeet Sing, raja of Rhatore and father in law to
the emperor, was alio invited to court for the fame purpofe ; but
immediately upon his arrival, feeing the irrefolution and varying
councils of the cabinet, he thought it fafeft to attach himielf to
the vizier. Nizam al Moolk and Sirbullund Khan, who expedted
the vizarut and ameer al amralhip, being told by the emperor
that he intended the former office for Rukkun ad Dowlah, refolved
to run no rifque merely to ferve the favourite, under whom they
efteemed it a difgrace to rank. Upon this, the diftridt of Moraud-
abad was taken from Nizam al Moolk, and being with additional
lands created into a foubahdary, was conferred on Rukkun ad Dowlah.
Many others of the principal nobility were alfo invited to accomplifh
the ruin of the minifte'rs ; but all, finding that it was only to ag-
grandize a worthlefs minion, refufed compliance. During thefe
cabals, the b eeed al fitter occurred, when the emperor as ufual
went in ftate, attended by the nobility and troops, to the place of
worfhip without the city ; and it was rumoured, that on this day
the vizier would be taken prifoner or aflaffinated. Koottub al
Moolk attended, but no attempt was made againfi: him. Jealou-
fies and apprehenfions had now arifen to fuch a height, that he
no longer thought himfelf fafe without his brother, and accord-
ingly

3 Pillar of the ftate.

b Feftival on conclufion of the great fall of Ramazan.

FEROKHSERE.

J55

ingly wrote him to haften to Dhely for their mutual fecurity,
as the moft powerful valfals of the empire were collected in the
capital, and Ferokhfere was daily planning fchemes for their
deftrudtion.

The ameer al amra, enraged by the intelligence from his
brother, refolved to march to his affiltance, and by a decifive blow
to deftroy the power of their enemies. He had already, in order
to alarm Ferokhfere, received with great pomp and ceremony
from Raja Sahoo, a youth called Moien ad Dien, faid to be a
fon of a Sultan Akber, and had requefted leave to come to court,
as the air of Dekkan was unfavourable to his health. Ferokhfere
was now filled with dread, and attempted a reconciliation with
the vizier ; who, in order to gain time for the arrival of his brother,
took a frelh oath of fidelity, as did the emperor of regard and
attachment ; but there was no fincerity on either fide. Akhlaafs
Khan was difpatched to allure the ameer al amra of the emperor’s
regard, and prevail upon him to remain in Dekkan. Koottub al
Moolk employed himfelf in attaching to his intereft, or at leaft
to Rand neuter, the few confequential nobility, who had not joined
his party, and he fucceeded. Nizam al Moolk was promifed the
government of Malwa, and Sirbullund Khan that of Cabul. Ma-
hummud Ameen Khan and Khan Dowraun were alfo drawn over ;
fo that Ferokhfere had now no perfon of real confequence or ability
attached to him, but Maharaja Jey Sing. He advifed the emperor
to take the field, and truft his caufe to the aifedtion of his troops,
who would be animated to their duty by feeing their fovereign at
their head, and defert the minifter, but in vain. Ferokhfere,
cowardly, and infatuated, would not quit the walls of his palace,
where he continued ; at one time laying fchemes for the aflaffina-

W 2 tion

a Fourth fon of Aurungzebe.

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

lion of the brothers, and at another, on their difcovery, making
abjedt fubmiffions, and imploring forgivenefs ; every effort at
freedom concluding in greater reftridtions upon his authority, and
hazard to his perfon.

A. H. 1131. The ameer al amra having placed his own garrifons in fuch

A. D. 1718. fortreffes of Dekkan as he chofe to retain, and given up the re-
mainder to the Mharattas, as the price of their friendlhip, began
his march, with an army of above thirty thoufand horfe, ten
thoufand of whom were Mharattas. Near the fort of a Mando,
he was met by Akhlaafs Khan, who had been fent from Dhely
by the emperor to allure him of his regard, and to prevail on him
to return to Dekkan ; but this agent was fecretly a fpy of the
vizier’s. Inftead of performing the royal commiffion, he repre-
fented the reconciliation of Ferokhfere as pretended, magnified,
the dangerous influence of Rukkun ad Dowlah, and fet forth the
danger the vizier was in from fo many of the principal nobility at
Dhely with troops, particularly Nizam al Moolk, Sirbullund Khan,,
Mahummud Ameen Khan, and Maharaja Jey Sing, who would
certainly fupport the emperor, fhould he but content to withdraw
his favour from Rukkun ad Dowlah. The ameer al amra continued
his march, and upon his arrival at Oojein received advice, that
the emperor, alarmed at his approach, had paid a vifit to Koottub
al Moolk, honoured him by placing his turban upon his head*
and that the mod; facred oaths of friendfhip had been taken be-
tween them ; that on the following day the vizier, with Maharaja
Ajeet Sing, had gone to court, where the proteflations of fidelity
and favour were renewed •, and Ferokhfere had fignified in full
affembly to Rukkun ad Dowlah and his dependants, that he
would henceforth exclude all jealoufies of the minifters from his
heart. The ameer al amra, on hearing this news, faid in public

durbar

a Once the capital of Malwa, now in ruins. It belongs to the Mharattas.

FEROKHSERE,

I57

durbar with a loud voice, that if the emperor had fincerely no
enmity againfl him, and fhould receive him with real favour, he
would on his part form no plans but of loyalty and attachment,
and would, after receiving audience and delivering up his royal
prifoner, return to his government. He was not however fincere
in his declarations, for it has been heard from the mouths of his
intimates, that, immediately after, he told them in private, that
he was convinced the emperor would ruin his family, fhould he
ever have it in his power, and their only fecurity was in his de-
thronement. He proceeded on his march, and at the diftance of
about four days from the capital was met by many of the principal
nobility, and his brother’s dewan. Raja Ruttun Chund, who re-
lated to him exaggerated accounts of the conduct of Ferokhfere
and his favourites ; which enraged him fo much, that he fhewed
open contempt to Zuffir Khan and others, who had been fent
from the emperor to compliment and affine him of the ■ royal
favour. At length they encamped clofe to Dhely, near the minaret
of Ferofe Shaw, and, contrary to the a rules of etiquette, com-
manded his band of mulic to play on his entering his tents,
faying, that he no longer confidered himfelf as a fervant of the
emperor, and would not regard the royal ceremonials.

Ferokhfere, upon intelligence of fuch a mark of difrefpedt,
was overwhelmed with dread, and at a lofs how to aft. At one
time he refolved to exert his authority, and take the field, to
punilh the rebel ; but his fears foon returned, and he had recourfe
to mediation and entreaty. Maharaja Jey Sing now again ad-
vifed him to leave the palace, and encamp ; alluring him, that
he would inftantly be joined by the imperial fervants, who would

double

a Agreeably to the ceremonial, no perfon is allowed, without permiffion,
to ufe the band or nobut within twenty four miles of the royal refidence.

*S8

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

double the force of the brothers in number, and punilh their
infolence ; that it was molt probable their own followers would
defert them, Ihould they fee. his majefty refolved, and join the
imperial Itandard, when the minilters mult fubmit to his pleafure,
or fly. Ferokhfere would not be roufed to adtion. He now de-
termined to give himfelf up to the mercy of the vizier and ameer
al amra, and even commanded all the nobility to receive their
orders, and adt as they diredted. At length he received a meflage
from Koottub al Moolk, that if he would difmifs Jey Sing from
court, and confer the offices immediately about the royal perfon,
fuch as the command of the palace artillery, the diredtion of the
halls of audience, and intendancy of the domeftics, on their de-
pendants, and admit a guard of their troops into the citadel, he
and his brother would come and pay their obeifance with readinefs
and loyalty. Ferokhfere in reply, allured them that he would
confer the above offices on Koottub al Moolk and other fyeds, and
receive their vilit on the feflival of the a noroze, which would be-
gin in a few days. Jey Sing, having received the royal orders to
quit Dhely without delay, retired to his zernindary of Ambere, un-
able to affift his wretched fovereign,

A. D. 1719. The unhappy Ferokhfere having confented to the demands
of the fyeds, on the eighth of February their troops were admit-
ted into the palace, and the royal guards withdrawn ; when
Koottub al Moolk with Maharaja Ajeet Sing entered, and poll-
ed their dependants where they thought proper, to prevent
treachery. None of the imperial fervants, but Rukkun ad Dow-
lah, Imteauz Khan, Roolhun ad Dowlah, and a few domeftics

and

3 Firft day of the Perfian folar year, which is obferved as a high feftival.
The emperor is weighed in a fcale againft fomewhat of every fort, from jewels
and gold to the mod common necelTaries of life, which are diflributed to the
poor.

FEROKHSERE.

JS9

and eunuchs, were allowed to remain with the emperor. The
ameer al amra, in princely Iplendour and parade, attended by
his army, marched through the city, and entered the palace
towards evening, his troops remaining under arms without, to
prevent diforders in the avenues. He was received with the
greateft diftindion by the emperor, who fhed tears, and placed
his own turban upon his head ; conferring upon him alfo, all
the jewels he had upon his drefs ; but the ameer al amra
behaved haughtily, refufed part of the gifts, and having up-
braided his majefty with ingratitude and want of confidence
in himfelf and his brother, who had been the inftruments of
his exaltation to the throne, took his leave in an haify man-
ner, negleding the cuftomary ceremonial of refped at his depar-
ture, and returned to his camp. At the fame time the vizier,
with his followers, left the palace, and the royal guards were
readmitted to their ftations.

F erokhfere, though thus difrefpedfully treated by his minifters,
who, it was eafy to perceive, were not now to be controuled, or
reconciled to his authority by his condefcenfions, took no means
to protect his perfon. It is probable, he thought the brothers
would be contented with the powers of government, and leave
him the name and pageantry of emperor, and that he had refolved
to ftruggle no longer for greater privileges of royalty. Seven days
paffed after the interview. On the evening of the feventh, he
fignified his intentions to hunt in the vicinity of Dhely the follow-
ing morning, but laid afide his defign on the receipt of a meffage
from Koottub al Moolk, that the ameer al amra had fixed on the
next, as a lucky day, to deliver up the captive prince he had
brought from Dekkan, and to receive his audience of difmiffion
to his government. It has been faid, the brothers had information
that Ferokhfere’s wifh to hunt was only a pretence to favour his

efcape

i6o AURUNGZEBE’s successors.

efcape from their hands, and that he had refoived to fly to Ma-
haraja Jey Sing; but this does not appear probable, as he had
fuffered fo many days to elapfe without attempting to quit the
palace, which he could have more eaflly effected in difguife, and
unattended, than with his ufual fuite and cumbrous train of majefty.

On the morning of the fixteenth of February, Koottub al
Moolk, attended by Maharaja Ajeet Sing, fome confidential de-
pendants and guards, came to the citadel, and were allowed as
before to difmifs the royal garrifon, and fupply their polls with their
own. The ameer al amra then difpatched his troops to occupy the
avenues to the palace, and about three in the afternoon came in
great pomp through the city, carrying in his train, upon an ele-
phant in a covered 3 ambaree, the pretended captive prince ; but
he did not proceed to the palace, alighting at the pavilion of
Shailleh Khan, fome dillance from it, where he remained. The
vizier and Ajeet Sing now introduced themfelves to the emperor, and
demanded certain conceflions and appointments for themfelves and
friends. Koottub al Moolk in angry terms fet forth, that in return
for the fervices performed by himfelf and his brother, they had
met with only ill-founded jealoufles, and treacherous attempts upon
their lives ; of which the royal orders to Daood Khan and others
to oppofe them were clear proofs ; that they could not any longer
fubmit to his authority, unlefs they had fecurity for their perfonal
fafety, by all the offices of the palace being committed to the hands
of their own friends, upon which they muff: inlift. Ferokhfere,
notwithftanding he faw himfelf entirely in the power of his enemies,
delired they would wait till the approaching feftival, when their
requefts Ihould be complied with ; which the vizier refufed, and
Rukkun ad Dowlah attempting to pacify his anger, was ordered in
opprobrious terms to quit the citadel. This he did in the greatefl
confuflon, and was conveyed to his own houfe in the palanquin of

Imteauz

a A canopied feat.

FEROKHSERE.

Imteauz Khan, not ufing his own, through fear of being molefU
ed by the troops. Ferokhfere now retreated to the apartments
of the women, which he hoped would not be violated by the
rebels. Night was advanced, and day, like the fallen ftar of the
emperor, funk in darknefs. The gates of the citadel were clofed
upon his friends. The vizier and Ajeet Sing remained within.
This night was dreadful to the inhabitants of the city. No one
knew what was palling in the palace, and the troops of the ameer
al amra, with ten thoufand Mharattas, remained under arms. Early
in the morning, a rumour took place that the vizier had been
killed by Ajeet Sing, who had refolved to proted: the emperor,
his fon in law; upon which feveral noblemen prepared to rife
againft the ameer al amra. By this time a quarrel had happened
between fome foldiers of Khan Dowraun and a party of Mharattas,
and while they were engaged, the train of Mahummud Ameen Khan,
who was coming to vilit the ameer al amra, appearing, was miftaken
by the Mharattas for an enemy, which ftruck them with a panic,
and they endeavoured to fly out of the city. The populace at-
tacked them, and killed about fifteen hundred, with three chiefs
of note. So great was their fright, that numbers quitted their
horfes, and fought fhelter in houfes, where they were plundered.
Mahummud Ameen Khan repaired to the ameer al amra, and ex-
culpated himfelf from caufing this diforder. Ghazee ad Dien Khan,
Sadaut Khan, his fons, and other nobles, had now drawn out their
dependants againft the rebels in one quarter of the city, and in
another, Munnower Azaree had collected five thoufand men for
the fame purpofe ; Rukkun ad Dowlah and other amras were alfo
ready with their troops in another part. The friends of the ameer
al amra, alarmed at the rumour of his brother’s death, and the
flight of the Mharattas, were in a wavering fiate, and ready to
make their efcape, when their courage was revived by intelligence of
the vizier’s fafety. This was foon fpread abroad, and the emperor’s
VoLr II. - X fervants

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

Servants were difperfed with little bloodfhed or refiftance. It was
now confirmed that Ferokhfere had been taken pnfoner ; and the
8 nobut announced to the people from the walls of the citadel, the
acceflion of Ruffeh al Dirjaut to the throne, which appealed the
tumult, and order was in great meafure reftored. Many houfes
however were plundered, and the royal llables burned, during the
disturbance.

It is faid, that Koottub al Moolk repeatedly requested Ferokh-
fere to quit the private apartments, and defigned to leave him in
poffeffion of the throne, if he would confent to certain reftridtions ;
but the emperor would not truft his perfon from the haram.
While arguments were carrying on between him and the vizier,
the tumult began without the city, and Koottub al Moolk receiv-
ed information from his brother, that no time was to be loft, as
there was danger of a general revolt of their friends and the
people. Reduced to extremity, he commanded fome Afghauns
to force the doors, under the conduit of his brother Nudjum ad
Dien, who having effected it, though bravely refifted by the
Georgian, Ethiopian, and Turkilh women-attendants, entered the
ladies’ apartments. After much Search, he found the emperor,
Surrounded by his mother, wife, daughter, and other princeftes,
who entreated for his Safety; but, at fuch a time, in vain. He
was forced from among them in the moft injurious manner, and
immediately confined in a dark chamber, over one of the gates of
the palace. Ruffeh al Dirjaut, the Son of Ruffeh al Kuoder,
youngeft fon of Shaw Aulum, was then taken from among the
confined princes, and feated on the throne, with the title of bAbou
Berkaut Shumfe ad Dien Mahummud. His acceftion was an-
nounced

a Band of Mufic.

k Son of divine favour, Sun of the religion of Mahummud.

FEROKHSERE;

l$3

nounced by the found of the nobut and firing of cannon, and in a
few hours order and quiet were reftored to the capital. Excluding
the reign of Jehaundar Shaw, which by fome is added to that of
Ferokhfere, he fat on the throne of Hindooftan fix years, four
months, and a few days, according to lunar computation.

X 2

ABOU

164

AURUNGZEBE’S successors.

ABOU BERKAUT RUFFEH AL DIRJAUT.

Upon the acceffion of the new emperor, who was yet in his
minority, it was agreed, that Koottub al Moolk fhould refide in
the palace ; which he filled with his own dependants and relations,
removing even the eunuchs and other domeflicks for thofe of his
own choice. At the firft public divan a firmaun was ifliied, at
the requefl of Maharaja Ajeet Sing and Ruttun Chund, to annul
the capitation tax on unbelievers, and orders were fent to the dif-
ferent provinces confirming the governors and officers in pofleffion
of their polls. Rukkun ad Dowlah was put under flridt confine-
ment, his fortune confifcated, and proclamation made for the dis-
covery of his effects, as it was fuppofed he had fecreted great
fums and valuable jewels given him by Ferokhfere among his
friends. Severe tortures were alfo inflicted * upon his perfon, to
compel a difclofure of his wealth. The jaghires and property of
all the dependants of the late emperor were feized, excepting thofe
of the ranny his queen, daughter to Ajeet Sing, at whofe requefl
they were fpared, and fhe was allowed to return to her father.
The a walla fhawee munfubdars and cavalry, many of whom had
ferved long without pay in hope of obtaining jaghires, and thofe
who had an allowance but were greatly in arrears, were difbanded
without receiving any part ; and orders ifiued, that fuch of them
as chofe it, might enter the fervice of the ameer al amra, at fifty
rupees per month for each horfeman. Mahummud Ameen Khan

was

a A corps railed before Ferokhfere’s acceffion to the empire, by that prince.

ABOU BERKAUT RUFFEH AL DIRJAUT.

165

was appointed fecond, and Muzzuffir Khan third bukhffii. Though
Nizam al Moolk, regarding the uncertainty of the times, wiffied
to retire, he was prevailed upon to accept the foubahdary of Malwa.
Sirbullund Khan, who had marched towards Cabul, but had halted
about thirty miles from Dhely to watch the turn of events, was
recalled to court, and received a freffi inveftiture in his govern-
ment; after which he proceeded. Mahummud Reza was made
chief cauzee, and Ameer Khan, an old nobleman of Aulumgeer’s
reign, appointed a fuddur al fuddoor ; but all the affairs of revenue
and juftice were in fadt only the deputies of Raja Ruttun Chund.
No alteration was made in the arrangements of the provinces, left
it fhould occafion difcontent and confufion, of which little had yet
occurred at any diftance from the capital.

The death of Ferokhfere is related in two different modes,
both of which fhall be given, leaving the truth or falfehood on their
authors.

It has been confidently faid by many credible perfons, that the
brothers, without inflidting any perfonal injury, committed him to
the care of an Afghaun officer in a gateway of the palace. Ferokh-
fere one night left his chamber, while his keeper was afleep, in-
tending to let himfelf down from the battlements of the citadel,
by his turban and veftband ; but was foon difcovered by the wary
Afghaun, who forced him with blows from the terrace ; which
difgrace fo affefted the unhappy prince, that he beat his head with
fuch force againft the walls of his prifon as to fradture his fkull,
and he died immediately.

Mahummud Affium relates the following account, which is
given in his own words.

“ The

a An office fomewhat fimilar to chief juftice. The intendancy of charity lands,
and penfions to the learned and religious, were alfo under its controul.

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

“ The wretched emperor was confined nearly two months in
a dark chamber, enduring various calamities. A hot iron was
“ drawn over his eyes, but it did not wholly deftroy his fight.
" Still anxious for liberty, he fent repeated meffages to the fyeds,
4< begging mercy and reftoration to his throne ; offering to aCt in
all affairs agreeably to their pleafure. Sometimes he flattered
*( his keeper, Abdoolla Khan Afghaun, promifing him the greateff
“ rewards if he would conduCt him to Maharaja Jey Sing of
“ which the Afghaun informing his employers, they became fear-
“ ful of his efcape, and refolved upon his death. Poifon was
“ twice mingled in his victuals without effeCt ; but being adminif-
(< tered a third time, he was thrown into violent agonies, and
“ continued long in torture. During his pangs he invoked curfes
“ on his murderers, and called on God, whole name had witnefled
“ the treaty he had made with them, to avenge his caufe by in-
“ ffant punifhment. The brothers, upon this, ordered his death
“ to be haftened with the bow-fixing, but it was with difficulty the
“ executioners could place it round his neck, as he feized it with
“ his hands, and they were obliged to beat them with clubs, fo
“ that he was put to great pain before he expired. It was re-
i( ported, that he was alfo mangled with fabres ; but the author
“ has heard this contradicted by the executioners themfelves, who
“ related the above particulars to him with tears of compunction.
“ The evening of the day following, the body was carried for in-
se ferment to the tomb of a Hoomaioon. The populace attended
“ the proceflion in crowds, curling the fyeds, and lamenting
“ Ferokhfere, who was much beloved by the meaner fort for his
te great charities towards them. They infulted the officers who
“ conduced the funeral by abufive words, pelting them with ffones
te and filth ; nor would any one receive from them the alms
“ offered as ufiual oh fuch occafions. On the third day after the
“ burial, all the poor of the city repaired to the terrace on which

“ the

* Father of the emperor A kber.

ABOU BERKAUT RUFFEH AL DIRJAUT.

st the corpfe had been walhed, to renew their mournings ; and
“ having fubfcribed to procure a molowees and buy b vidtuals, con-
“ tinued lamenting and praying all night till the dawn of morn-
“ ing.” Thus far fays Mahummud Afhum. But furely the divine
vengeance was fhewn in the misfortunes and death of Ferokh-
fere, for he had inflidted thofe cruelties on others which he now
tailed of himfelf. As for the fyeds they ihortly alfo received re-
tribution for their actions.

The brothers, now pofleffed of abfolute authority and the im-
perial treafures, adted as they thought proper. They divided,
money, jewels, elephants, horfes, and rich plate between them
and Koottub al Moolk, who was much addidted to women, feized
feveral ladies of the royal haram for his own ufe. The new
emperor was but a child, and no more than a pageant i but he
did not long furvive his exaltation, dying of a confumption, after
a nominal reign of four months and a few days ; being fucceeded
by his younger brother Ruffeh ad Dowlah.

RUFFEH

a Profeflors of divinity, or teachers.

b At the fateah, or third day after the interment of a corpfe, the relations:
and friends of the deceafed meet to pray for the repofe of the foul, when
victuals are diftributed to all comers and the poor. This ceremony is alfo
renewed every anniverfary of the death.

168

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

a RUFFEH AD DOWLAH.

IMMEDIATELY on the acceffion of Ruffeh ad Dowlah, a re-
bellion broke out at Agra. The governor of this citadel, willing
to take advantage of the troubles of the flate, fupported by his
garrifon and fome munfubdars of the province, proclaimed as em-
peror fultan Nekoofeer, fon of Akber, youngeft fon of Aulumgeer,
hoping that he fhould fpeedily be joined by Maharaja Jey Sing,
and other nobles inimical to the fyeds. The brothers, upon re-
ceiving intelligence of this commotion, marched with Rulfeh ad
Dowlah from Dhely without delay, and reached Agra betore the
governor could receive any important affiftance. He held out the
citadel for fome days, in hopes of fuccour but, finding that a
plot was laid by his own troops to deliver him up to his enemy,
he put himfelf to death, and the place was given up to the minif-
ters, who punifhed a few of the officers with death, and remanded
Nekoofeer to his confinement. Soon after this, Ruffeh ad Dowlah
was taken ill, and being paft hopes of recovery, Nudjum Ali
Khan was difpatched to Dhely to bring down one of the confined
princes to fucceed him. He fixed upon Roofhun Akhter, the fon
of Jehaun Shaw, fon of Shaw Aulum, eldefl furviving fon of Au-
rungzebe, who, with his mother, had been confined fince the
death of his father and acceffion of Jehaundar • Shaw. Ruffeh

3 Dignifier of the ftate.

ABOU BERKAUT RUFFEH AL DIRJAUT.

ad Dowlah died before his arrival, after a reign of only three
months. This event was kept fecret for fome days in the camp,
to prevent diforder, till the arrival of a Roofhun Akhter ; when
the royal corpfe was fent in great funeral pomp to Dhely, where
it was interred in the maufoleum of Koottub ad Dien, near his
brother and predeceflor Abou Berkaut.

a Of brilliant ftar.

VOL. II.

MAHUMMUD

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

Rooshun Akhter arrived in the camp at Futtehpore on the
720, eleventh of Zeekaud ; and on the fifteenth of the lame month,
about eight in the morning, being the feledted fortunate hour,
added fplendour to the throne of Hindooftan by his aufpicious
acceffion. He took the title of aAbou Futteh Nafiir ad Dien
Mahummud Shaw. He was at this time in his feventeenth year.
Navob Koodfia, his mother, followed him from Dhely, and being
a woman of great judgment and good fenfe, did not negleft a
regard to the circumftances of the times, but devoted her attention
to acquire the confidence of the brothers in all affairs. The de-
pendants of her late hulband Jehaun Shaw would have gone to
meet her, but Ihe forbad them, and commanded that no one
fhould approach the door of her apartments to prefent offerings,
being refolved to remove every caufe of jealoufy from the fyeds.
6 Fifteen thoufand rupees per menfem were allotted for the expenfes
of her houfehold. The emperor was furrounded by the depend-
ants of the vizier and ameer al amra, without whofe affent he did
not even move from the camp to take the air ; and by the inllruc-
tion of his mother, he fiudied wholly the pleafure of his miniflers,
who conducted the affairs of the empire with abfolute fway.

As the brothers were not fatisfied with the conduct of Jub-
beleh Ram Naggir, governor of Aleabad, who had fhewn them

difrefpedt,

a Father of vi&ory, champion of religion.
b About fifteen hundred pounds fterling.

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

difrefpedt, the ameer al amra prepared to march to that quarter, but
fuddenly received intelligence of his death, upon which he impru-
dently obferved. It was to be regretted that his head had not
been feen by the people on the point of a lpear. This fpeech
coming to the ears of Gheerdhir, nephew to the deceafed, he re-
folved not to fubmit to the authority of the fyeds, colleded troops,
and affumed independance in his province. Upon this, the ameer
al amra moved the royal camp towards Agra, ordered a bridge of
boats to be thrown over the Jumna, and, giving out that he Should
foon follow with the emperor, detached fome troops againft the
rebel. About this time Meer Jumlah was appointed l'uddur al
fuddoor; but the powers of this office, as of every other, were
controuled by Ruttun Chund ; infomuch that he even constituted
the judges of the Mahummedan law in the provinces. It is faid,
that one day, taking fome perfons to be introduced as cauzees to
Koottub al Moolk, the vizier, laughing, obferved, that he ap-
pointed muffulmaun divines, though a Hindoo j upon which one
of his companions wittily remarked, that the raja, having hap-
pily fettled his temporal concerns, had turned his attention to
Spiritual affairs.

Gheerdhir, alarmed at the threatened march of the ameer al
amra, fent petitions to court, offering to evacuate the fort of Ale-
abad, if the ministers would fend Raja Ruttun Chund to affure
him of their friendship, and appoint him to another government.
His requeft was complied with, and the foubahdary of Oude was
conferred upon him, with promotion to a higher rank. This in-
dulgence was considered as a proof of weaknefs in the ministers
by the provincial governors, who now began to relax in their obe-
dience. It was alfo rumoured abroad, that the brothers had dif-
fered concerning the division of plunder in the citadel of Agra,
which occafioned miStruSt and jealoufy among their dependants.

Y 2

*7*

Nizam

172

A. D. 1720,

AURUNGZEBE's SUCCESSORS.

Nizam al Moolk, who had been appointed foubahdar of Malwa,
had by his vigour and abilities reflored that province to a flourifhing
fituation; but the reputation he acquired rendered him an objedl
of jealoufy to the brothers, who wifhed to remove him to another
quarter, lefs favourable to his interest than the frontier of Dekkan,
where he had great influence with the Mharattas. They offered
him the choice of four other foubahs, under pretence that the
ameer al amra wifhed to refide in Malwa, as from its vicinity he
could better watch the affairs of his government of Dekkan ; but
Nizam al Moolk, not wifhing to quit his poll:, excufed himfelf,
and prepared to refill the demand by adding to his force. It is
faid alfo, that he had the boldnefs to conclude a letter to the vizier
with this verfe : “ I am not ungrateful, I can fwear with truth ;
“ I am not like you, I can fwear with truth.” Upon reading this,
the fyeds were enraged, and fending for the agent of Nizam al
Moolk, imprudently treated him with infult, and fpoke of his
employer in opprobrious language.

Nizam al Moolk, upon information of the behaviour of the fyeds,
refolved to throw off his obedience to their authority, and feek an
independant /power in Dekkan. To this he looked with greater
hopes of fuccefs, as Mahummud Ameen, and other Tooraunee
nobles at court, had affured him they were weary of the pride and
haughtinefs of the ufurpers, and would try every means to ruin
them, which would eafily be effected if they could be feparated,
and moll probably his invading Dekkan would draw the ameer al
amra to that quarter. They fent him alfo a private note from
the emperor, expreffing his encouragement of any plan to extricate
him from the hands of the vizier and ameer al amra, and appoint-
ing him to the nizamut of all Dekkan. Nizam al Moolk began
his march from Malwa, and intelligence of it foon reached the
brothers, who difpatched Dillawer Ali Khan at the head of a con-
hderable army in purfuit. About this time advices were received

i73

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

of the fuccefs of Abd al Summud Khan, foubahdar of Lahore,
againffc the rebellious Afghauns, who had raifed a dangerous infur-
re&ion in that province.

Nizam al Moolk, having eroded the * Nerbudda, prevailed on
the governor of 1 Afere to put him in poffeflion of that very im-
portant fortrefs, for a large fum of money ; and he was equally for-
tunate in obtaining the citadel of Boorahanpore on the fame terms.
He was alfo joined by his relation Eiwuz Khan, foubahdar of Berar,
a general of reputation, and his whole army. Runna, a Mha-
ratta chief inimical to Raja Sahoo, entered his fervice with two
thoufand horfe, and many zemindars flocked to his flandard; as
did alfo Anwer Khan, governor of Boorahanpore. At this time the
mother of Syef ad Dien Khan, a near relation of the ameer al amra,
who was on the road to Boorahanpore, fearful . of ill ufage, fent
her jewels to Nizam al Moolk, who would not accept them; but
treated her meffenger refpe&fully, and gave her an efcort of two
hundred horfe to conduit her to the army of Dillawer Ali Khan ;
which action procured him great credit. The ameer al amra,
receiving advice of his rapid progrefs, prepared to march in perfon
againft him, though Raja Ruttun Chund and other friends advifed
peace, and that he fhould yield the foubahdary of Dekkan to him,
as a favour from the emperor. About this time advice arrived of
a dangerous tumult having happened in Kafhmeer, between the
muffulmauns- and Hindoos, owing to fome religious difputes, in
which the greateft cruelties were committed on both fides.

This difagreeable intelligence was quickly followed by fome,
Hill more unwelcome to the brothers, of the defeat and death of
Dillawer Ali Khan, with little lofs to Nizam al Moolk, who was
marching rapidly towards Aurungabad. Koottub al Moolk and

the

1 Once the capital of the kingdom of Khandefhe, reduced by Akber. It is
now in poffeflion of Sindia, a Mharatta chief.

J74

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

the ameer al amra now became irrefolute, and diftradted in their
councils ; one time giving out that they would both march with the
emperor to Dekkan ; at another, refolving to offer terms ; and then
again determined on war. The ameer al amra would have taken off
Mahummud Ameen Khan, whom he fufpedted of treachery, but
this the vizier would not allow. Amid thefe alarms, on Friday
the twenty fecond of Ramzaun, occurred at Agra a dreadful earth-
quake. It continued at intervals for many days, during which
numerous buildings were thrown down, and many people killed.
It was accompanied with a rumbling noife in the earth, that filled
the hearts of men with fear, and the fuperftitious regarded it as
the forerunner of downfall to the minifters, who alfo were not
unaffedted with this belief.

In the month of Zeekaud it was refolved, that the emperor,
with Koottub al Moolk, fhould march to Dhely, and the ameer
al amra to Dekkan ; but this plan was delayed, owing to the
jealoufies which the latter had of the Tooraunee nobles, particu-
larly Mahummud Ameen Khan ; who, fufpedting treachery, had
fortified himfelf in his quarters ; but this obftacle was at length
overcome, and a new treaty of friendship concluded.

The fugitives, to the amount of fome thoufands, who had
efcaped from the field on the defeat of Dillawer Ali Khan, joined
themfelves with Aulum Ali Khan at Aurungabad, who had march-
ed from that city with an army of five and twenty thoufand horfe
to oppofe Nizam al Moolk. Twelve thoufand of this force were
Mharattas, whom he detached to harafs the enemy’s army, by lay-
ing wafte the country, and cutting off his fupplies. Nizam al
Moolk, having fent his heavy baggage and women to Afere, be-
gan his march from Boorahanpore, croffed the Poorna with great
expedition, and pitched his camp at Ballapore, where he refolved
to wait and give battle. He was now equally fuccefsful as before ;

Aulum

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

Aulum Ali Khan was defeated and flain, and his death left the
nizam without a rival in Dekkan.

The grief and diforder which the intelligence of this misfortune
occafioned to the brothers, is not to be exprefied, efpecially the
ameer al amra, whofe wives and family were in Dekkan ; but he
was relieved fhortly from his fears for their fafety. The governor
of Dowlutabad, though he had fuffered great injuries from him,
had the generality to admit them into the fortrefs, where he Ihewed
them attention and refpedt. News arrived that Mubariz Khan,
governor of Hyderabad, had joined Nizam al Moolk with feven
thoufand horfe.

After much deliberation, it was agreed that Koottub al Moolk
Ihould remain at Dhely, and the ameer al amra move with the
emperor to Dekkan ; accordingly the former, having taken leave,
proceeded towards the capital, and the imperial army purfued the
route to Dekkan.

The ufurpations of the fyeds had long been regarded with dif-
guft by the nobility, who in general wilhed their deftrudtiori.
Mahummud Ameen Khan, who converfed in the Turkilh language
with the emperor, had gained his alfent to the plans of Nizam al
Moolk, and had refolved if poffible to procure the aflaffination of
the ameer al amra. He communicated his intentions to a Saaudut
Khan, the fojedaur of Biauna, and Hyder Khan. It was agreed
to caft lots who Ihould ftrike the blow, and the chance fell upon
the latter. On the fourth or fifth day’s march from Agra, juft
as the emperor had entered his tents, Mahummud Ameen Khan,
pretending illnefs, took a ludden leave, and communicated the plot
to Hyder Koolli Khan, commander of the royal artillery, who

agreed

a Afterwards navob of Oude, and great grandfather to the prefent vizier,
Afoph ad Dowlah.

175

A. D. 1720.

176

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

agreed to fupport him with all his force. He had before gained
over feveral other chiefs to afllft in defending the emperor and his
friends, fhould the followers of the ameer al amra rife to revenge
his affaflination.

The ameer al amra, having condu&ed the emperor to his
tents, had taken leave, and was proceeding to his own quarter in a
palanquin. He had reached the gate of the *kullaul bar, when
Hyder Khan appeared, holding a petition, and crying aloud for
juftice on Mahummud Ameen Khan. The attendants would have
driven him away, but the ameer al amra commanded them to let
him approach, which he did, and prefented the paper. While he
was engaged in reading it, Hyder Khan drew his dagger and
plunged it into his fide. The ameer al amra ftruck the affaflin a
violent blow with his foot, at the fame inftant crying out, “ Put
the emperor to death.” The fhock of his motion overfet the
palanquin, and he fell dead on the ground. A hundred fwords
were drawn in an inftant, and the daring affaflin was cut in pieces ;
but a band of Moguls who had been placed ready by Mahummud
Ameen Khan, now approaching, difperfed the attendants, and,
cutting off the head of the ameer al amra, carried it to the emperor.

Ghyrut Khan, nephew to the deceafed, refolved to revenge
his death ; and collecting what troops he could in the confuflon,
marched towards the emperor’s encampment ; but Mahummud
Ameen Khan, Saaudut Khan, and other nobles, had placed Ma-
hummud Shaw upon an elephant at the head of their forces, and
drawn out the royal artillery. A fmart fldrmifh however enfued,
in which Ghyrut Khan being killed, the dependants of the ameer
al amra fell into confuflon, and were foon difperfed. His tents
were given up to the plunder of the camp followers, who in an

inftant

a An enclofure of network round the royal tents.

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

177

inflant levelled them with the ground, fet them on fire, and feized
upon the riches they contained.

After this victory, Hyder Koolli Khan fent offers of pardon and
encouragement to Mohukkum Sing, dewan to the ameer al amra,
which he accepted. Ruttun Chund had the fame from Mahum-
mud Ameen Khan; but fearful for his life, he wrote a note to
inform Koottub al Moolk of what had happened, and then trying
to make his efcape, was feized by the populace, who hated him
for his pride and cruelty. After being feverely beaten, he was
carried to Mahummud Ameen Khan, and put in confinement.
Several other dependants alfo fuffered, and many joined the em-
peror’s party on affurances of protection. Mahummud Ameen
Khan was now appointed vizier, with the title of a Eatimaud ad
Dowlah; and Khan Dowraun ameer al amra, with the title of
b Sumfam ad Dowlah. Their relations and dependants were ad-
vanced to honours and high Rations ; and all who had alfifted in
the defence of the emperor were rewarded by the royal favour.
Eatimaud ad Dowlah fent -off the bodies of the ameer al amra,
Ghyrut Khan, and others, his relations flain in the fkirmifh, in
great funeral pomp, to be interred at Ajmere in the tomb of their
anceflors. How forcible do the words of the poet appear, when
we refled: upon the above events ! “ This world, my fon, is not
“ eternal, therefore expeCt not conftancy from its fmiles ; even the
“ power of Solomon pafled away. Happy is he who leaves behind
“ him the reputation of juftice and mercy.” Thefe qualities were
fully poffefled by the ameer al amra. His conduCt to Ferokhfere
and his favourites, was from the necefiity of felf-prefervation ; and
who will not guard his own life and honour at the expenfe of thofe
who feek to deflroy them ? We have never heard of any ftatef-
man willingly refigning them, even among the chofen of God and
Vol. II. Z the

a Reliance of the flate.

h Sword of the ftate.

AURUNGZEBE’s successors.

the prophets. How could fuch eminent perfonages as Koottub al
Moolk and the ameer al amra, fubmit their lives and honours to
Ferokhfere, after the important fervices they had yielded him, to
raife the confequence of fuch wretched favourites as Meer Jumlah
and Rukkun ad Dowlah, who were infamous for their vices ?

Koottub al Moolk was arrived within forty cofs of Dhely \frhen
a camel courier brought him intelligence of his brother’s alfaffin-
ation, in a confufed note from Ruttun Chund. His eyes were
drowned in forrow, and life to him now appeared irkfome. Seeing,
however, no remedy but patience, he refolved to proceed to Dhely
without delay. Some of his friends advifed him to march imme-
diately again!! the emperor, who probably was yet but weak, and
not joined by the troops of the ameer al amra ; but he refufed this
counfel, thinking it hazardous to oppofe Mahummud Shaw, unlels
fupported by a rival from the defcendants of Timur. He thought
it mod prudent to return to the capital, fet another prince on the
throne, drengthen his intered by making friends among the old
nobles refident in the city, and collecting more troops. He accord-
ingly proceeded by forced marches, but in fuch diforder, that the
villagers and banditti plundered his baggage, and fuch perfons as
could not keep up with his main body. One day, the officer who
guarded his advanced tents was cut to pieces with his efcort, and
a conliderable caravan bringing fupplies was plundered in a village,
only three miles from his army. The farmers turned out the
managers of the fyeds’ jaghires, and poflefied themfelves of their
rents and effe&s. Koottub al Moolk had lent an exprefs to his
brother Nudjum ad Dien Ali Khan, governor of Dhely, com-
manding him to place one of the confined princes on the throne,
and endeavour to preferve quiet in the city by contradicting the
report of the aflaffination, and to levy troops.. Nudjum ad Dien,
upon receipt of the order, gave out that Eatimaud ad Dowlah was
killed, and fent a force to furround his houfe, and keep his family

prifoners ;

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

*79

prifoners ; but they found it well guarded by trufty dependants,
who would not fubmit to injury. Notwithftanding his affliction,
Nudjum ad Dien made the ufual proceffion on the aeed of facrifice,
and upon his return from it, fent to offer the throne to the fons of
Jehaundar Shaw, but neither would accept it. He did the fame to
fultan Nekofeer, but he declined it ; when the offer was embraced
by fultan Ibrahim, fon of Ruffeh al Kudder, and grandfon of Shaw
Aulum.

On the eleventh of Zeehudje, fultan Ibrahim afcended the
throne with the ufual ceremonies. He was vilited on the fecond
day after by Koottub al Moolk, who prevailed on the nobility at
the capital to accept offices under him, and advanced them large
fums of money to levy troops. He entertained every perfon who
could bring a horfe and arms, at b eighty rupees per month, with-
out diflinCtion of good or bad, which however occafioned much
difguft to his veterans and thofe who were well mounted. In a few
days he had a promifcuous army of eighty thoufand horfe, but the
greater part ill provided; and it is faid, he advanced more than a
e corore of rupees on this occafion. Many of the nobles of Ferokh-
fere’s reign were employed, and among them Rukkun ad Dowlah.
They received his money, and deferted him almofl immediately.

On the feventeenth of the month Koottub al Moolk accompanied
fultan Ibrahim, in as great pomp as the fhortnefs of preparation
would allow, from Dhely, and pitched his camp near the d Eedgaeh
not far from the city. Here he was joined by Gholaum Ali Khan
and two other chiefs, who had efcaped from the emperor’s camp.
As it was reported that Mahummud Shaw was advancing to the

Z 2 capital

4 A feftival in commemoration of Abraham’s offering his fon.
b About ten pounds fterling.
c A million fterling.

d Place of worfhip on the eeds or feftivals.

A. D. 1720.

i8o

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

capital by the way of Raajepootana, Koottub al Moolk made his
third day’s halt at the tomb of Koottub ad Dien ; but having intel-
ligence of an alteration in the royal route, he moved to Feridabad.
He was joined daily by numerous bands of fyeds from Barreh, feveral
Afghaun chiefs and principal zemindars, alfo by many dependants
of his deceafea brother, who deferted Mahummud Shaw after hav-
ing received fums of money in advance and other favours. Choor-
amun, raja of the Jauts, came to oifer his fervices, and prefented
three elephants and feveral camels, which he had plundered from
A.D. 1721. the imperial army. On the ninth of Mohirrim, Mahummud Shaw
marched from Shawpore, where he had waited feveral days in
hopes of being joined by Abd al Summud Khan and Maharaja Jey
Sing, but they did not arrive. The latter fent his dewan with four
thoufand horfe j and Mahummud Khan Bungufh, with other Rohilla
chiefs and their dependants, joined the royal army.

On the ninth and tenth both armies moved in order of battle,
but did not come to action, though feveral fkirmifhes happened
between detached parties, and Chooramun attempted, but in vain,
to capture the royal magazine and the bullocks of the artillery then
grazing near the camp. Hyder Koolli Khan, a meer atulh, com-
manded Mahummud Shaw’s advanced line, Saaudut Khan and
Mahummud Khan Bungufh the right, and Sumfam ad Dowlah the
left wing. Eatimaud ad Dowlah took poft with the emperor in the
center. Meer Jumlah was entrufted with the baggage of the army,
and Affud Ali Khan protedted the haram. The artillery was Ra-
tioned in the front of the army, and behind it the war elephants
in ftrong armour, with maRy chains to wield with their trunks.

Koottub al Moolk, having marched from Houlfunpore, pitched
his camp within three cofs of the imperial army ; and on the
twelfth formed his order of battle, but in much confuhon, owing

a Commander of artillery.

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

to the irregular difpofitions of the fyeds of Barreh, all eager for pre-
eminence. At length Nudjum ad Dien Ali Khan took the com-
mand of the advanced line, Koottub al Moolk with fultan Ibrahim
took poll in the center, but there was no regular commanders of
the wings. The night of the thirteenth was palled under arms;
and in the morning, Mahummud Shaw having commanded the
head of Ruttun Chund to be Struck off and thrown under his ele-
phant, as a lucky omen, advanced to give battle. A cannonade
was kept up the whole day, when towards evening the advanced
line of the rebels was put to flight and the imperialifts took poffeflion
of their ground, but did not pufh this advantage farther. Koottub
al Moolk at funfet ordered a fmall tent to be pitched for his repofe.
Both armies remained under arms, and the imperial artillery con-
tinued firing all night ; which fo incommoded the enemy, that
many chiefs with their followers fled, and in the morning not more
than feventeen out of an hundred thoufand horfe remained with
Koottub al Moolk. He however was yet undaunted, and at day-
light charged the imperialifts. A bloody and long conflid enfued,
in which the fortune of Mahummud Shaw prevailed. Koottub al
Moolk, deferted by all but a few perfonal attendants, difmounted
from his elephant and fought bravely on foot ; when he was taken
prifoner with his brother Nudjum ad Dien, and carried to the em-
peror. The vidory was now complete, and the baggage of the
vanquished fell into the hands of the conquerors. Sultan Ibrahim,
who had fled from the field, was taken, and remanded to confine-
ment. The news of the vidory reached Dhely in the evening of
the fourteenth, and occafioned joy or grief, according to the hopes
and fears of different interefts. The wellwifhers of the emperor
rejoiced, and thofe of Koottub al Moolk were overwhelmed with
forro v. Of the latter, Several efcaped with their effeds, and
others were thrown into prifon by the cutwal of the city. His
women, covering their afflidions with the veil of patience, would
not fet their feet without the citadel of modefty but Abdoolla

Khan

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

1&2

Khan Kaufee, who had been left to proted: them, extended the
hand of rapine upon their effects, and fled with a great booty to
his own country, rendering his name odiouse and accurfed to pof-
terity. Gholaum Ali Khan, nephew to Koottub al Moolk, and
his adopted fon, Nujjabut Ali Khan, put on difguifes, hoping to
efcape, but they were hopped, and taken prifoners on the road.

Mahummud Shaw, after this decifive and important vidory,
rewarded the fervices of his nobility and army according to their
merits, and prepared to march to Dhely. On the nineteenth he
encamped near the tomb of the holy a Nizam ad Dien, where he
paid his devotions, and conferred his bounties on the attendants and
pilgrims. Here he waited two days for the fortunate inftant to
make his entry into the capital. Hyder Koolli Khan was pro-
moted to the rank of feven thoufand, and entrufted with the care
of Koottub al Moolk. Saaudut Khan was honoured with the b maeh
maurattib, and title of Bahadur Jung. On the twenty fecond the
emperor entered the city in great pomp, upon an elephant moft
fumptuoufly caparifoned, and attended by feveral others in houfings
of embroidery and cloth of gold. Several travelling thrones and
other carriages, richly ornamented with precious ftones, gold, and
enamel, dazzled the eyes of the beholders. The troops of the
houfehold and thofe of the nobility were all newly clothed, and
encreafed the fplendour of the cavalcade. Numbers of beautiful
horfes, in furniture fet with jewels and enamelled, were led in
the proceflion, which was fplendid beyond all defcription. Money
was lcattered in profufion to the populace, whofe acclamations at
the reftoration of the imperial authority reached the heavens. The
emperor arrived in the palace about eight o’clock, where his
mother, Koodfia Begum, and the other princefles firfl: made their

offerings,

* A celebrated faint.

b Certain infignia, the principal of which is a filh.

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

i83

offerings, waving round his head golden bafons filled with jewels,
and gold and lilver coins, which were afterwards diftributed to the
poor. After this ceremony, the nobility and people were per-
mitted to prefent the nuzzers and gifts of congratulation. The
empire now once more enjoyed perfect peace, and the faireft prof-
ped: appeared of a long and glorious reign to Mahummud Shaw.

On the laff day of the month, Abd al Summud Khan came to
pay his refpeds at court from his government of Lahore, and was
received with great favour; alfo Maharaja Jey Sing, and Raja
Gheerdhir, foubahdar of Oude ; at the interceffion of the former of
whom the religious capitation tax was again repealed, much to the
fatisfadion of the Hindoos. An addrefs of congratulation, accom-
panied by an offering, arrived from Nizam al Moolk, who was con-
firmed in the government of Dekkan. A petition, with a large fum
of money, was received from Moorfhud Koolli Khan, navob of Ben-
gal, who was continued in that foubahdary. Zakariah Khan was
appointed governor of Kafhmeer. On the twenty fecond of Rubbi al
Awul, the emperor marched from Dhely on a hunting excurfion,
on which he received intelligence of the dangerous illnefs of Eati-
maud ad Dowlah. This nobleman died on the twenty ninth, after
having enjoyed the office of vizier only twenty two days ; nor was
he regretted by the people, to whom he was oppreffive. Intend-
ing to enlarge his palace, he had difpoffeffed feven hundred fami-
lies in his neighbourhood of their habitations ; which, however,
were reftored upon his deceafe by his fon Kummir ad Dien Khan.
The immenfe wealth Eatimaud ad Dowlah had acquired, from the
confifcations and plunder of the fyeds and their dependants, was
given up by the emperor to his heirs. This contradicts the impu-
tation of avarice, too generally laid againft Mahummud Shaw; for
at this period the royal treafury was very low, the late minifters
having l'poiled it of vaft fums, and even coined into money the
golden and filver rails of the hall of audience. It was the general

ufage.

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

ufage of the princes of the houfe of Timur, to feize the effects of
their deceafed courtiers ; and they confidered it as generous to leave
a fmall part to the heirs. In the cafe of Eatirnaud act Dowlah,
whofe wealth had in fa<ft been plundered from the palace by the
fyeds, the emperor had a right to refume poflefiion j but, in
general, the privilege of confifcation is tyrannical, and dilgraceful
to the royal family ; a cuftom, which no judgment or law can vin-
dicate. How unjuft, that a perfon who had fpent his whole life,
and perhaps facrificed it, in the fervice of his king, Ihould, on
his death-bed, fee his wives and children employed in difperling and
concealing his property, inftead of comforting and alleviating his
cares by fympathy and forrow 1

The death of Eatirnaud ad Dowlah was attributed, by the com- .
mon people, to the effedt of divine judgment, for his condudt to
a celebrated devotee. This man, named Nummood, pretended a
million from heaven to corredt the abufes which had crept into
the muffulmaun religion ; and his fuccefs in making votaries was fo
great, that the minifters were apprehenlive of a dangerous infur-
redtion. Eatirnaud ad Dowlah, during his illnefs, fent guards to
feize his perfon ; but the impoftor had colledted his difciples, and
refclved to defend himfelf ; at the fame time denouncing the ven-
geance of God againft the vizier. The guards, either alarmed by
fuperftition, or the numbers of his followers, returned without at-
tempting to arreft him ; and Eatirnaud ad Dowlah being juft then
feized with the agonies of death, his women, overcome with dread,
were weak enough to fend a melfenger, with a large fum of
money, to appeafe the wrath of Nummood, and to requeft his
prayers for the recovery of their lord. The impoftor, on receiving
the account of his lituation, cried aloud to his companions that he
had ftruck an arrow into the heart of an infidel, wha would not
recover: and Eatirnaud ad Dowlah dying, the belief of Num-

mood’s

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

mood’s apoftlefhip was confirmed among the vulgar more than ever.
He continued in high reputation during his life, but upon his death,
his Tons quarrelling with a confidential fervant, he difclofed the
fcheme of the impofture, and the herefy in great meafure ceafed.

On the twenty fecond of Rubbi al Saunee, Einaiut Oollah Khan
was appointed to exercife the functions of vizier, but without the
title ; the emperor wifhing to confer the poft upon Nizam al Moolk,
who was detained in Dekkan by fome commotions in that country.

The inhabitants of Ajmere and Guzarat having fent complaints
to court of the opprefiive conduct of the deputies of Maharaja
Ajeet Sing, their governor, the emperor removed him from his
employments, and appointed Hyder Koolli Khan to the former,
and Muzzuffir Ali Khan to the latter province. Ajeet Sing, upon
intelligence of his removal, rofe in rebellion, and took pofiefiion of
the town of Ajmere. Here, having aflembled the chief officers
of the province, he produced before them the imperial firmaun,
under the fignature of Mahummud Shaw, conftituting him foubah-
dar of Guzarat and Ajmere during life, which had been impru-
dently given him by the emperor’s mother, on his acceffion to the
throne, in order to enfure his fidelity, fhould the fyeds have medi-
tated the depofal of Mahummud Shaw. He difpatched a copy of
this, with a petition, to the prefence, reprefenting his removal as a
breach of the royal promife, and a difgrace, to refill which he
would hazard his life ; but that if his majefiy would leave him
Ajmere, he would willingly refign Guzarat, and return to his
duty. Upon receipt of the petition, a council was held, and
Sumfam ad Dowlah, ameer al amra, confidering the difordered
Rate of the imperial finances, advifed that Ajeet Sing fhould be
indulged with the province of Guzarat, and Ajmere be entrufled

to a mufl'ulmaun nobleman, as it was nearer the capital, and a
place of great veneration to the faithful. The emperor and Hyder
VoL* 1L A a Koolli

1 86

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

Koolli Khan were for punching the rebel, and Saaudut Khan was
fummoned from Agra to command an army again# him. On his
arrival, preparations were fet on foot, but owing to the disagreements
of the nobles at court, who were unwilling to be under his com-
mand, and the indolence of the emperor, they went on but flowly.
Jn the mean ' time, intelligence arrived that Muzzuffir Ali Khan,
foubahdar of Ajmere, who, unable to proceed to the province
with his fmall force, had halted till he Should be joined by Saaudut
Khan, had been plundered by his troops, long in arrear, was
obliged to fly, and had returned the commiffion of his government
to the prefence. Accounts were alfo received that two of Ajeet
Sing’s fons had plundered feveral of the royal towns, and that the
rich city of “Narnoul had been ravaged by their zemindars.

Sumfam ad Dowlah now refolved to take upon himfelf the
correction of Ajeet Sing, and fent his advanced tents to be pitched
without the city, and Hyder Koolli Khan fwore to affift him with
all his force ; but his ardour foon cooled, on reflection that abfence
from court might prove hurtful to his interefl with the emperor.
He advifed Mahummud Shaw to offer terms to Ajeet Sing, ob-
ferving, that in the prefent ftate of the army victory was doubtful,
and even fhould the rebel be defeated, he would retire to the
mountains, and prolong the war, which would be infupportable
from the lownefs of the royal treafury. The emperor, dilpleafed at
this advice, offered the command to Kummir ad Dien Khan, who
would not accept it, but upon condition of Koottub al Moolk’s
being releafed and detached with him, which was not complied
with. Sumfam ad Dowlah, difgufted at the negleCt of his counfel,
ftaid from court ; upon which Mahummud Shaw made fome con-
ceffions, and put himfelf under his guidance. He pacified Ajeet
Sing by promifes and indulgence. The regulation of affairs was
deferred till the arrival of Nizam al Moolk, whom the emperor

had

* Only one hundred miles from Dhely,

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

187

had invited to court to take upon him the office of vizier. Intel*
ligence was received of an infurredtion of Afghauns in a Pefhawir,
who after an obftinate engagement had defeated and taken prifoner
Khanehzaud Khan, the fon of Sirbullund Khan, governor of the
province.

In the beginning of this year the emperor was married to
Mallakkeh Zummauneh, daughter of Ferokhfere, and the nuptials
were celebrated with great fplendour and rejoicings.

Nizam al Moolk, having fettled the affairs of government in
Dekkan, obeyed the emperor’s fummons to court, and was in-
verted with the robes of the vizarut. He earneftly advifed the
emperor to dedicate his time to the adminiftration of public af-
fairs ; but Mahummud Shaw was too much addicted to pleafure to
hearken to it. Sumfam ad Dowlah, Kummir ad Dien Khan, and
other noblemen, favourites of the emperor, and jealous of the in-
fluence of the new vizier, made it their bufinefs to divert the royal
jnind by diffipated amufements ; till at length Nizam al Moolk,
difgufted at the manners of the court, refigned the exercife of his
office, under pretence of puniffiing Hyder Koolli Khan, who had
rebelled in Guzarat, and obtained leave to march from Dhely.
He left the capital after a few months ftay, much to the fatisfac-
tion of Mahummud Shaw and his favourites, who regarded not
the decline of the empire, while they were left to the enjoyments
of luxury and indolence in the capital.

This year, the foubahdary of Agra was conferred upon Maharaja
Jey Sing ; who had now the fatisfaftion of reducing the fortrefs
of Toone, againrt which he had fpent fo much time and money
in the reign of Ferokhfere. Raja Gheerdhir was appointed go-
vernor of Malwa, and fucceeded in the foubahdary of Oude by

A a 2 Saaudut

3 Dependant on the province of CabuJ.

A. H. 1135.
A. D. 1722.

A. H. 1134..
A. D. J722.

A. H. 1136.
A. D. 1723.

1 88

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

Saaudut Khan, now honoured with the title of a Boorahan at
Moolk.

Nizam al Moolk having entered Guzarat, Hyder Koolli
Khan finding himfelf unable to oppofe him, pretended madnefs,
and retreated with his followers to Dnely, where he remained fome
time in difgrace ; but having requeued to be fent againfl Raja
Ajeet Sing, who fiill refilled the royal authority, he was taken
into favour, and appointed to the government of Ajmere, where
he behaved with great gallantry, and difperfed the rebels. Nizam
al Moolk, after fettling the affairs of Guzarat, left his uncle Hamid
Khan as deputy in that province, and proceeding through Malwa,
which government had been conferred upon him in room pf Ma-
haraja Jey Sing, to eflablifh his authority in that country, returned
to Dhely, but did not remain long. Finding the emperor immerfed
in pleafure, and furrounded by worthlefs favourites, negligent of
affairs, and incapable of a grateful return to his important fervices,
he refolved to repair to his government of Dekkan, where he
A. H. 1137. could be independant. He accordingly left the capital afterafhort
A. D. 1724. ftay> under pretence of a hunting excurfion, and haflened to his
province. The emperor, alarmed at his fudden departure, dif-
patched a firmaun privately to Mubariz Khan, l'oubahdar of
Hyderabad, commanding him to attack Nizam al Moolk, and
promifing him the government of Dekkan if he fucceeded. Mu-
bariz Khan obeyed, was defeated, and flain. Nizam ai Moolk,
after the victory, fent his head to court, with part of his fpoils,
and a petition congratulating his majefly on the defeat of a rebel.
From this period the imperial authority was only nominal in
Dekkan, Nizam al Moolk being in fad; the fovereign, though
oflenfibly the viceroy of Mahummud Shaw, who received no tri-
bute but the offerings cuflomary at feflivals and other particular
occafiops. The emperor removed him from the governments of
* Malwa

a Guide of the Rate.

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

Malwa and Guzarat, appointing Raja Gheerdhir again to the
former, and Sirbullund Knan to the latter province.

Nizam al Moolk, in order to divert the attention of the royal
arms from chaftizing his rebellion, perfuaded his uncle Hamid
Khan, and the Mharatta chiefs Peelajee and Coantoojee, to raife
commotions in Guzarat. Hamid Khan accordingly dn'placed the
imperial officers and the managers of jaghires in the province.
This freSh revolt occalioned much confuiion at Dhely, and Ma-
hummud Shaw was fo enraged at the diffentions among his minif-
ters, none of whom would accept the command of an army againft
the rebels, that he refolved to releafe Koottub al Moolk, and
reStore him to the vizarut ; but was prevented from doing this by
the fudden death of that nobleman, faid to have been from poifon,
given by the contrivance of the perfons jealous of the royal favour
towards him. Upon this event, the emperor offered the province
of Guzarat to Sirbullund Khan, who accepting it was fupplied with
a 3 corore of rupees from the royal treafury to raife troops ; and
at his requeft Nudjum ad Dien Ali Khan, brother to Koottub al
Moolk, was releafed from his confinement and detached with him.

Sirbullund Khan for a time reffored the royal authority in
Guzarat ; but though the Mharattas were unable to cope with him
in a general engagement, they annually laid waSte the country,
which, from their depredations, did not afford fufficient revenue
to pay the royal army ; and Sirbullund Khan, not receiving fup-
plies from the capital, was in the end obliged to diSband part of
his troops, and confent to pay a choute, or fourth part of the
revenues, to the Mharattas, as the price of peace. From this
period the throne of Dhely received no advantage from Guzarat,
which by degrees fell wholly under the power of the Mharattas.
The ameer al amra Sumfam ad Dowlah procured the removal of

Sirbullund

189

3 A million fterling.

190

AURUNGZEBE's SUCCESSORS.

Sirbullund Khan from his government, under pretence of having
difgraced the emperor by fubmitting to the choute, and Abee
Sing, the fon of Raja Ajeet Sing, was appointed to fucceed him;
but, inftead of oppofing, he entered into clofer union with the
Mharattas. Sirbullund Khan, who made fome oppofition to his
fucceffor, was prevented from coming to court, and ordered to
• retire to Agra.

When Nizam al Moolk faw the depraved policy of the court,
the weaknefs of minifters, and their ill treatment of Sirbullund
Khan, his wilhes to excite the Mharattas to fubdue the provinces
of Hindooftan encreafed. He perfuaded Bajeeraow, the general
of Raja Sahoo, to attempt the reduction of Malwa and Guzarat.
Accordingly, Bajeeraow and other chiefs, with a numerous army,
having fnarched againft Raja Gheerdhir and the deputies of Raja
Abee Sing Rhatoree, attacked both foubahs, laying walle many
diftridts. Raja Gheerdhir was not deftitute of courage. He oppofed
Bajeeraow, but, on account of the fmallnefs of his force, applied
for aids to the court ; however, notwithftanding frequent petitions
to the emperor and the ameer al amra, they had no effedt ; and
he dying during the invafion, was fucceeded by Dia Bahadur, his
relation, who continued gallantly to refill the enemy. He wrote
to court, that while he lived he would prevent the Mharattas from
purfuing their conquells, but that if he fell, their attacks would
penetrate the whole empire. Thefe reprefentations had no effedt ;
A. H. 1143. and at length, Dia Bahadur fell in battle, when Mahummud Khan
A.D. 1730. Bungulh was appointed foubahdar of Malwa ; but from the repeat-
ed incurfions of the Mharattas, he had little power, and in the
A.D. 1732. year 1145 was fuperfeded by Raja Jey Sing Sewai. From a fimi-
larity of religion he fupported Bajeeraow, who, at his interceffion
with the ameer al amra, was appointed foubahdar of Malwa, and
that province became in fadt under the dominion of the Mharattas.
Guzarat fell to them alfo from the negledt of Abee Sing, and

much

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

much devaflation occurred in thofe countries, to the great lofs of
the empire. The correction of fuch diforder could only proceed
from the hands of the valiant and the wife ; what then could be
done by the bafe and dilhono arable ? The fubtle fox cannot over-
come the lion, nor is a wooden fword of fervice in the field of
battle. Sumfam ad Dowlah had laid the defence of the empire
and chaflifement of rebels on the foundation of cunning and deceit,
hoping by intrigue to fubdue fuch ftrong enemies as Nizam al
Moolk and Bajeeraow. As fuch fchemes were ill-founded, like
fireworks upon water, they were of no efied, and every plan he
formed, became a caufe of decline to the empire. The minifiers
growing negledful, the power of the rebellious gained ftrength.
The plain of contention, was more extended, and the fources of ruin
and diforder more open. At fuch a time, an emperor was wanting
of refolution and firmnefs, who might have plucked out the weeds
of rebellion with manly oppofition by the roots, and generals, like
Houflein Ali Khan and Zoolfeccar Jung, who would have thrown
the cord upon the necks of the obftinate with the hand of valour.

When the Mharattas had reduced Malwa and Guzarat, with-
out oppofition from the court, they afpired to further conquefts
in the imperial territories ; and, making daily encroachments, by
degrees feized upon feveral diftriCts of the foubahs of Aleabad and
Agra. During thefe invafions, Mahummud Khan Bungulh, fou-
bahdar of Aleabad, having planned the reduction of the a Bone-
delas, of whom Raja Chutterfaul was chief, entered that country
with an army, and took feveral places. Chutterfaul, obferving the
weaknefs of the imperial authority, applied for afiiftance to the
Mharattas, promifing them large fums of money and a fhare of his
territories, as a recompenfe. Mahummud Khan, puffed up by his
eafy conquefls, had kept only what force he judged neceffary to
, . fecure

* Inhabitants of Bundelcund, a confiderable territory in the provinces of
Aleabad and Agra.

192

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

fecure them, and difmiifed the remainder ; but as he was but little
acquainted with the roads, Chutterfaul furrounded him fuddenly
with an army. The navob, unable to combat a fuperior force
long in the field, took refuge in the fortrefs of Jeytghur, where he
was clofely blockaded by the enemy. His provifions were foon
exhaufied, and his followers reduced to eat their oxen, horfes, affes,
and even dogs. He afked aid of the court, but no one attended,
till, at laft, his fon Cairn Jung refolved to relieve him, and his
wife fent her 1 veil among the Afghauns, to excite them to the
deliverance of her hufband. The Afghauns collected, and content-
ing themfelves with fuch pay as the begum of the navob could
afford them, marched under the command of Cairn Jung, and
efcorted Mahummud Khan in fafety from Jeytghur to Aleabad.
The imperial minifters, making a pretence of Mahummud Khan’s
ill fuccefs, removed him from the foubahdary of Aleabad, and
appointed in his room Sirbullund Khan, who deputed his fon
Khanehzad Khan to command, himfelf refiding at court, though
he feldom vifited the emperor, being difgufied with ill ufage.

A. D. 1732. In the year 1145, the emperor being on a hunting excurfion,
received intelligence of the Mharattas plundering in the neigh-
bourhood of Agra ; upon which he marched towards them, but
after a few days, the enemy retreating, he returned to Dhely.

In the following year, the Mharattas having extended their
incurfions into the province of Agra, and feized feveral dilfridts
appropriated to the fupport of the royal houfehold, the ameer al
amra prevailed on Mahummud Shaw to fend an army againfi: them,
under the command of his brother Muzzuffir Khan. The Mha-
rattas, according to cuftorn, would not engage him in the field,
but hovered round, and diftreffed him by cutting off provifions.

a This was to exprefs the difgrace that would attend the tribe, if the honour
of the chief was not fupported by it.

193

M A H U M M U D SHAW.

lie marched as far as Seronje in the province of Malwa, where
he halted for fome months ; during which the enemy kept
him in conflant alarm, by fham attacks, and deflroying his fup-
plies. At length the order of return was ifiued, for which he had
impatiently waited; and on the twentieth of Mohirrim, 1147* he A. D. 1734.
arrived at court, and was honoured with a taffel of jewels for the
turban. Upon his reaching Dhely, the objedt of his hopes, in
fafety, he offered up oblations and charities to the poor, and his
followers gave thankfgivings for the welfare of fuch an exalted
nobleman. His friends uttered loud praifes of the great condudt
fhewn in the campaign, and fet forth his return in fafety as a
prodigy. In this year died prince Ali Tibbar, fon of Azim Shaw.

During this year alfo, the ameer al amra and vizier marched
againfl the Mharattas, but returned to court without effecting any
thing of importance. The enemy continued their plunders and
encroachments every where, with great cruelties.

Arraroo, a zemindar of Korah, taking advantage of the weak-
nefs of the empire, had put to death his governor Jaun Niffar
Khan, brother to the vizier’s wife, and feized his family and trea-
fures ; upon which Azim Oollah Khan was fent to chaflife him,
but the zemindar took refuge in his woods, and eluded his purfuer,
who, tired out, returned to Dhely, leaving his army under the
command of Khowauzim Beg Khan. Arraroo, emboldened by
the navob’s retreat, attacked and flew the deputy ; upon which the
vizier applied for affiftance to Boorahan al Moolk Saaudut Khan,
foubahdar of Oude, for the reduction of the rebel. Boorahan al
Moolk pofTeffed great generality and valour, and in the year 1148 A. D. 1735.
marched againfl Arraroo in his way to Dhely. Arraroo on his
approach refolved to oppofe him ; and having one day intelligence
from fpies that Boorahan al Moolk had juft alighted at his tent,
and that he had on a green veil, and was alfo eafily known from the
Vol. II. B b whitenefs

*94

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

whitenefs and length of his beard, the rebel rufhed fuddenly from
ambufh with his followers. Boorahan al Moolk remounted his
elephant, and drew up his army as well as the fuddennefs of
attack would allow. He had however changed his drefs, and
wore a white veil ; fo that Arraroo miftaking for him Aboo Ter-
raub Khan, a principal chief, who was habited in green, and had
a long white beard, levelled his attack at him, and charging clofe
to his elephant with fome refolute followers, wounded him mortally
with a fpear. This occafioned much diforder j but Boorahan al
Moolk bravely attacked the rebel in turn, who was pointed out
to him by Doorjun Sing, a relation of his own, in the navob’s fer-
vice. Doorjun Sing alfo engaged Arraroo perfonally, and after a
fharp conflict put him to death, upon which the rebels fled in
diforder. Boorahan, having offered up thanks to God for his vic-
tory, returned to his tents, and fent Arraroo’s head to the emperor.
The Ikin of the body was flayed off, and fent fluffed with ftraw to
the vizier. Having remained fome days to regulate the affairs of
the province of Korah, he left the command to his fon in law
Suffder Jung, and purfued his route to court, where he was re-
ceived with great honours.

Soon after this, Eaudgar Khan, a dependant of the ameer al
amra, was difpatched with the funnuds of the foubahdaries of
Guzarat and Malwa to Bajeeraow, hoping to effect his fubmiflion to
the empire, through the mediation of Raja Jey Sing. This year
died navob Roofhun ad Dowlah Zuflir Khan.

About this time the foubahdary of the province of Patna was
taken from Fukhir ad Dowlah, and conferred upon Shujah ad Dow-
lah, the navob of Bengal, in addition to that government, and of
the province of Oriffa.

Shujah

M A HUM MUD SHAW.

Shujah ad Dowlah was a native of Boorahanpore, and defcended
from the Turkifh tribe of Afshar in Khorafaun. During Aurung-
zebe’s campaigns in Dekkan, he married the daughter of Jaffier
Khan, foubahdar of Bengal, and accompanied his father in law to
that province ; but, not agreeing with her in difpofition, he refided
moftly at Cuttac, the capital of Oriffa, of which he was govern-
or. Shujah ad Dowlah was celebrated for his clemency, juftice,
and all good qualities. Zebe al Niffa, begum of Shujah ad Dow-
lah, from duty to her father and refentment at her hufband’s attach-
ment to other women, remained with her fon Alla ad Dowlah
Serferauz Khan at the capital of Moorfhudabad, which was found-
ed by her father, Jaffier Khan, and named after his original title
of Moorfhud Koollee Khan.

It was during the refidence of Shujah ad Dowlah at Cut-
tac, that Aliverdi Khan, afterwards fo famous as the ufurper of
Bengal, entered his fervice. His mother was diftantly related to
that nobleman. Her hufband Mirza Mahummud was an officer
in the fervice of the prince Azim Shaw, upon whofe defeat and
death, being greatly diftreffed, he was perfuaded by his wife to
feek the protection of her noble relation at Cuttac. Shujah ad
Dowlah received him, with his two fons, Hajee Ahmed and Ali-
verdi, with kindnefs and favour among his dependants. Aliverdi,
by his great qualities and important fervices, rofe daily in the
efteem of his patron ; and Hajee Ahmed was alfo much diflinguifh-
ed. By degrees they became the chief managers of all the affairs
of Shujah ad Dowlah j who, fond of pleafure, entrufted the pro-
vince to their direction ; nor was his confidence abufed by the
brothers.

As Jaffier Khan was much difpleafed at the conduCt of his
fon in law, in his inconftancy to his wife, when he perceived him-
felf advancing towards his end, he wifhed to be fucceeded in the

B b 2 govern-

195

96 AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

government of the provinces by his grandfon Alla ad Dowlah Ser-
ferauz Khan at that time a imperial dewan. For this purpofe he
exerted all his influence at the court of Dhely. Shujah ad Dowlah,
learning his intentions, confulted upon difappointing his meafures
with the brothers ; and by their advice fent agents to court to bribe
the minifters to his views. He alfo fecretly difpatched numbers
of his beft troops, under pretence of difmifling them his fervice,
to Moorfhudabad, to form a party in his favour. The rainy feafon
advancing, and marching by land being very difficult, he took care
to provide fufficient boats for his army, that he might move on the
inffant of occaflon.

Accordingly, when advice came that Jafher Khan could not
furvive more than a few days, he began his march, leaving Ma-
hummud Nukkee, his fon by a concubine, in the direction of af-
fairs at Cuttac. When fomewhat advanced, he received the ac-
counts of the navob’s death, and a little farther on his march, the
funnuds, appointing him foubahdar of Bengal from Dhely. He
quickly arrived by forced marches at Moorfhudabad, which he en-
tered without oppofition, and feating himfelf on the mufnud, in the
chehal fettoon, or hall of forty pillars, commanded the royal grants
to be read, and the officers of ftate to acknowledge him as navob.
His fon Alla ad Dowlah Serferauz Khan, finding it in vain to
ftruggie againfl the emperor’s will and his father’s power, was
among the firft to congratulate him upon his acceffion, and con-
tented to remain in the office of dewan. Shujah ad Dowlah,
having thus obtained his wifhes, conducted the affairs of govern-
ment with the advice of Aliverdi Khan, his brother Hajee Ahmed,
Aulum Chund, his own ‘dewan, now appointed roy royan, (who
was among the Hindoos, truly worthy of confidence and power)
and a few others, particularly Juggutt Seet Futteh Chund, whofe
wealth and credit as a merchant and banker exceeded millions,

and

a Under the grant of this office the company now hold. Bengal, &c.

MAHUMMUD SH AW.

1 97

and was never yet equalled by any. In the administration of juftice
he aCted wholly from himfelf, and truSted to the representations of
no one ; but to the utmoSt of his abilities examined every cafe, and
listened patiently to both parties, deciding agreeably to juStice,
without regard to rank or Station. In the time of Jaffier Khan,
the zemindars and renters had been oppreffed with fuch grievances,
as are too horrid to relate. Agreeably to the following verfe of
the poet Saadi ; “ Draw not thy precedents from evil institutions,
“ for men will curfe thee, with thofe who invented them.” Shujah
ad Dowlah upon his acceffion fummoned them before him, and
demanded how they would behave, if he Should free them from
their troubles. They, who had fuffered feverely from the tyranny
of Jaffier Khan, fwore folemnly to be faithful to his perlon, and
juft in their payments, according to the fettlements of Juggutt
Seet. Shujah ad Dowlah then distinguished them by khelauts and
favours according to their ranks, and difimiffed them with joyful
hearts to their Several districts. Bengal, which is called the para-
dife of regions, truly merited the appellation during the administra-
tion of Shujah ad Dowlah ; and perfons of all ranks, living in eafe
and fafety, were loud in his praifes, repofing under the Shade of his
profperity. Not long after his acceffion, the government of the
province of Bahar was added to that of Bengal, the deputation of
which he entrusted to Aliverdi Khan, for whom, on this occasion,
he procured the rank of five thoufand and title of Mahabut Jung.
The favourite acquired new credit in his management of Bahar,
the revenues of which had been embezzled and kept back by
rebellious zemindars and military commanders ; all of whom he
either reduced or put to death.

To preferve the connection of hiSlory, it is proper to return
to the affairs of the imperial court, before we enter further on
thofe of Bengal and the navob Mahabut Jung, which Shall be
feparately treated of.

The

198

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

A.h. H49. The Mharattas, notwithftanding the appointment of Bajeeraow
1 735* to the government of Malwa, and other favours fhewn them by the
emperor, ftill continuing their invafions, and advancing their armies
nearer to the capital, the ameer al amra, Khan Dovvraun, marched
at length with a great army to the vicinity of Agra, and the vizier,
Kummir ad Dien Khan, with a powerful force towards Ajmerej
but inftead of acting on the offenlive, wafted their time in idle ne-
gotiations for peace in ftanding camps, while the enemy plundered
the country around them.

Boorahan al Moolk Saaudut Khan, foubahdar of Oude, pof-
fefted great courage and ability, and was anxious to acquire
fame, by expelling the Mharattas and redeeming the difgrace
of the empire. He marched from his capital, attended by
his fon in law Suffder Jung, to the afliftance of his friend
the raja of Buddawer, a diftridt of the province of Agra, who
was clofely prefted by the enemy in his principal fortrefs.
He could not, however, arrive in time to relieve him. Raow
Mulhar, a principal chief, after reducing the raja to his terms,
crofted the Jumna, and wafted the country without mercy from
Etawa to Mootee Baug, clofe to the city of Agra. At length,
Boorahan al Moolk coming upon him by forced marches, defeated
him with great flaughter. Three principal officers were taken
prifoners, and Mulhar with great difficulty efcaped. The fugitives
in their panic miftaking the paftage of the river Jumna, which they
had forded, were drowned in great numbers ; many were taken
prifoners, and few regained the oppofite fhore. Mulhar with a
few followers reached the camp of Bajeeraow, near Gualior.
Boorahan al Moolk iftiied orders for each of his foldiers to prepare
four days proviftons, and leave his baggage in the camp, intending
to purfue the enemy to their own province, and redeem the honour
of Hindooftan, when he received orders from the ameer al amra
to halt till he could join him with his forces, to adt with more

eftedt

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

199

effedt againffc the invaders. He unwillingly obeyed the mandate.
This gave time to Bajeeraow to recover the panic of Mulhar’s de-
feat ; and he refolved to march towards Dhely, at that time almoft
empty of troops for its defence. So rapid was his progrefs, that
he reached, and burned part of the fuburbs of the capital, before
any intelligence of his movement had gained the city. The
emperor and inhabitants were thrown into the utmoft confter-
nation and defpair. They were not relieved till after three days,
(during which the Mharattas committed great devaftations in the
fuburbs) by the arrival of Boorahan al Moolk and the armies of
the vizier and ameer al amra. The enemy then retreated into
Malwa, but were not purfued ; and the minifliers, to the difgrace and
irreparable lofs of the empire, perfuaded Mahummud Shaw to pur-
chafe an uncertain peace, by confenting to the choute, or payment
of a fourth part of the revenues to the Mharattas. The emperor
would have waited for the concurrence of Nizam al Moolk, whom he
had ordered to court, but the vizier and ameer al amra, jealous of
his interference, concluded the treaty before his arrival. Nizam al
Moolk attempted to recover the province of Malwa from the
Mharattas } but after marching and defeating Bajeeraow, was
obliged to return for the defence of Dhely againfl: the Perlian
emperor. Nadir Shaw, who was advancing rapidly towards it.

Sumfam ad Dowlah Khan Dowraun, ameer al amra, pofiefled
unbounded influence over the mind of the emperor, fo that he
directed all affairs as he thought proper, however impolitic or unad-
vifeable ; an inftance of which has been already difplayed in the
compromife with the Mharattas. With the fame imprudence, he
negledted furnifhing the ufual fupplies of money to the foubahdar of
Cabul, for keeping up the Nations in the paffes and highways on
the confines of the empire in that province ; to which caufe may be
in great meafure attributed the invafion of Nadir Shaw, who would

never.

AURUNGZEBE’s successors.

never, in all probability, have attempted his expedition, had he
not heard of the defencelefs ftate of the frontier. The grand caufe
of the Perfian monarch’s difpleafure againft Hindooftan, was the
protection which the rebellious Afghauns had received in the em-
pire, after their defeat by his arms when regent of Perfia, though
he had fent an ambaffador to Dhely, requeuing Mahummud Shaw
that they might not find refuge in his dominions. Nadir Shaw, on
his acceflion to the throne of Perfia, fent alfo an ambaffador from
himfelf ; but no anfwer was given to his letters, nor the minifter
permitted to return to his mailer. During the fiege of Candahar,
Nadir difpatched a nobleman of high rank, named Mahummud
Khan, to the court of Dhely, to repeat his requeft concerning the
fugitive Afghauns, and to exprefs his difguft at the negleCl fhewn
his embaflies by the emperor of the Moguls. Mahummud Shaw
and his minifters were at a lofs what anfwer to return, and delayed
the difmiffion of the ambaffador, in hopes that he might fail in the
conqueft of Candahar, and be obliged to retreat into Perfia, when
they would avoid the difgrace of acknowledging a ufurper, as
equal in rank with the fovereign of Hindooftan. Thefe repeated
flights, and the efcape from his vengeance which the Afghauns
found in the provinces of Hindooftan, determined Nadir Shaw,
upon the fall of Candahar, to invade the empire. Accordingly,
after that event, he marched to Cabul, the capital of the province
of that name, which he took with little oppofition, and remained
in the vicinity near feven months ; during which time his troops
were employed in deftroying the unfortunate Afghauns. It is pro-
bable he would not have advanced farther, had not a meffenger
and feveral horfemen, whom he had fent from Cabul to Dhely,
been murdered on their route by the inhabitants of Jellalabad.
Upon intelligence of this, he inftantly marciied againft that city,
flaughtered the people without mercy, and purfued his route to
Pefhawir, where Nafir Khan, the foubahdar of Cabul, refided, to

whom

201

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

whom he lent a meffage, fignifying that he Ihould arrive on a cer-
tain day, when, if not oppofed, he would fpare the country, and
receive him into favour. Nafir Khan, however, prepared for
refiftance, was defeated, and taken prifoner ; but, after a few days'
imprifonment, was reinrtated in his government on the part of the
Perlian monarch. From Pffhawir, Nadir Shaw proceeded to La-
hore, the foubahdar of which, Zekariah Khan, after fome little
oppofition in the field, took refuge in the capital, which he fhortly
after furrendered, and was inverted with the command of it by the
conqueror ; who, leaving fome of his troops with him to enfure his
fidelity, marched towards Dhely.

Mahummud Shaw and his minifters had long pretended to
defpife the arms of the victorious Nadir, and to difbelieve the
daily accounts received of his advance. He had indeed taken
the field, but in the fpace of two months marched only four
days’ journey from Dhely to the plain of Karnal ; and here the
fate of the empire was decided. The imperial army encamped on
the banks of the canal of Alimerdan Khan, which fupplied the
city of Dhely with water. Entrenchments were thrown up, and a
numerous artillery linked together with mafiy chains, was planted
round the camp. Nadir Shaw, after the taking of Lahore, fent
frequent melfages to the Mogul camp, deliring the difmiffion of
his ambafladors, but was not obeyed ; for what reafon was never
known. The ameer al amra placed great hopes in the valour of
the Raajepootes but neither Jey Sing, nor any of the great rajas,
obeyed the fummons to the royal ftandard on this occafion, fending
idle excufes for their delay in their feveral diftriCts. Great dread
and confufion prevailed in the camp ; and fo bad was the intelligence
of the approach of the invaders, that it was not known how far
Nadir had advanced, till fome wounded fugitives, from a foraging
party, proclaimed to the affrighted Moguls the certainty of the
Perfians being within a few miles of their entrenchments. A
general apprehenfion and alarm took place, and the emperor waited
Vql. II. C c with

202

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

A. H. ii5r.
-A. D. 1739.

with the utmoft anxiety for the arrival of Boorahan al Moolk Saaudut
Khan, the foubahdar of Oude, upon whofe condudt and valour he
had placed all his hopes of delivery, in the prefent important crifis
of his empire. The wilhed for intelligence of his near approach at
length arrived. On Tuefday the fifteenth of Zeekaud the ameer al
amra went to meet Boorahan al Moolk, about a mile from the
camp ; and having brought him into the imperial prefence, he was
received with the higheft diftindtion, and commanded to encamp
near the divifion of the ameer al amra.

Boorahan al Moolk had juft left the emperor, and repaired to
his ground, when word was brought him that the Perfians had
attacked his baggage, and were committing great daughter j upon
which he immediately remounted his elephant, and lending intel-
ligence of this event to the ameer al amra, with a requeft of his
afliftance, haftened againft the enemy. The ameer al amra com-
municated the meflage to the emperor, who confulted Nizam al
Moolk. He recommended that Boorahan al Moolk Ihould be
recalled within the entrenchments, as the day was far advanced,
and his troops were fatigued with a long march, fo that it would
be moft prudent to delay offering battle to the enemy till the mor-
row. Mahummud Shaw, approving this advice, communicated it
to the ameer al amra ; but he, attributing it to the negledt and
indolence of the nizam, reprefented to the emperor, that as Boora-
han al Moolk had advanced far from the lines, and was moft pro-
bably already engaged with the enemy, not to aflift him, and
voluntarily to give up fuch a deferving nobleman to daughter,
would be againft the dictates of policy, valour, and generality ;
therefore, permitting others to adt as they chofe, he Ihould haften
to fupport him. Having faid this, he advanced from his camp
with his light artillery, and fuch troops as were inclined to follow
him. About a fourth part of the day remained, when he came
within a Ihort diftance of Boorahan al Moolk. Nadir Shaw had

formed

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

203

formed his army in two divifions ; one of which he left for the
protection of his camp, and with the other advanced to the at-
tack ; fubdividing it into three bodies. Two of thefe he detached
to attack each of the ameers, and remained himfelf with the third,
as a referved line, to give afliftance wherever it might be neceflary.
The Perfians advanced with great fury, and in about half an hour
the troops of Hindooftan were thrown into confufion with great
flaughter. The ameer al amra was dangeroufly wounded, and moft
of his principal followers flain. His remaining attendants brought
him back, almoft dead with lofs of blood, to the camp about
nightfall j where, from a want of regularity and order, common
in Hindooftan, his tents, baggage, and treafures had been wholly
plundered by the foldiery and followers, on the fuppofition of his
death •, fo that not a covering remained for his reception. At
length his attendants procured a fmall tent, which they pitched for
him. The vizier, nizam, and chief eunuchs of the emperor, came
to condole with him on his lituation, and learn the circumftances of
his defeat. The dying minifter, with a faint voice, faid, ct I have
ce done my duty, and finilhed my courfe. The future muft be
“ attended to by you : but I earneftly advife, that the emperor
tl may not vifit Nadir Shaw, or let him enter Dhelyj and that
s< you turn back, by any means, this great calamity from this
“ fpot.’* Having faid this, he became fpeechlefs, and continued
fo till he breathed his laft, on the third day following.

Boorahan al Moolk, who had remained on the field of battle,
being deprived of moft of his troops by death, or flight, was at
laft quite furrounded by the Perfians, and incapable of further
refiftance, when he was known by a young foldier, a native of
the fame city with himfelf, who calling to him by name, con-
jured him to fave his own life by becoming his prifoner ; at the
lame time running up to his elephant, and afcending the feat by
the ropes of the ladder. Boorahan al Moolk gladly fubmitted himfelf

C c 2 to

204

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

to the mercy of the enemy, who carried him before Nadir Shaw,
and he was treated with great kindnefs and diftindtion.

For the three following days the Mogul camp prefented a fcene
of confufion not to be defcribed; but, what is extraordinary, it
was not attacked by the Perfians. Boorahan al Moolk, hearing
reports of the death of the ameer al amra, and hoping to fucceed
him in office, had prevailed on Nadir Shaw to offer peace, and
retreat from Hindooftan, on the payment of a two corores of rupees,
and receiving a vifit from the emperor. He accordingly com-
municated thefe conditions to the emperor and Nizam al Moolk,
who were rejoiced beyond meafure, being before overwhelmed
with dread and irrefolution. Mahummud Shaw fent the nizam
without delay to the Perfian camp, where he was received with
great favour by Nadir Shaw, who ratified the treaty j and he
returned exulting to his mailer. The happy tidings of peace fpread
through the camp, and gave new life to the difheartened troops ;
but their joy was but of fhort duration. Nizam al Moolk, am-
bitious of the dignity of ameer al amra, requeffed it in return for
his fervices in the negotiation, and the emperor immediately con-
ferred it upon him, unmindful of the offence it would give to
Boorahan al Moolk. The next day Mahummud Shaw went to
vifit the Perfian monarch, agreeably to his requeft, and was met
near the camp by Nadir’s fon, Nuffer Oollah Mirza, who alighted
from his horfe upon feeing him ; when the emperor was fet down
in his travelling throne, and they embraced each other. The prince
then remounted, and conducted him to his father ; who received
Mahummud Shaw ffanding at the entrance of his tent, embra-
ced him with kindnefs, and leading him to his mufnud, feated
him by him. After fome converfation, and the ufual ceremonies
of prefents and entertainments, Mahummud Shaw returned to his
own camp, where his prefence gave heartfelt joy and affurances

that

a Two millions fterling.

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

205

that peace was fully concluded. Such indeed was the opinion
of the emperor and all his fubjedts ; and juft would it have been,
but for the felfifh difloyalty of a difgufted minifter.

Boorahan al Moolk, learning that the office of ameer al amra had
been given to another, burned with envy and difappointment. In the
fury of his paffions he refolved to be revenged upon the emperor and
his rival. He obferved to Nadir Shaw, that two corores of rupees
were too fmall a compofttion for the wealth of Hindooftan ; that
he, as an individual, could pay fo much ; and that the removal of
Nizam al Moolk, who alone had any ability to relift his arms,
would make the Perlian monarch mafter of the empire without a
blow, when he might march to Dhely, only eighty miles diftant,
and polfefs himfelf of the immenfe treafures of the imperial palace
and the wealthy inhabitants of the capital. The avarice of Nadir
was awakened by this treacherous remonftrance, and he again invited
Nizam al Moolk to his prefence •, who, relying upon the faith of
treaties, haftened without fufpicion to his camp, where he was
commanded to remain, and to prevail upon Mahummud Shaw by
letter to make him another vilit. The nizam now reprefented to
Nadir, that his behaviour was contrary to treaty ; to which the
Perlian replied, that he did not mean to depart from his agreement
or injure the perfon or empire of Mahummud Shaw, but muft
have another interview. The nizam wrote information of this to
his mafter j who, not knowing where to look for fupport in the
ablence of his minifter, came to the camp of Nadir Shaw, attend-
ed only by a few of his favourite domeftics, forbidding many of
the nobility, who were anxious to guard his perfon, to follow him.
Upon his arrival he was ordered by the Perlian monarch to remain
in a tent pitched for his reception, and to fend for his family,
equipage, and the officers of his houfehold ; which he did. At
the fame time orders were fent to the Mogul camp to break up,
and the foldiers to retire where they chofe without moleftation ; but

the

206

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

the vizier, Kummir ad Dien Khan, was fummoned to the prefence.
Boorahan al Moolk, and Thamafp Khan, a confidential nobleman of
Nadir Shaw, were difpatched in front to Dhely, to receive the keys
of that capital and the imperial palaces from the governor ; after
which the conqueror, with his royal captive, proceeded by eafy
marches to that city. The utmofl: dread and confufion prevailed in
the Mogul army after the departure of Mahummud Shaw. In-
dividuals confulted their own fafety by flight, but were plundered
or killed ; many by the Perfian marauders, and others by the huf-
bandmen of the country, who, in time of trouble in Hindooltan,
generally aflume the occupation of robbery.

On the eighth of March, Nadir Shaw reached the gardens of
Shalemar, and permitted Mahummud Shaw to proceed to his palace
in the citadel of Dhely, with his family and domefticks. On the
ninth the conqueror m?de a triumphant entry into the city with his
army, which was encamped on the beach of the Jumna, under the
palace ; but Nadir Shaw took up his refidence within it ; the grand
hall of audience, and feveral other apartments, being prepared for
his reception. Coins had been flxuck at the imperial mint for this
occafion, which were diftributed to the people in the cavalcade*
bearing this infcription in verfe j

“ King over the kings of the world

** Is Nadir, king of kings, and lord of periods.’”

On the tenth died Boorahan al Moolk, of a cancer in his
back, with which he had been long afflicted. It was reported, that
he poifoned himfclf, from the pangs of confcience at his being the
advifer of Nadir’s advancing to Dhely ; but the rumour was not
true,.

The

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

207

The flridtefl: difcipline had been obferved by the Perfians, and
no perfon fufFered from the victors the flighted; outrage ; when, on
the night of the tenth, a fatal tumult arofe, which involved the
inhabitants of Dhely in ruin. It was fuddenly rumoured, that
Nadir Shaw was dead ; by fome, naturally, and by others, that he
had been afiaflinated by a Calmuck woman in the haram, at the
infligation of Mahummud Shaw. The Dhellians too eaflly credited
what they wiflied to be true. They flew to arms, and maflacred
every Perlian they met in the city ; which, during the night, was
a fcene of confuflon and horror. The nobles of Hindooflan, in-
flead of attempting to quell the madnefs of the people, by pro-
claiming that Nadir was Hill alive and fecure in the palace, which
was garrifoned by his troops, remained inactive ; and at fome of
their houfes, the Perflans, who refided in them to protedt their
properties, were treacheroufly murdered. Nadir Shaw, at the
commencement of the tumult, fent out fome officers to perfuade
the people of their error ; but inftead of being Iiftened to, they
were flaughtered. Seeing it in vain to moderate their fury, and
not chufing to hazard his troops in the darknefs of night and the
clofe ftreets of the city, he refolved to let the ftorm fpend itfelf,
and wait for morning to take vengeance on its authors. About a
thoufand Perflans were flain.

Early the next morning, Nadir Shaw iifued from the palace,
attended by his troops, and took pofl: at the college of Rooffiun
ad Dowlah, fltuated in a principal flreet. From hence he dif-
patched bands of foldiers, commanding them to daughter, without
diftindtion of age or fex, the wretched inhabitants of Dhely, in
every avenue where they might find a murdered Perfian. His
orders were obeyed with a favage readinefs. The carnage lafted
from fun-rife till mid-day. About eight thoufand Indians, Moguls,
and Afghauns, were maflacred, and their houfes plundered, by
the Perfians. To add to the horror of the fcene, fires broke out

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

in feveral parts of the city. At twelve o’clock, Kummir ad Dien
Khan prevailed on the conqueror to flop the maffacre, when it
ceafed at once ; fo exad was the difcipline of Nadir Shaw.

It is impoffible to defcribe the mifery of Dhely, during this
and feveral following days, when the flreets flreamed with
human blood, and the bodies of the dead obflruded the paffages.
Thefe were at length piled together in heaps, without diflindion
of rank or religion, and burned in the rubbifh of the ruined
houfes. Several noblemen were put to death by Nadir Shaw,
for being acceffary to the murder of Perfians during the tu-
mult, and among them a fon in law of the vizier, Kummir ad
Dien Khan.

On the fourteenth, NifTar Mahummud Khan was difpatched to
Oude, to demand from Suffder Jung the two corores of rupees,
which had been promifed by Boorahan al Moolk from his pro-
vince. Nadir Shaw this day began his feizure of the imperial
effeds and treafure. 4 Three corores and fifty lacs were found
in the treafury. b A corore and fifty lacs in plate ; c fifteen corores
in jewels ; the celebrated peacock throne, valued at d one corore ;
and feveral other thrones of rich though fmaller value, with the
armory, ellimated at e eleven corores, were feized for his uie ;
alfo five hundred elephants, a great number of horfes, and the
fuperb camp equipage of the emperor.

On the fifteenth, a treaty of peace was drawn up, flipulating,
that the provinces eaflward of the Sind fhould remain to the

emperor

* Three millions, five hundred thoufand pounds fterling.

b One million five hundred thoufand pounds.

c Fifteen millions fterling.

* One million fterling.

e Eleven millions fterling.

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

209

emperor of Hindooftan, and thofe weft of it be ceded to the
crown of Perfta. Thus, Cabul, Tatta, and part of Multaun, were
wrefted from the empire. Nufter Oollah Mirza, Nadir’s fon,
was betrothed to the daughter of Yezdaun Bukfh, fon of prince
Moraud, the fon of the emperor Shaw Jehaun.

On the fixteenth, Jogul Kifhoor, vaqueel of Bengal, was feverely
beaten with fticks, for not expediting the collection of the fine
impofed on the city.

On the feventeenth. Nadir demanded from the vizier 1 two
corores and twelve lacks of rupees ; when the latter pleading in-
ability, he commanded his dewan, Mujilifs Ram, to give in an
account of the property of his mafter and of his own, threatening
him with death if he fhould be guilty of concealment. Three
daughters and feven ladies were feized from the haram of Muz-
zuftir Khan, fon in law to the vizier, and forced into the feraglio
of Nadir Shaw.

On the eighteenth, a contribution was demanded from the nobles
and fervants of the court, bankers, merchants, and artizans, which
was levied with the utmoft feverity. Nizam al Moolk, the vizier,
Sirbullund Khan, and other noblemen, were ordered to collect
two corores and twelve lacks from the citizens, and pay it into
the treafury in ten days, on pain of Nadir’s difpleafure.

On the nineteenth, the collectors of the fine began their exac-
tions. Many perfons put themfelves to death to avoid puniihment,
their property being over-rated in the afleffment. Among thefe
were many officers of rank.

Vol. II. D d On

* Two millions and one hundred and twenty thoufond pounds.

210

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

On the twentieth. Nadir Shaw fent nine Perfian horfes, with
feventy five trays of gold and filver brocade and fcarlet cloth to
Mahummud Shaw, and ordered Saad ad Dien Khan, meer atufti,
to put his own guards as before over the haram and offices of
the emperor.

On the twenty firft, Loottff Ali Khan, topjee baffia, or com-
mander of artillery, by orders of Nadir Shaw, with twelve thou-
fend men, marched out of the city, efcorting the invaluable plunder
of the capital to the gardens of Shalimar. On the twenty fecond
Nadir Shaw’s equipage, among which were all the magnificent
tents taken from the palace, was pitched on the banks of the
Jumna, before the Lahore gate, and a thoufand Perfians of rank,
who had taken up their quarters in the palaces of Khan Dowraun,
Saadulla Khan, &c. marched to Shalimar. Centinels were placed
at the gates of the city, to prevent the Perfians from carrying away
any Hindooftan women. A type of the laft day afflicted the inha-
bitants of this once happy city, from the cruelties of the collectors
of the fine. It was, before, a general mafiacre ; but now, the
murder of individuals. In every chamber and houfe was heard the
cry of affliction. Buflunt Roy, agent of the penfions, killed his
family and himfelf. Khalik Ear Khan itabbed himfelf. Many
took poifon. The a venerable Cauzee al Kuzzaat was difgraced by
ftripes.

In the fame manner all the fervants of the crown, the mer-
chants, bankers, and all fufpeCted of having money, were harfflly
treated ; and many, to avoid torment, courted death by their own
hands. Sleep and reft forfook the city. On the twenty third,
additions were made double and treble to the demands from the
unfortunate officers of the court, and they were beaten and abufed
without mercy. Fojedaur Khan, governor of the environs of the

city.

8 Chief judge.

M A HUM MUD SHAW.

21 £

city, from whom four lacks of rupees were demanded, of which he
had paid one, efcaped from his guards, and arrived at his fort of
Ferokhnuggur, twenty five cofs diftant; where he continued, though
Nadir Shaw invited him back by folemn promifes. He pleaded
old age and inability. The Jauts, under Buddun Sing, rofe in arms
in the vicinity of the city, and attacked the foraging parties of the
Perfians.

On the twenty fourth, a fire broke out in the imperial a ferfii
khaneh, and deftroyed effedts amounting to a corore of rupees.
Nadir Shaw now only waited for the payment of the fine, and the
arrival of Nifiar Mahummud Khan ; after which he refolved to
march immediately, and replace Mahummud Shaw on his throne.

At this time, abounding in difaffers and calamity, the capital
of the empire was become, from her various miferies and troubles,
an emblem of the day of univerfal difiolution. Firft, from the
general mafiacre, and the plunders and excefles of the Perfian
army, the conflagration, and other events, the inhabitants of all
ranks were fo alarmed, that like the affrighted animals of the defart,
they fought refuge in the mofl private and concealed corners from
further infult. Secondly, from the great fcarcity of grain, b two
feer of coarfe rice were fold for a c rupee, and other neceflaries in
proportion. Thirdly, from a peftilential diforder; no morning
pafled that whole crowds in every flreet and lane did not die.
Fourthly, from the exactions which occafioned a deliberate mafiacre.
Unprincipled and unfeeling wretches, ever ready to ufe occafion,
took the various quarters of the city in farm for the collection of
the fine, at the original valuation. In place of ten, they extorted
thirty and forty thoufand rupees. The firft fum was paid to the

D d 2 treafury,

a Repofitory of tents, carpets, canopies, cufhions, beds, &c.
b About four pounds weight.
c Two fhillings and threepence nearly.

212

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

treafury, and the reft embezzled by thefe infernal wretches. It is
probable, four or five corores were thus extorted from the miferable
citizens, who, from the roads being blocked up, had not power to
fly from thefe dreadful calamities, nor a hope of afliftance. Dan-
ufhmund Khan, one of the moft learned men in Perfia, and firft phy-
fician to the conqueror, who had been before this, at the requeft
of Boorahan al Moolk, honoured with the rank of three thoufand,
and now officiated as ambaflador between the emperors ; was, at
the defire of Nadir Shaw, promoted to the rank of feven thoufand
and office of 1 khanfamaun to Maaummud Shaw.

On the thirty firft, Mahummud Ghazee ad Dien Khan, fon of
Nizam al Moolk, brought Meer Nizam ad Dien, fojedaur of the
environs of the city, who had fled to Ferokhnuggur, to an interview
with Nadir Shaw, to whom he prefented an offering of a lack and
fifty thoufand rupees. He was gracioufly received, reeftabliffied in
his office, commanded to bring in fupplies of grain, and invite the
people to the deferted villages. The fame day, at the requeft of
Nizam al Moolk, orders were given by Nadir Shaw to his chief
fecretary to prepare edidts to the governors of the different pro-
vinces and the chiefs of Dekkan, commanding them to obey Ma-
hummud Shaw. Fifteen were accordingly written, and committed
to Nizam al Moolk.

On the firft of April, Raja Mujilifs Ram, dewan to the vizier,
having paid four lacks of rupees, ftabbed himfelf to avoid the tor-
tures ordered to be inflidted upon him to extort an additional fum.
Roy Khoofhal Chund and his fon did the fame. Seetaram, farmer
of fome royal lands and treafurer to the vizier, alfo eight or ten
principal officers, after having given ten, eight, fix, and four lacks of
rupees, on more being demanded, made their efcape from the city.
Jogul Kiffioor, Nagir Mul, Saadooila Khan, and other principal

vaqueels,

8 Steward of the houfehcld.

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

213

vaqueels, were beaten almoft to death to extort money from them.
People of all ranks deferted the city in crowds.

On the third. Nadir Shaw ordered a feizure of the effedts of
many capital merchants, who had not paid the Turns demanded from
them ; in confequence of which rich goods were fold for a fourth
and fifth part of their value.

On the fifth. Nadir Shaw’s feals were taken off the imperial
ftore-rooms and repofitories, and thofe of Mahummud Shaw and
Danufhmund Khan affixed in their room. The fame day firmauns
were fent from Nadir §haw to Raja Jey Sing, Raja Abee Sing,
Juggut Sing, and other rajas of Hindooftan ; alfo to Raja Sahoo,
Bajeeraow, and other Dekkan chiefs, with thefe contents :

“ Between us and our dear brother Mahummud Shaw, in con-
** fideration of the regard and alliances of the two fovereignties, the
“ connections of regard and friendfhip have been renewed ; fo that
we may be efleemed as one foul in two bodies. Now our dear
“ brother has been replaced on the throne of this extenfive em-
“ pire, and we are moving to the conqueft of other regions, it is
“ incumbent that ye, like your forefathers in former times, walk
<e in the path of fubmiffion and obedience to our dear brother, as
u they did to former fovereigns of the houfe of Timur. God
“ forbid it, but if accounts of your rebelling fhould reach our ears,
“ we will blot you out of the pages of the book of creation.”

On the feventh of April, Nadir Shaw fent fome valuable je wels,
a firpeach, and bracelets, to Mahummud Shaw, with a mefiage,
that his march was fixed for the feventeenth of the month, and
defiring, that on the morrow he would vifit him, attended by the
nobility with all the infignia of royalty, that he might give him
fome valuable advice, and take his leave. Accordingly, the next

morning.

214

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

morning, being the eighth of April, Mahummud Shaw, with
imperial pomp, attended by the court, on a travelling throne came
out at the gate of the lion tower, and proceeded to the grand hall
of audience, at the fteps of which Nadir Shaw received him,
and led him to a throne, after which all perfons retired. The
two monarchs remained in private for near an hour. Nizam al
Moolk, the vizier, and other great lords, were then admitted ; to
whom Nadir Shaw fpoke nearly an hour, in terms of advice mingled
with threats. Viands were then diftributed, and dreftes conferred
upon them. Nadir Shaw prefented jewels for a turban, with a
fword fet with jewels, to Mahummud Shaw, who then took leave,
and retired to the lion tower in the fame ftate as before.

On the eleventh, all the Perfians quitted the city, except the
body guards of Nadir Shaw, and encamped near Shalimar. The
fame evening Nuffer Oollah Mirza took leave of Mahummud Shaw.
The foubah of Multaun and four mahals of Yemneenabad were,
at Nadir Shaw’s requeft, granted to Zekariah Khan, in room of
the deceafed Abd al Summud Khan, in addition to the govern-
ment of Punjaab.

On the fourteenth. Nadir Shaw began his retreat from Dhely,
and proceeded by regular marches to his own empire : but as the
events of his route but little concern the hiftory of Hindooftan,
they are not related in thefe pages. It is wonderful, but true, that
the inhabitants of Dhely, at leaf: the debauched, who were by far
the more numerous part, regretted the departure of the Perfians ;
and to this day, the exceftes of their foldiery are topics of humour
in the loofer converfation of all ranks, and form the comic parts
of the drolls or players. The people of Hindooftan at this time
regarded only perfonal fafety and perfonal gratification. Mifery was
difregarded by thofe who efcaped it, and man, centered wholly in
himfelf, felt not for his kind. This felfifhnefs, deftrudtive of public

and

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

215

and private virtue, was univerfal in Hindooftan at the invafion of
Nadir Shaw ; nor have the people become more virtuous fince,
confequently, not more happy, nor more independant.

Upon the retreat of Nadir Shaw, the emperor made fome
changes among the great officers of ftate, and advanced two noble-
men, who had ffiewn much attachment and fidelity to his perfon
during the late troubles, to high rank. One of thefe was Ameer
Khan, fon of the principal favourite of the emperor Aurungzebe,
of the fame name, and the other Izaac Khan, of a middle rank
about the court. Mahummud Shaw, jealous of the power of the
Tooraun nobles, wiffied to remove the vizier Kummir ad Dien
Khan from office. Ameer Khan was pitched upon to fucceed him;
but the emperor was fearful of executing his refolution till the
return of Nizam al Moolk to Dekkan, as he was nearly related
to the vizier, whofe intereft he efpoufed. This event at length
occurred; the nizam being neceffitated to repair to his govern-
ment, where his fon Nafir Jung had begun to affiime independ-
ance. With this defign, he had taken leave of the emperor, and
pitched his encampment near the city, having obtained the de-
putation of his office of ameer al amra for his fon Ghazee ad Dien
Khan, who was alfo fon in law to the vizier. Mahummud Shaw
now privately bellowed the inkftand of the vizarut on Ameer
Khan, who imprudently boafted of the honour he had received.
Kummir ad Dien Khan hearing of this, advifed with the nizam
how to a dl, who recommended him to beg his difmiffion from
court, and accompany him to Dekkan. He accordingly repaired
to the nizam’s camp, from whence he difpatched a petition, ob-
ferving to his majefly, that as he found a change towards him
in the royal behaviour, from the arts of interefted perfons, though
he had been guilty willingly of no crime, he begged permiffion
to retire to Dekkan and refign his office. Mahummud Shaw,
alarmed at the departure of the vizier, (for he poffeffed not fieadi-

nefs

2l6

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

nefs of* refolution,) confalted with Ameer Khan and Izaac Khan
what anfwer to return. The former advifed compliance with the
requell, alluring him, that if he was appointed vizier, he would
take fuch meafures as Ihould fecure his majefty from fuffering
from the refentment of the difcarded minifter. The emperor was
lilent, and difmiffed Ameer Khan ; after whofe departure he con-
jured Izaac Khan by his own head to fpeak his real fentiments.
Izaac Khan, patronized by Ameer Khan, and joined with him in
the late confultations, was at a lofs ; which the emperor obferving,
again entreated him more earneflly. Upon this he replied, that
if he Ihould recommend meafures contrary to thofe of Ameer
Khan, he Ihould forfeit his word, and if he advifed the fame, he
Ihould be inimical to his majefty’s welfare ; therefore begged to
be lilent; but Mahummud Shaw repeated his requells. He then
obferved, that though Ameer Khan was of high rank, and the
fon of a nobleman of Hill higher, and polfelfed courage and much
wit, yet from the loofenefs of his manners, he could not command
proper refpe£l in the important office of vizier ; that his depend-
ants, among whom was himfelf, by his patronage recommended
to his majelly, and raifed to dillindtions, were as yet elleemed
only by the great rajas of Hindoollan as ordinary perfons to
whom they would not fubmit as fuperiors : that, on the contrary,
they regarded with veneration the nizam and vizier, and elleemed
their fervice honourable to themfelves ; therefore, it would not
be advifeable to remove fuch perfonages, for thofe like Ameer
Khan and himfelf. The emperor, upon this, fought to conciliate
the vizier, and communicated his intentions to Ameer Khan ;
who immediately haftened to the nizam, offering conceffions to
him and the vizier. It was agreed, that he Ihould for the pre-
fent, as a proof of his lincerity in relinquilhing his deligns againll
the vizier, retire to his government of Aleabad ; which he did im-
mediately. The vizier returned to court, where harmony was
again eftabliffied, and Izaac Khan became equally the favourite

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

217

of the' minifter, as of Mahummud Shaw. Boorahan al Moolk
was fucceeded in the government of Oude by his fon in law Suff-
der Jung; Zekariah Khan was continued foubahdar of Lahore ; and
Shujah ad Dowlah, navob of Bengal, was fucceeded by his fon
Allah ad Dowlah Serferauz Khan ; who being fhortly after defeated
and flain by Aliverdi Khan, the governor of Patna, the ufurper
feized the provinces of Bengal, Bahar, and Oriffa, and was con-
firmed in them by the imperial grants, for a large pefhcufh and a
promife of remitting the royal revenues to the treafury. Nizam al
Moolk returned to Dekkan, which had fallen into diforder, from
the difaffedtion of the provinces during the invafion of Nadir Shaw,
and the precipitate conduct of his fon Nafir Jung.

Upon the departure of Ameer Khan to Aleabad, Izaac Khan
enjoyed the greateft fhare of the emperor’s confidence ; and as he
did not afpire to the more important offices of hate, the vizier was
not jealous of the favours conferred upon him : but Izaac Khan did
not long furvive his exaltation. Mahummud Shaw was truly af-
flidted at his lofs, and continued his affection for the father to his
children, but particularly to the eldeft fon, Meerza Mahummud,
often faying, that had he not him to fupply the place of the de-
ceafed, he fhould have died of grief for his lofs.

This year the emperor fummoned to court Ameer Khan from A. H. 1*56.
Aleabad, Suffder Jung, foubahdar of Oude, Zekariah Khan, nizam 1743.
of Lahore and Multaun ; alfo the rajas Bukht Sing Rhatoree and
Jey Sing. A mandate was like wife difpatched to Nizam al Moolk ;
but he pleaded in excufe for his difobedience, his great age, though
in fadt he was at the time employed in fecuring the government of
Dekkan to his family. Raja Jey Sing died this year, and three of
his wives with many concubines burned themfelves on his funeral
pile. Ameer Khan and Suffder Jung, on their arrival at court,
were received with the greateft marks of the royal favour. This
Vol. II. E e year *

2l8

AURUNGZEBE's SUCCESSORS.

A. H. 1157.
A. D. 1744,

A. H. 1158.
A. D. 1745.

A. H. 1159.
A* Di 1 746.

year the emperor’s only fon, prince Ahmed, was married to a
daughter of the lineal defendant of Mahabut Khan, fo celebrated
in the reign of aJehaungeer. The foubahdary of Guzarat was
conferred on Fukhir ad Dowlah ; but, after a feeble attempt to
recover it from the Mharattas, he returned to Dhely.

Suffder Jung was hononoured with the poll of meer atulh, or
command of the artillery, and the government of Kalhmeer.

This year the emperor, at the requell of Suffder Jung, march-
ed to reduce b Ali Mahummud Khan, a Rohilla adventurer, who
had from the negligence of government poffeffed himfelf of the
dillridls of 'Kutteer, and affumed independance of the royal
authority. He was befieged in a fortrefs called Bangur, and being
taken prifoner, was committed to the care of the vizier ; after
which the royal army returned to Dhely. Zekariah Khan dying,
the foubahdary of Lahore was conferred on the vizier, who
appointed two fons of the deceafed his deputies ; but the bro-
thers quarrelling with each other, the eldell obtained fuperiority
in the contell, and was confirmed in the government of the pro-
vince, with the title of Shaw-nowauz Khan.

This year was dillinguilhed by no other remarkable events,
than the death of Ameer Khan, and the marriage of Shujah ad
Dowlah, fon of Suffder Jung, to the daughter of the late Izaac

Khan,

a Mahabut Khan feized that emperor’s perfon, and for fome time controuled
the royal authority j but was obliged to retire by the intrigues of the emprefs
Noor Jehaun.

b The founder of the Rohilla government, in the end overthrown by Shujah
ad Dowlah with the afliftance of the Englifli, for having negle&ed to fulfil
the terms of a treaty made with him, when defended by his arms from the
invafions of the Mharattas.

c Now called, from the refidence of the Rohillas, Rohilcund. It is in pof-
fefiion of the navob vizier.

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

219

Khan, the emperor’s favourite. Thefe nuptials were celebrated
with uncommon fplendour. Among the prefents made to the bride,
were one thoufand diver cups, each weighing a one hundred rupees.

Ameer Khan had fince his lad arrival at court conducted the
whole adminiflration ; the vizier being incapable of attending the
durbar, from a hurt occafioned by a fall from a terrace, and con-
tentedly allowing his rival to exercife the influence of his office in
his name, while he enjoyed fecurity and repofe. Suffder Jung, the
only one of the nobility able to oppofe him, was his friend ; fo that
he had no competitor for the royal favour. He was naturally free
of fpeech, and the emperor, fond of his repartee, had allowed him
more licenfe in converfation than was confident with refpedt to his
own dignity. As he acquired power in the date, this freedom
grew to importunity, when he was on bufinefs with the emperor ;
which by degrees difguded Mahummud Shaw, and made him wifh
his removal from office. The royal jealoufy was alfo excited by
Ameer Khan’s paying a vifit to the princes of the blood confined
in the citadel of Seleemgur. The emperor, however, fearing his
power, did not openly fhew any change towards him. At length.
Ameer Khan one day prefling fome requed, which his majefty did
not chufe to grant, he defired him to be filent, and he would hear
him on the fubjecd another day. The minider perfided, and was
three times mildly put off, but dill continued his importunity. At
length, Roze Afzoon Khan, a eunuch, bnazir of the haram, re-
buked him in harfli terms for his difrefpedt to his fovereign ; upon
which Ameer Khan, highly enraged, exclaimed, “ What privilege
“ has a Have to interrupt the converfation of a nobleman ?” The
eunuch replied, “ If I am a flave, I am the flave of his majefly
“ alone, and not of others.” The minider, inflamed with paflion,
now addrefied the emperor, faying, if the eunuch was not removed,

E e 2 he

a Twelve pounds fterling.

b The nazir has the foie direction of the feraglio.

220

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

he would no longer attend the court j and demanded the difpofal
of his office of nazir to one of his own fervants. The emperor con-
fented for the prefent, and the minifter retired ; but Mahummud
Shaw, on consideration, was alarmed for his own fafety, Should
Ameer Khan perlift in claiming poffeffion of the nuzzarut. The
eunuch advifed the affaffination of the minifter, and undertook to
effeCt it, without delay. The emperor affented. A perfon who
had been difcharged from the Service of Ameer Khan, was applied
to by the eunuch, and agreed to perpetrate the murder. A day or
two afterwards the minister attended the durbar, to receive the
inveftiture of the nuzzarut, bringing with him Aggah Khan, a
favourite eunuch, to be appointed his deputy in its immediate
exercife. The afiaffm was placed in the paffage leading to the
chamber of private audience, and coming behind him juft as he
had reached the door, Stabbed him with a dagger fo effectually,
that the unfortunate Ameer Khan fell down dead on the inffant.
His corpSe was. thrown into a palanquin and carried to his own
houfe, where the imperial officers had been already fent to feize
his effects ; but were relifted by the military followers of the de-
ceafed, under pretence that great arrears of pay were due to them,
fatisfaCtion for which they demanded, before they would relinquish
the perfonal eftate; nor would they fuffer the body to be buried.
After four days, Suffder Jung pledging himfelf for the payment of
their demands, if they would give up the corpfe for interment, by
this time in a State of putrefaction, they contented; keeping,
however, the neareft relations of the deceafed in their hands, as a
fecurity for the performance of his promife. After the funeral, the
effects were fold to fatisfy the troops, and the emperor obtained
pofleffion of the jewels and armoury for a a lack of rupees, which
were worth b fifty lacks, if not a greater fum. The jaghire of the
deceafed was given to the daughter of the emperor, and put under
the direction of Nudjum ad Dowlah, fon to the late Izaac Khan.

This

a Twelve thoufand pounds.

b Five hundred thoufand pounds Sterling.

M AHUM MUD SHAW.

221

This year was diftinguilhed by the invafion of Ahmed Abdallee, A. H. 1161
and the death of the emperor Mahummud Shaw. Ahmed was the A. D. 1747
fon of a chief of the Afghatm tribe of Abdal, in the vicinity of the
city of Heraut, and was taken prifoner in his infancy by Nadir Shaw,
who gave him the poll; of a a yeffawul, and by degrees promoted
him to a confiderable command in his army. Upon the affaffina-
tion of that monarch, he had the good fortune to poffefs him-
felf of a confiderable treafure, with which he retired to his
native country, and affirmed the honours of royalty over the Af-
ghauns of his tribe. He then marched again# the fortrefs of Can-
dahar, which fubmitted to his arms; and prevailed upon Nafir
Khan, the foubahdar of Cabul, to acknowledge his authority,
permitting him to continue in office on promifing to pay down five
lacks of rupees. Nafir Khan would have performed his agree-
ment, but the chief inhabitants of the province refilling to con-
tribute the firm, and perfuading him to refill, he withdrew his
allegiance ; upon which Ahmed Abdallee marched again# him.

On his approach the people of Cabul deferted their governor, and
Nafir Khan retired to the city of Pelhawir, where he held out fof
fome time ; but fearful of falling into the hands of Abdal Shaw,
as his provifions were exhaufted, and he had no hopes of a fupply,
he made his efcape towards Dhely, leaving his family and effects
behind him, which, with the fortrefs, fell into the hands of the
befiegers, two days after his departure. During this liege, Shaw-
nowauz Khan, foubahdar of Lahore, offered to join the fortunes
of Ahmed Shaw Abdallee, on condition of being appointed his
vizier, and his propofal was accepted ; but, at the remonftrance of
his uncle Kummir ad Dien Khan, vizier to the emperor Mahum-
mud Shaw, he repented of his treachery ; and when Ahmed
Abdallee, on the fall of Pelhawir, claimed performance of his
engagement, he declined it. The lhaw, being enraged, marched
again# Lahore, which fell into his hands after a Ihort refiftance.

Shaw-

* Mace-bearer.

222

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

Shaw-nowauz Khan made his efcape, with a few attendants, to
Dhely. Emboldened by this fuccefs, and the weaknefs of the empire,
Ahmed Shaw refolved to attempt the conqueft of the capital of Hin-
dooflan ; and in the beginning of this year began his march from
Lahore. Mahummud Shaw, being at this time too much indif-
pofed to take the field, difpatched his only fon, prince Ahmed,
againfl: the enemy, under the condudt of the vizier, Kummir ad
Dien Khan, Suffder Jung, foubahdar of Oude, Eefuree Sing, raja
of Jeypore, and feveral other chiefs, with a great army. They
advanced to the banks of the Suttulludge without meeting the
enemy, who had artfully palfed them and plundered the rich city
of Sirhind, where the heavy baggage of the prince was depofited.
Upon intelligence of this misfortune the prince returned, and upon
his arrival near the enemy threw up entrenchments round his
camp. The Afghaun fhaw did the fame and for fome days feveral
ikirmifhes took place between the two armies. At length, Kummir
ad Dien Khan, the vizier, being killed as he was at his devotions in
his tent by a cannon ball, a panic prevailed in the Mogul army, and
Eeefuree Sing with his Raajepootes fled from the field. Meer
Munnoo, the vizier’s fon, and Suffder Jung, however, difdained
to fly, and by their addrefs reftored order in the camp. The next
day, a magazine of rockets taking fire m the enemy’s camp, num-
bers of the troops were wounded by the expiolion ; and Ahmed
Shaw Abdallee, either difheartened by this lofs, or fatisfied by the
plunder gained at Sirhind, thought proper to retreat towards Cabul,
which he did unmolefted. Mahummuct Shaw being near his end,
upon intelligence of the enemy’s defeat, commanded the prince to
return to Dhely, having firft conferred the government of Lahore
on Meer Munnoo, as a reward for his fer vices. Before the royal
army reached Dhely the emperor expired, aged forty eight years and
fome months, in the thirty firft year of his reign. His death was
concealed for fome days, till the arrival of the prince ; who on the
firft of Jemmaud al Awul was faluted emperor in the garden of

Shalimar j

MAHUMMUD SHAW.

223

Shalimar, and on Friday, the twelfth of the fame month, went in
royal pomp to the great mofque, where the kiiootbah was read, and
coins were ffruck in his name. Mahummud Shaw was buried in
the college of Nizam ad Dien, in a iepulchre he had eredted on

Mahummud Shaw was not deflitute of abilities and judgment,
but had an indolence of difpofition too blameable in a fovereign ; on
which account he was overruled by his minifters, and governed by
his domeftic fervants. He was unable to reftore the empire from
the decline it had fuffered during the reign of Ferokhfere ; and
being very young at his acceffion, and addicted to pleafure, he
negledted publick bufinefs ; fo that diforder encreafed. After the
invafion of Nadir Shaw he became difpirited, and gave himfelf up
to devotion and the fociety of religious men. He was averfe from
oppreflion and fhedding of blood, and the people from him fuffered
no wrong. While he lived, the royal name was refpedtable ; and
by his prudence he fuftained the tottering pillars of the ftate from
falling into total ruin, but could not repair the unwieldy fabric.

Kummir ad Dien Khan, vizier, though negledtful of bufinefs,
and much addidted to women and wine, yet was fo merciful and
generous, that the inhabitants of Dhely ftill remember him with
gratitude, and affedtion, notwithflanding his incapacity for his im-
portant flation.

purpofe

AHMED

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

AHMED SHAW.

AhMED Shaw on his acceffion offered the vizarut to Nizam aj
Moolk ; who excufed himfelf from accepting it, on account of his
great age, being in his hundred and fourth year ; nor did he long
furvive this refufal, dying about a month afterwards in the vicinity
of Boorahanpore, the capital of Khandefhe. He had governed the
Mogul provinces of Dekkan for thirty years, as an independant
prince, except in name, with great ability and fuccefs. He left
behind him fix fons, and was fucceeded in Dekkan by the fecond,
Meer Ahmed Nafir Jung ; the eldeft, Ghazee ad Dien, redding at
Dhely, in the office of ameer al amra. Nizam al Moolk is much
venerated in Hindooftan for his wifdom, policy, generofity, and
learning. An account of his life would form a volume, which
may one day be prefented to the public.

Immediately upon the death of the nizam the vizarut was be-,
flowed on Suffder Jung, who affumed the whole adminiftration of
the imperial authority ; Ahmed Shaw, contrary to the hopes which
had been formed of him, giving himfelf up to pleafure, and paying
no attention to the affairs of government. Suffder Jung’s firft
meafure in office, was to attempt the (expulfion of the Rohillas
from Kutteer, bordering on his province of Oude. He for this
purpofe inftigated Kaium Jung, the navob of Ferokhabad, to de-
clare war againft them, Ali Mahummud their chief being juft
dead, and the country in an unfettled ftate, owing to the minority

AHMED SHAW. 225

of his fons and the ambitious difputes of their guardians. Kaium
Jung complied with the wilhes of the vizier, but was defeated and
llain by the Rohillas.

J l

Difappointed in the conqueft of Kutteer, Suffder Jung refolved
to reap advantage from the death of the deluded Kaium Jupg. He
perfuaded the emperor to march towards Ferokhabad, and confif-
cate his eftates. The widow, children, and mother of the navob,
unable to refill:, fubmitted to his authority and gave up their trea-
fures. The principal fervants of the deceafed were fent prifoners to
Aleabad; but his mother was allowed to keep the city of Ferokh-
abad and twelve fmall diftrifts, for the fupport of the family, as they
had been conferred on it in perpetuity by the emperor Ferokhfere.

The conquered country was committed to the care of the vizier’s
deputy. Raja Nowil Roy. This year, Ahmed Abdallee advanced A. H. 1162.
again as far as Lahore j but being gallantly refilled by Meer Mun- ^•I749»
noo, he thought proper to retreat, on his agreeing to pay him the
revenues of four dillrid:s in that province.

The vizier was fcarcely returned to Dhely, when Ahmed Khan, A. H. 1163.
a brother of the late Kaium Jung, colledled an army of Afghauns, A. D. 1750.
and recovered the territories lately feized from his family, by de-
feating Raja Nowil Roy, who was llain in the adlion. The vizier
was on his march to alfill his deputy, when he received accounts of
his death, and prefied on to revenge it ; but the fortune of Ahmed
Khan prevailed. He, in a general adtion, defeated the vizier, who
fled to Dhely, trembling for the fafety of his province of Oude,
now expofed to the refentment of the enemy.

Ahmed Khan immediately after his victory marched to Ale-
abad, which fortrefs he befieged, and difpatched his fon Mhamood
Khan to feize the city of Lucnow. The vizier fummoned an army
of Mharattas to his afijllance, with which, in two months after his
Vol. II. F f lofs.

226

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

A. H. 1164.
A. D. 1751.

A. H. 1165.

A D. 1751-2.

lofs, he moved from Dhely, recovered his own dominions from
the enemy, and obliged Ahmed Khan, with his allies the other
Rohillas, to take fhelter in the hills. Upon his fubmiliion, Ahmed
Khan was reinflated in the pofteffion of Ferokhabad and a country
producing a revenue of fixteen lacks of rupees ; the reft of the
territories pofTeffed by the late Kaium Jung being divided between
the vizier and the Mharattas. The other Rohillas purchafed their
pardon by the payment of a large contribution. This year was alfo
diflinguifhed by an attempt to recover the foubahdary of Ajmere
from the Raajepootes, who had affumed independance ; but the
imperial general was defeated, and returned in difgrace to Dhely.
The vizier, after his victory, employed himfelf in refettling his
wafted provinces.

This year was diftinguifhed by the death of Nafir Jung, fecond
fon and fucceftor to Nizam al Moolk in Dekkan, by a confpiracy
of his own fervants, aflifted by the French, who furprized his
camp while he was engaged in quelling a rebellion raifed by his
nephew Muzzuffir Jung, who was taken prifoner ; but on the death
of his uncle was placed on the mufnud of Dekkan by the con-
fpirators. This young prince did not long enjoy his dignity, but
was aftaffinated almoft immediately after his acceflion, by the fame
perfpns who had raifed him to power; when Sullabut Jung, third
fon of the old nizam, was placed on the mufnud by the French,
and Raja Ragonaut, dewan to Muzzuffir Jung. Mr. Bully was
created a noble of the empire, and the northern firkaurs granted
in jaghire to his nation.3

This year Ahmed Shaw Abdallee again advanced as far as La-
hore, and was oppofed for four months by Meer Munnoo; who,
however, lofing two of his principal generals, and his troops being
difpirited, was obliged to fubmit. He was received into favour

8 For a detail of thefe events, fee Mr. Orme’s elegant hiflory.

AHMED SHAW.

by the conqueror, who appointed him governor of Lahore and
Multaun under his authority ; and thus were thefe two valuable
provinces torn from their dependance on the defcendants of Timur.
Ahmed Abdallee, during his flay at Lahore, fent an ambaffador
to Dhely, demanding conceffions from the emperor; who, much
alarmed, recalled Suffder Jung to court. The vizier obeyed the
fummons, and repaired to Dhely, with his own army, and his
auxiliary Mharattas ; but Jaweed Khan, the favourite, eunuch,
before his arrival had perfuaded the emperor to purchafe peace by
complying with the demands of the Abdallee monarch, who re-
treated from Lahore to his own dominions. The vizier, offended
at this meafure, declined appearing at court, encamped in the
neighbourhood of Dhely, and informed the emperor that he mud:
devife fome means of paying the Mharattas, whom he had brought
to his affiftance on the promife of a large fum of money. At
this period, fortunately for Ahmed Shaw, Ghazee ad Dien Khan,
elded: fon of the late nizam, efteeming the death of his brother
Nadr Jung, favourable to his claims on the government of Dek-
kan, offered to pay the demands of the Mharattas, if the emperor
would grant him the foubahdary of that country. Ahmed Shaw
readily complied, and Ghazee ad Dien Khan prevailed on the
Mharatta chiefs to accompany him to Dekkan, by payment of a
large fum of money in hand, and promifes of greater favours
when he fhould arrive at his government.

The vizier, Suffder Jung, upon the departure of the Mharattas,
entered Dhely, and attended in his offices at court ; but he was
much difguded at the influence of the eunuch Jaweed Khan over
the emperor, and the difgraceful peace made by the favourite’s
advice with the Abdallee Shaw. He refolved to remove him;
and, for this- purpofe, having invited him to an entertainment,
had him affaffinated by one of his fervants. This a&ion enraged
the emperor againft him, and made him refolve on diiplacing him

F f 2 from

227

228

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

from his perfon and the vizarut ; but fuch was the power of
Suffder Jung, that Ahmed Shaw dared not for the prefent avow
his defigns.

Ghazee ad Dien Khan, with the Mharattas, reached Aurung-
abad, the capital of Dekkan, unmolefted, but died fuddenly, a
few nights after his arrival at the city ; upon which his followers
difperfed, and his body was brought by his domeftics to Dhely.
He left behind him one fon, named Shaab ad Dien, a youth of
extraordinary abilities. By the interest of Suffder Jung, he was
appointed to fucceed his father as ameer al amra, and received the
fame titles of Ghazee ad Dien Khan Bahadur, in addition to his
own. The firft ufe which the young man made of his power, was
to advife the emperor to proceed to extremities in his refentment
againft his patron. Ahmed Shaw, accordingly, removed him from
his office of meer atufh, and expelled his deputy from the palace.
Suffder Jung, unwilling to refift his fovereign, requeffed to be
allowed to retire to his government of Oude ; and the emperor
confenting, he left Dhely, and encamped at a fmall diffance from
it. His friends, however, reprefenting to him the folly of fo
eafily refigning his power, he changed his intention of repairing
to Oude, and refolved to depofe Ahmed Shaw ; for which purpole
he called the Jauts to his affiftance, and throwing off his alle-
giance, fet up a youth as emperor, pretending that he was one of
the royal family who had efcaped from prifon. He befieged Dhely
for fix months, but was bravely refilled by the young ameer al
amra. Both parties at length being tired of the war, Suffder
Jung, on being allowed to keep the provinces of Oude and Ale-
abad, gave up the pretended prince, and retired to his govern-
ment, leaving Ghazee ad Dien Khan in poffeffion of what authority
yet remained to the imperial name, and his office of vizier was
conferred on Intizam ad Dowlah, fon of the late vizier, Kummir
ad Dien Khan.

Upon

AHMED SHAW.

Upon the retreat of Suffder Jung, Ghazee ad Dien Khan,
being joined by an army of Mharattas, which he had invited into
his fervice, marched from Dhely againft the Jaut raja, Soorauje
Mul, who pofiefted the province of Agra. The raja, unable to
keep the field, retired to his ftrongeft fortrefs, which was fur-
rounded ; but the minifter having no battering cannon petitioned
the emperor to fend the royal train from Dhely. By this time
Ahmed Shaw had been alarmed at the ambitious proceedings of
the young ameer al amra, who had behaved towards him with
great haughtinefs, and fhewn little refpedt to the royal authority,
which made him apprehenfive of his own fafety, fhould he ac-
quire the rj^h conqueft of the Jaut territories. Soorauje Mul
had alfo written privately to court, that if the emperor would
march to *Secundra, he would join him with his troops, and free
him from the impending dangers of the treachery of his minifter.
This petition was enforced by the advice of Intizam ad Dowlah,
who enjoyed the chief confidence of the emperor and his mother,
to whofe affedtions he had fucceeded on the death of Jaweed Khan.
Ahmed Shaw refufed the cannon, and marched from Dhely with
a fmall army of houfehold guards, but a cumbrous train of fol-
lowers and baggage, carrying with him all the ladies of the haram,
to Secundra. Ghazee ad Dien, on intelligence of this, detached a
party of Mharattas to impede his progrefs. Thefe plunderers fur-
prized the royal camp at night. Ahmed Shaw, with his mother
and vizier, made their efcape in covered litters to Dhely, with a
few attendants, leaving their unhappy followers to the mercy of
the enemy. On this occafion, all the infignia of royalty, the im-
perial baggage, and many princeftes of the Timur family, (among
whom was the widow of Mahummud Shaw) fell into the hands
of the Mharattas. After the confufion of victory and confequent
plunder, the ladies were releafed, and furnifhed with an efcort
to Dhely.

a A town between Dhely and Agra.

Ghazee

23-0

A. H. 1167.
A. D. 1753.

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

Ghazee ad Dien now returned to Dhely, and afluming the
vizarut from Intizam ad Dowlah, depofed the unfortunate Ahmed
Shaw, who was blinded, and confined with his mother in Se-
leemgur. Yezzeez ad Dien, fon of the late Jehaundar Shaw, was
proclaimed emperor, by the title of Aulumgeer the Second. This
event happened on Sunday, the tenth of Shaubaun, 1 1 67.

This year died Suffder Jung, late vizier, and foubahdar of Oude,
and was fucceeded in his government and eftates by his fon Shujah
ad Dowlah.

AULUMGEER

AULUMGEER THE SECOND.

231

AULUMGEER 2d-

Ghazee ad Dien Khan, upon the eftablifhment of the new
emperor’s adminiftration, marched from Dhely, carrying the pa-
geant monarch with him, intending to wrefl Lahore and Multaun
from the Abdallee conqueror, Meer Munnoo, the governor, being
lately dead, and the confequent confufion of affairs promifing fuc-
cefs to his defigns 3 but a mutiny breaking out in a corps of cavalry,
the officers treacheroufly feized his perfon, and treated him with
great indignity. His other troops were afraid to adt while he was
in the hands of an enemy. The emperor, who was difgufled at
the haughtinefs of his minifter, encouraged the mutineers, and
even offered them a large fum to deliver their prifoner into his
hands In this dangerous crifis, the fortitude and addrefs of
Ghazee did not forfake him. He foothed the difcontented officers
with affurances of paying their arrears and forgetting their difre-
pedt to his perfon. They releafed him 3 and the firft ufe he made
of his freedom was, to order Nujeeb ad Dowlah with his followers
to fall upon the revolted corps. Numbers were flaughtered, and
the reft difperfed. The minifler returned for the prefent to Dhely,
where he placed the weak Aulumgeer under a guard, and then
taking with him the emperor’s eldeft fon, Alee Gohur, renewed
his expedition.

Ghazee ad Dien had been betrothed to the daughter of Meer
Munnoo, and he now made the completion of his efpoufals a

pretence

232

* AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

pretence for marching to Lahore, in order to conceal his defigns
of feizing the government from the widow. Upon his arrival at
Lodiana, he difpatched a fplendid efcort and a letter to her mother,
demanding his bride. She complied with his requell:, and com-
mitted the young lady to the charge of his emilfaries, with her
marriage portion, happy to purchafe fo ealily the protection of
the vizier. While engaged in the feflivities of his nuptials, the
minifter difpatched fuddenly a conliderable force to Lahore, and
the governefs, not fufpeCting treachery, was feized and conducted
with her treafures to the camp of her fon in law, who conferred
the government of the province on Adeena Beg Khan for an
advance of thirty lacks of rupees. Upon the accomplifhment
of this affair he returned to Dhely; but the widow of Meer
Munnoo was not to be appeafed, threatening him with fpeedy
vengeance for her affronts, from Ahmed Shaw Abdallee, her
fovereign. Shortly indeed were her affurances fulfilled; and the
unfortunate fubjeCts of Hindooftan feverely punifhed for the avarice
of the vizier, who, however, by his addrefs efcaped the danger,
which his infidious policy inflicted on the people.

Ahmed Shaw Abdallee immediately on intelligence of the
vizier’s treachery marched from Candahar to Lahore, which was
evacuated on his approach, and purfued his route to Dhely.
Ghazee ad Dien, knowing himfelf incapable of refilling fuch an
enemy, begged forgivenefs of his mother in law, and obtaining
her recommendations to the Shaw, fet out for his camp with a
few attendants. The Afghaun rebuked him feverely for his trea-
cherous conduCl, but confented to pardon him, on promife of
A. H. 1170. a large contribution from Dhely. To the capital the minifter
A. D. 1756. accompanied him, and, like Nadir Shaw, the conqueror took up
his refidence in the citadel. The wretched emperor Aulumgeer,
being incapable of refiftance, affeCted to receive him as a royal
gueft. Dhely was for many days given up to the mercilefs plun-
der

AULUMGEER THE SECOND.

233

der of the foldiery, whofe avarice was infatiable. Such was their
cruelty in gratifying it, that numbers of the unfortunate inhabitants
put themfelves to death, with their women, to efcape difgrace.
A whole month pafled in terror and alarms. The houfe of the
late Kummir ad Dien Khan was plundered, and thofe families
who had been fortunate enough to efcape the rapacity of Nadir
Shaw, were now alfo involved in ruin. Unfatisfied with the
wealth of the capital, Ahmed Shaw marched agamft the Jaut raja,
Soorauje Mul, who poflefied the province of Agra, and difpatch-
ed Ghazee ad Dien Khan, with one of his generals and two
princes of the houfe of Timur, to raife contributions from the
Doaub, or countries lying between the Ganges and Jumna rivers.

Ghazee ad Dien being arrived at Ferokhabad, Ahmed Khan
Bungufh, the foubahdar, purchafed his fafety by a fum of money,
and joined him with his troops -y the minifter intending to purfue
his march into the territories of the young navob of Oude, Shujah
ad Dowlah, who, fufpeCting his defigns, had marched with all
his forces to the frontier of his country, and was joined by the
navob Saadoollah Khan, chief of the Rohilias, an alliance then
fubfilting between them. Ghazee, after trying in vain to de-
tach Saadoollah from his friend, thought it prudent to fufpend
hoftilities, and finally to give over his defigns upon Oude, on
Shujah’s confenting to pay him an offering of five lacks of rupees
for the young princes. He halted however at Ferokhabad, being
unwilling to return to the Afghaun conqueror without the fums
he had promifed him.

Ahmed Shaw Abdallee, who had marched againfl: the raja
Soorauje Mul, after taking Bullumgur, a ffrong fortrefs, and
inflicting a general mafiacre on the unhappy inhabitants of Muttra,
(a city venerated as. holy among the Hindoos, and the refort of
pilgrims from all parts of the empire) was employed in reducing
Vol.. II, G g the

AURUNGZEBE's SUCCESSORS.

the citadel of Agra, which the imperial governor had refufed to
furrenderj when a plague breaking out in his camp obliged
him to think of retreating, left his army fhould be fo reduced,
as to leave him a prey to the refentment of the conquered.
He, accordingly, raifed the liege of Agra, and returned to Dhely,
near which he was met by the wretched Aulumgeer, who en-
treated him not to leave him in the power of his oppreffive
minifter Ghazee ad Dien Khan. At his requeft, Nujeeb ad
Dowlah was appointed ameer al amra, and enjoined to protect
his mafter againft the power of the vizier. At this time, the
two widows of the late Mahummud Shaw, fearful of refiding
longer in Dhely, offered the daughter of that emperor to Ah-
med Shaw, and petitioned for an afylum for themfelves in his
dominions. He accepted the princefs in marriage, and com-
plied with the requeft of the fultanas, who accompanied him
to Candahar, to which he proceeded immediately after the cele-
bration of his nuptials. His fon Timur Shaw, who was mar-
ried at the fame time to a daughter of Aulumgeer was left with
a confiderable force at the city of Lahore.

During thefe calamities in the capital of the empire, Dek-
kan was alfo vexed by revolutions. Monfieur Bully, the French
general, who had obtained the foie influence in the court of
the nizam Sullabut Jung, was governed in his turn by the ad-
vice of Hyder Jung, a native nobleman, who led him as he
pleafed. Mr. Bufly continued to conduct the affairs of Dek-
kan, till, by the intrigues of Nizam Alee, brother to Sullabut
Jung, his counfellor Hyder Jung being affaflinated, and the Englilh,
who had patronized Mahummud Alee Khan in the province of
Arcot, growing powerful, he was obliged to return into the
French territories to the affiftance of his countrymen. Nizam
Alee, being without a rival, depofed his brother, and affumed
the government ; but his power was much curtailed by the Mlia-

rattas.

aulumgeer the second.

rattas, who obliged him to refign a great part of his terri-
tories, and pay a tribute for the remainder. The Englifh, after
a long ftruggle with the French, took Pondicherry, which they
deftroyed, and obtained from the nizam a grant of the jag-
hires which had been given to their competitors in Dekkan. 8

Upon the retreat of Ahmed Shaw Abdallee, Ghazee ad
Dien Khan having prevailed on the navob of Ferokhabad,
Ahmed Khan Bungufb, to join him with his troops, and call-
ed to his affiftance an army of Mharattas under Ragonaut
Raow and Holkar, marched to Dhely. The emperor and Nu-
jeeb ad Dowlah, after a fiege of forty five days, were obliged
to fubmit to the enemy. Nujeeb ad Dowlah, by bribing the
Mharattas, obtained leave to retire to his government; but the
wretched emperor was left in the power of his minifter. Ah-
med Khan was appointed ameer al amra, as a return for his
fervices. Ghazee ad Dien now poflefled uncontrouled what little
of the imperial power remained to the poflefior of Dhely, but his
jealoufy was alarmed by the emperor’s eldeft fon. Alee Gohur,
who had obtained from his father a jaghire in the vicinity of
the capital, and was employed in raifing contributions from it,
for his fupport, at the head of a fmall body of troops. The
vizier obliged the emperor to recall the prince, who returned
to Dhely ; but the artifices of the minifter could not prevail
upon him to enter the citadel, where he knew he fhould be
made a prifoner. Ghazee, enraged at his refiftance, furrounded
his palace, when the prince, by a gallant effort, cut his way
with a very few brave followers through the troops, and made
his efcape to Nujeeb ad Dowlah, who protected him for eight
months ; at the expiration of which he marched to try his
fortune in Bengal, the riavob of which province, Serauje ad

G g 2 Dowlah

8 Thefe events are amply detailed in the works of MefTrs. Orme and Cambridge.

Z3S

AURUNGZE BE’s SUCCESSORS.

Dowlah had been depofed by the affiftance of the Englifh, and
Meer Jaffier Yet up in his room.

Ghazee ad Dien Khan, difappointed in his attacks on the
prince, refolved to execute vengeance on Nujeeb ad Dowlah, his
protestor ; and for this purpofe called in an army of Mharat-
tas, under the chiefs Junko and Duttah Sindia, who invaded his
country, which he defended againft them for fome months, being
affifted by the navob of Oude and the Rohillas ; when the Mha-
rattas, at length, agreed for a fum of money to grant him peace,
being called upon to defend their newly acquired territories in
Lahore, which were threatened with lofs by the approach of
Ahmed Shaw Abdallee. Ghazee ad Dien Khan, apprehenfive
of the refentment of that prince for the indignities Ihewn to
Aulumgeer, and the removal of Nujeeb ad Dowlah from the
poft of ameer al amra conferred upon him by Abdallee, afiaffi-
nated his unhappy fovereign ; and leaving Dnely in poffeifion of
the Mharattas, retired to one of the fcrtrefies of Raja Soorauje
Mul, chief of the Jauts, who gave him protection. a Mohee al
Sunnut, fon of Kaum Bukhfh, and grandion of Aurungzebe,
was feated on the throne, by the title of b Shaw Jehaun, and iri-
fulted with the empty name of emperor.

When Ahmed Shaw Abdallee, left his fon Timur Shaw with
Jehaun Khan at Lahore, that chief thought it prudent to beftow
a confiderable trad of country in farm on Adeena Beg Khan,
the general of the late Meer Munnoo, who was at the head of
a confiderable body of troops. Adeena Beg accepted his offer,
and for fome time remained faithful in his employment ; but,
being at length fufpicious of Jehaun Khan's intentions towards
him, he quitted his office, and retired to the hills with his fol-
lowers, where he excited the Siks to rebellion, and, in con-
junction with them, overran the country between the rivers Ra-

wee

3 Reviver of religion.

b King of the world.

2 37

AULUMGEER THE SECOND.

wee and Suttulludge. Jehaun Khan fent againft him Moraud
Khan, who was defeated, and the Durannies driven from feveral
places. At this time, Ragonaut Raow, Shumfheer Bahadur, and
Holkar, had reached the vicinity of Dhely with an army of Mha-
rattas, to whom Adeena Beg Khan difpatched frequent invita-
tions to invade Lahore, which they accepted. At Sirhind they
were oppofed by the governor, whom they defeated and took
prifoner ; after which they proceeded to Lahore by forced marches.
Jehaun Khan, after fome fkirmifhing, found hirnfelf unequal
to defence againft fuch fuperior numbers, and flying with Timur
Shaw in the greateft hafte, evacuated the country. His retreat
put the victors in poffeffion of the provinces of Lahore and Mul-
taun ; the former of which they conferred upon Adeena Beg Khan,
on his agreeing to pay them annually the fum of 1 feventy five
lacks of rupees, and retreated to Dhely. On the rains approach-
ing, they marched back to Dekkan, but left a body of troops
under Junko, as foubahdar of Ajmere, to protect their con-
quefts.

The next year, Adeena Beg Khan dying, Junko gave the
government of Sirhind to Suddeek Beg Khan, the country be-
tween the rivers to the widow of Adeena Beg Khan, and ap-
pointed Summa, a Mharatta chief, to refide at Lahore as fou-
bahdar, who extended his dependancies as far north as the river
Attok. During thefe events, the Mharatta power had fpread
itfelf in almoft every province of Hindooftan, when Nujeeb ad
Dowlah, the Rohillas, and Shujah ad Dowlah united, to pre-
vent, if poflible, the total overthrow of Mahummedan exiftence
in the empire. Nujeeb ad Dowlah was at this time clofely
blocked up at Sukkertal ; . and though Shujah ad Dowlah had
in fome meafure alfifted him, yet the number of the enemy was
io fuperior, that there was little profpeft of long holding out

againft

a Seven hundred thoufand pounds.

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

againft them. The Hindoo princes alfo were equally opprefled
by the Mharattas ; who, though of the fame faith, only left a
bare maintenance to thofe whom they conquered. Both Mufful-
mauns and Hindoos joined in petitions to Ahmed Shaw, that he
would march and alfume the throne of Dhely, in which they
promifed to fupport him. The Abdallee, enraged at the feizure
of Lahore by the Mharattas, was rejoiced at the invitation, which
allured him that he would only have one enemy to oppofc, and
he refolved to accept it. He advanced without delay acrofs the
Attok, and drove the Mharattas before him to Lahore, which
they evacuated alfo upon his arrival. They were joined in their
flight by Suddeek Beg Khan, the widow of Adeena Beg, and their
other renters ; nor did they flop till they had reached the vicinity
of Dhely. From Lahore, Ahmed Shaw advanced towards Dhely.
Upon intelligence of his approach reaching Duttah Sindia, that
chief raifed the blockade of Nujeeb ad Dowlah’s camp, without
finilhing a negotiation of peace then began, and marched with
an army of eighty thoufand horfe againft Ahmed Shaw. That
prince had crofied the Jumna, on account of the great fcarcity
of provilions in the high road from Lahore, owing to the late
depredations of the Mharattas, who had plundered and laid wafte
the country in their flight, in order to retard his purfuit, and,
perhaps, oblige him to retreat to his own country for want of
fubfiftance. He was foon joined by the chiefs Nujeeb ad Dowlah,
Saadoollah Khan, Hafiz Rhamut, and Doondee Khan, who fup-
plied his army with grain and other neceflaries from their terri-
tories eafl of the Ganges. The Mharattas encamped near Dhely,
and Ahmed Shaw marched to give them battle. For fome days,
the Duranny remained hovering round their camp, and fkir-
milhing only took place between detached parties on either fide.
At length Duttah, diftrefled for provifions, having firfl fent off
his nephew Junko to Dekkan, with a fmall party, determined
to hazard a battle. With his whole army difmounted, he drew

AULUMGEEk THE SECOND.

239

up in front of his camp, inviting the Durannies to adtion. The
challenge was accepted, and a bloody engagement fucceeded, in
which, at laft, Duttah and the greateft part of his troops were
cut to pieces. Ahmed Shaw the fame day, immediately after
the vidtory, haftened in purfuit of Junko, and did not quit it
till he arrived at Narnoul. Here he received intelligence that
Holkar, who was the Mharatta chief in the Jeypore country,
had marched to Soorauje Mul, chief of the Jauts, whom he
endeavoured to prevail upon to join him ; but he alleged in his
excufe for not complying, that he could not fpare troops from
his garrifons, which he muft defend againft the Durannies. Holkar
upon this moved with his own troops to Secundra, a twenty cofs
to the eaftward of Dhely, where the Rohilla chiefs had collected
ftores of grain, and a fupply of money for the Shaw’s army,
hoping to diftrefs him by feizing them ; but the Rohillas had
taken the precaution to move the grain acrofs the Ganges.
The Shaw, upon this intelligence, detached Shaw Puffund Khan
with a body of horfe againft Holkar. In the fpace of twenty
four hours he marched with fifteen thoufand horfe from Nar-
noul to Dhely, the diftance of b feventy cofs, and only remain-
ing a day at that city for refrelhment, crofted the Jumna the
night following, and about dawn arrived at Secundra, where
Holkar was encamped. The Mharatta chief was completely fur-
prized, and had fcarce time to make his efcape quite naked, with
about three hundred followers. The reft of his troyps were
either killed or taken priloners, and a great plunder fell into the
hands of the vidtors. Ahmed Shaw moved from Narnoul to
Dhely and at the approach of the rains crofted the Jumna to
canton at Secundra, for the convenience of being fupplied with
provifions, as the country round Dhely, on the weftern bank

a Forty miles.

b One hundred and forty miles.

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

of the Jumna, had been laid wafte and defolate by his own
and the enemy’s depredations.

t . I - • •' • - t - » ' /W < • ■ rj j . . f ./M .

When intelligence of Duttah Sindia’s defeat and death, the
lofs of Lahore, Dhely, and the overthrow of Holkar, reached
Dekkan, Suddafheo Raow, commonly called Bhaow, nephew to
Ballajee, the pefhwa, and feveral other chiefs of the firft note,
and an army of fepoys, difciplined in the European method,
artillery, and an innumerable hold of cavalry, marciied to regain
their poffefiions in Hindooftan. Upon the arrival of this army
near Agra, Soorauje Mul, the Jaut raja, was prevailed upon by
Mulhar and Holkar, who had taken refuge with him, to vifit
the Bhaow ; and at Muttra, Ghazee ad Dien Khan with a few
followers joined them. %

A. H. 1173. Suddafheo Bhaow, as the rapidity and depth of the Jumna

A. D. 17,59. would not permit him to crofs and attack the Duranny Shaw,
marched to Dhely, which he entered, and immediately com-
menced an affault upon the palace. One attack was made at
the lion baftion, and another at the Dhely gate. Holkar and
Junko endeavoured to force the gate, but in vain. At length,
five hundred men with matchlocks, under Eetul Raow, icaled
the walls near the lion baftion, and forced their way to the doors
of the royal haram. Some Durannies now rufhed from Seleem-
ghur, aryd by a volley laid twelve of the affailants dead ; which
fo alarmed the reft, that they in the greateft diforder turned
their backs, and threw themfelves over the walls. The Mha-
ratta chiefs then retired to the palace of Saadoollah Khan. They
eredted batteries in different places, and Ibrahim Khan Gardee,
who commanded the difciplined fepoys and artillery, brought
three pieces of cannon to bear on the fort from the bank of
the Jumna, with which he battered the lion baftion, the odta-
gonal tower, and the royal haram. Great part of the private
. audience

AULUMGEER THE SECOND.

241

audience hall, and other apartments were damaged, and the
unfortunate confined princes and princeffes thrown into terror
and confufion. For fome days cannonading continued ; at the
end of which, Yacoob Ali Khan, the Duranny governor, find-
ing provifions fall fhort, and feeing that no afliftance could
reach him from Ahmed Shaw, on account of the fulnefs of the
Jumna, propofed to furrender the palace, on condition of being
allowed to march out unmolefted, with his followers and ef-
fects. His offer was complied with ; and, evacuating the fort,
he croffed the Jumna in boats with his garrifon, and proceeded
to the camp of Ahmed Shaw. The Bhaow gave the com-
mand of the garrifon to Naroo Sunker, a bramin of diftindtion.
The Bhaow, though he had the prefumption to afpire at the
empire of Hindooftan, was low and mean in his actions. He
broke down the ceiling of the grand hall of audience, which
was of filver, and melted it for coin. The gold and filver plate
at the tombs of a Nizam ad Dien Ouleah, and thofe at the fe-
pulchres of the emperors, as cenfers, lamps, and candlesticks,
he alfo feizedj and was guilty of every plunder expreffive of a
little mind. He had the imprudence to remain at Dhely, though
the utmoft fcarcity of provifions prevailed, owing to the country
adjacent having been the fcene of war for four years fuccef-
fively. Towards the conclufion of the rains, he marched out
to plunder the little cultivation which had taken place. On
the twenty ninth of Suffir he placed Shaw b Jewan Bukht, fon
of Alee Gohur Shaw Aulum, on the throne, and appoint-
ed Shujah ad Dowlah his vizier, to whom firmauns were fent,
Vol. II. H h in

a A celebrated Mahummedan faint.

b The fame prince, who, in the year 1784, made his efcape from Dhely,
and threw 'imfelf on the protection of Mr. Haftings ; who, by his influence
"with the vizier, obtained for him an allowance of forty thoufand pounds per
annum. On his death a liberal fhare of this penfion was continued to his
women and family, who yet refide at Banaras, under the Englilh protection.

A. H. 1174.
A. D. 1760.

242

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

in hopes that this meafure would breed difiention between him
and Ahmed Shaw Abdallee. Having left Naroo Sunker in
Dhely to command the garrifon, he at length marched with
his army to Gunjeporah, where Abd al Summud Khan, Nuja-
but Khan, and Koottub Khan, with the zemindars of the coun-
try, were flationed to procure grain for the Duranny camp. He
laid fiege to the fort, which fell in a few days, and the chiefs
were all flain in the ftorm.

The Duranny Shaw, immediately upon receiving intelligence
of this event, though the river Jumna was not yet fafely for-
dable, gave orders for march, and fwam with his army acrofs
the river at Pakput near Dhely, though not without the lofs
of many men, who were drowned in the attempt ; which, how-
ever, fo aftonilhed the Bhaow, who had marched to plunder
the town of Sirhind, that he gave up the defign, and returned
with precipitation to Panniput. He had with him one hun-
dred and forty thoufand horfe, commanded by the mod: cele-
brated and veteran Mharatta chiefs, befides his corps of fepoys
and artillery; but, with this great force, not thinking himfelf
equal to engage the Abdallee, he entrenched himfelf on a plain
to the north of Panniput. The Duranny army foon arrived
near him, and Ahmed Shaw fent out parties to prevent grain
from palling to his camp. Daily Ikirmilhes took place be-
tween bodies from both armies. At length, Ahmed Shaw find-
ing that nothing would force the Mharattas from their camp,
refolved upon an afiault. Jehaun Khan, Puflund Khan, and
Nujeeb ad Dowlah, formed the van, and were followed by the
other Indian chiefs. The Mharattas on their approach drew
out at a little diftance in front of their lines. The action be-
gan with much fury at twelve o’clock, and continued doubt-
ful with great daughter till near twilight, when the Rohiila

infantry

AULUMGEER THE SECOND.

243

infantry of Nujeeb ad Dowlah forced their way into the ene-
my’s works, and Bulwunt Raow, a near relation to the Bhaow,
was killed, with a great number of men ; but night coming
on, Ahmed Shaw ordered a retreat, and the ftruggle ceafed.
Famine and licknefs raged in the Mharatta camp, and num-
bers died every day; but they llill held out, in hopes of being
Ihortly fupplied with provifions by Govind Pundit, the chief of
Etawa and Korah, who had been collecting grain and money,,
which he had brought as far as Shawdirruk near Dhely, with
an efcort of ten thoufand horfe, intending to march up on the
fide of the Jumna oppofite the Shaw’s camp, and by degrees
join his friends. Ahmed Shaw had intelligence of his motions,
and fent Atta Beg Duranny, with five thoufand horfe, to inter-
cept him. This chief crofled the Jumna, and in two days by
forced marches reached Shawdirruk, where he furprized and put
to death the deputy of Naroo Sunker, and all his people.
From thence he advanced to Ghazee ad Dien Nuggur, and
cut off a party of the enemy at that place. He then haftened
to Jellallabad, where Govind Pundit had arrived with his con-
voy the fame day. He was completely furprized, and his fol-
lowers moftly fled. Thofe who refilled were cut to pieces,
with himfelf and all his chief officers. The rich convoy, with
the head of Govind Pundit, was condu&ed to Ahmed Shaw ;
who by this ftroke completed the blockade of the Mharatta
camp beyond relief. The enemy’s llation was now rendered in-
tolerable by filth of every kind, numbers dying every day of
famine and ficknefs. The chiefs held a confultation, and agreed,
that as by remaining in entrenchments they mull perilh with
difeafe and hunger, it was better to hazard a battle, and, if
defeated, fly to Dekkan. They marched out of their camp,
and advanced, with their artillery in front, towards the army
of the Shaw, who was prepared for their reception, and per-

H h 2 mitted

244

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

mitted them to move a confiderable diftance from their works.
At length the Afghauns rufhed upon them with fuch fury, as
not to give them time to ufe their cannon. Little refiftance
was made, as the a Bhaow was killed almoft on the onfet,
which had an immediate effedt on his troops, who fell into
confufion. Junko and many other chiefs of note fell, and the
route became general. Ibrahim Khan Gardee with his fepoys
made fome Hand, but were overpowered, and cut to pieces.
The field floated with the blood of the numerous flain. Two
and twenty thoufand men and women were taken prifoners,
and the plunder of the Mharatta camp exceeded all valuation.
A great train of artillery, fifty thoufand horfes, two hundred
thoufand cattle, feveral thoufand camels, and five hundred ele-
phants, formed a part of this vaft capture. But this was not
all the lofs of the enemy; for thofe who had efcaped from
the hands of the Durannies were moftly put to death in the
villages, where they had hoped to find refuge ; and of the
chiefs of any rank, only three, among whom was Holkar Mul-
har, found their way to Dekkan. In that country the in-
telligence of the defeat fpread an univerfal confirmation, and
threw the Mharatta fiates into a confufion, from which, had the
princes of Hindooftan followed the blow by a unity of adtion
among themfelves, they never could have recovered. But the
nobles of Hindoofian had no l'ooner rid themfelves of this
general enemy, than their animofities revived againft each other.
The Duranny Shaw after his victory marched to Dhely, where
he continued fome months. Before his departure, he acknow-
ledged Shaw Aulum as emperor of Hindooftan, and com-
manded

a Several pretenders have Cnee ftarted up, calling themfelves the Bhaow.
In 1779 one appeared at Banaras, and began to levy troops and raife difturb-
ances in the city ; upon which he was feized, and confined in the Englilh
garrifon of Chunar, from whence he was releafed by Mr. Mailings in 1782.

AULUMGEER THE SECOND.

manded Shujah ad Dowlah and the other chiefs to fubmit to
his authority. Sultan Jewan Bukht was continued on the
throne as regent, till his father, then in Bengal, Ihould re-
turn to Dhely; and Nujeeb ad Dowlah was entrufted with
the care of the city and protection of the royal family.

SHAW

v •

246

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

A. H. *175.
A. D. 1761.

SHAW AULUM 2d-

ShUJAH ad Dowlah having received the khelaut of the
vizarut from Shaw Aulum, who was on his march from Patna,
where he had been acknowledged by the aEnglifh, and the
navob Meer Caufim Khan, haftened to receive him on the
confines of his province, at the river Carumnafia. From thence
the emperor and vizier marched into Bondelcund, and feized
feveral diftriCts from the Mharattas, not yet recovered from
their late defeat. At the conclulion of this campaign, Meer
Caufim having been expelled from Bengal by the Englifh,
threw himfelf on the protection of the vizier, who agreed to
afliffc him in the recovery of his territories, when the events
followed which are related in the account of the affairs of
Bengal, following this hiftory.

Nujeeb-ad Dowlah, on the departure of Ahmed Shaw Ab-
dallee, being in pofTeffion of Dhely, was fhortly after attacked
by Soorauje Mul, raja of the Jauts, who had already extended
his authority over the capital of Agra and its dependancies ; but
the raja being flain, as he was imprudently riding out with a
thin attendance too near the enemy’s line, his army fled, and the
ameer al amra obtained an almofl bloodlefs victory. He was
however fhortly after attacked by Jowahir Mul, the fon and fuc-

ceffor

a A particular account of this, and other tranfa&ions of Shaw Aulum in
Bengal, will be feen in the hiftory of that province, in this volume.

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

2 47

ceflbr of Soorauje Mul, when Dhely Suffered the hardfhips of a
fiege for forty two days ; at the expiration of which, Nujeeb ad
Dowlah obtained a peace by making fome conceffions to the young
raja. From this time he governed Dhely, and the few diftriCts
yet in poffeflion of the royal family, with moderation and juftice,
till his death ; when he was fucceeded in his dominions by his
fon Zabtah Khan, who continued to protect the royal family ; the
emperor Shaw Aulum refiding at Aleabad, with the Englifh.

Shaw Aulum at length growing weary of his retirement at A. H. 1185.
Aleabad, and finding, after repeated applications, that he could A. D.1771,
not obtain the affiflance of the Englifh to put him in pofTeflion
of Dhely, over which he had only a nominal authority, or to
extend his real power beyond the limits of the two fmall pro-
vinces of Aleabad and Korah, refolved to quit their protection,
and call in the Mharattas to efcort him to the capital of the
empire, near which a confiderable army was encamped. To this
refolution he was urged on by Hufham ad Dowlah, his favourite,
who hoped to acquire the foie adminiflration of the royal affairs,
fhould the emperor leave Aleabad, where his power was con-
trouled by Moneer ad Dowlah, an old minifler, who enjoyed the
confidence and fupport of the Englifh, and with juftice, as a re-
fpeCtable character, the favourite being a weak man, and known
chiefly as the pander of the loofer pleafures of his royal matter.

The vizier, Shujah ad Dowlah, though apparently againft the
meafure, yet privately encouraged Hufham ad Dowlah to perfuade
the emperor to march, and even gave him a fum of money, as
a proof of his friendship ; for he regarded the prefence of Shaw
Aulum with the Englifh, as a bar to the fuccefs of plans in which
he required their afliftance. Moneer ad Dowlah, who was well
acquainted with the character of the Mharattas, and forefaw that
his mafter would in the end fall a prey to their treachery, en-
deavoured, but in vain, to perfuade him againft giving up the

com-

AURUNGZEBE's SUCCESSORS.

comfortable alylum of Aleabad, and the folid revenue he enjoy-
ed from the Engliffi protection, for the acquifition of a defolated
capital. The preiidency of Calcutta alfo remonftrated ; but Shaw
Aulum was determined. He marched from Aleabad, and was
accompanied as far as the frontiers of Korah by the vizier and
Sir Robert Barker, commander in chief of the Engliffi forces.
The latter, at taking leave, renewed his advice that his Majefty
would remain with his nation; but Shaw Aulum was impatient
to fee himfelf enthroned in the palace of his anceftors. He moved
onwards to Ferokhabad, the navob of which, Ahmed Khan Bun-
guffi, being lately dead, his eftates and effects, according to the
ufage of the empire, had reverted to the crown. His fon and
fucceffor, Muzzuffir Jung, on the payment of five lacks of rupees,
as a compofition for the royal demand, was confirmed in the pof-
feflions of his father. Shaw Aulum now had a refpeCtable trea-
fury, having made confiderable favings from the revenue paid him
by the Engliffi, and alfo obtained an advance of twenty two lacks
of rupees for drafts on the Bengal tribute for the enfuing year,
from the vizier and Moneer ad Dowlah. His army, though fmall,
was well appointed ; and he had two battalions of fepoys, which
had been difciplined by a Engliffi officers.

After

a The officers were removed on the march of Shaw Aulum. Different opini-
ons have prevailed on the policy or impolicy of the Englifh not joining the
emperor. Had they accompanied him with a brigade, their conqueds would
doubtlefs have been fplendid ; but to preferve them they mud have inevitably
taken the lead in all public affairs T o fome native nobles changes mud have
occurred from that very circumftance, and the council of Eengal knew they would
have been loudly reprefented to our countrymen as ads of barbarity in the ftig-
matized fervants of the company. My countrymen, compare impartially our con-
dud in the affairs of Bengal, with that of the native vidors; and let the preju-
dices excited by intereded, abufive, and, perhaps, envious eloquence, give place to
the proper feelings of F nglifhmen, on difcovering that the honour of our country
has not been jellied by Englilhmen in India. At home, you have feen falfe
patriots daily. Believe me, we are not fo treacherous in India. Poderity will
do us judice. W c */<• ^

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

249

After a ftay of nearly two months in the vicinity of Ferok-
habad, the emperor moved to Nubby Gunge, twenty five cofs
nearer Dhely ; where he was joined by Sindia, a Mharatta
chief, who came to fettle the terms of fervice, and to efcort
him to the camp of his principal Biffajee, then encamped near
Dhely. Moneer ad Dowlah had been left in charge of the
provinces of Aleabad and Korahj fo that Hufham ad Dowlah
had now attained his wifhed for office of adting minifler. He
agreed to pay the Mharattas ten lacks of rupees, when the
emperor fhould be put in poffeffion of Dhely ; but they infilled
upon the fum in advance ; which, after much negotiation was
given them, and they performed the conditions. About the lat-
ter end of December 1 771, Shaw Aulum made his entry into
Dhely, and received the congratulations of his family, and the
inhabitants of the ancient capital of Hindooflan.

The emperor’s flay in Dhely was but fhort. He had re-
folved on the ruin of Zabtah Khan, for which many reafons
are affigned. He had, it was faid, been deficient in refpedt
to the royal authority while Shaw Aulum refided at Alea-
bad ; and it was alfo whifpered, that during his command in
the palace of Dhely, he had abufed his trufl, by corrupting
the ladies of the haram, particularly the princefs Khieroonifia,
the emperor’s filler ; a condudl certainly deferving the royal dif-
pleafure. Whatever were the caufes, Shaw Aulum had deter-
mined to feize his territories, and the Mharattas readily agreed
to affifl him, not only from the hope of plunder, but of gra-
tifying their revenge for the Ioffes they had fuffered from
Nujeeb ad Dowlah ; to whofe courage the vidtory of Shaw
Ahmed Abdallee at Panniput had been greatly owing.

Shaw Aulum marched again in January 1772, not more
than twenty days after his arrival at Dhely, with an army of
Vol. II. I i ninety

2 5°

AURUNGZEBE’s successors.

ninety thoufand men, chiefly Mharatta cavalry, and without
delay entered the dillri&s of Zabtah Khan; who, unable to
refill fuch a force in the field, evacuated his capital of Ghofe
Ghur, which was plundered, and fled acrofs the Ganges, hoping
to defend his territories on the ealtcrn bank of that river,
which he trufted would impede the royal progrefs. He Rationed
troops at the different fords ; but this flep weakened his
main body, and was the caufe of his deflruCtion. Nujeef Khan
gallantly eroded the river, and difperfed the troops at one of
the flations, when he was followed by the chief part of the
Mharatta army ; after which Zabtah Khan made but little re-
finance. He fled to Pattergur, where he had depofited his
women and treafures, but was fo clofely purfued, that he had
not time to remove them. This place furrendered after a few
days’ fiege, and his family and effects fell into the hands of
the enemy ; but Zabtah Khan, with a few attendants, made
his efcape to the camp of the vizier, Shujah ad Dowlah, who
was advanced to Shawabad, the frontier city of his dominions,
to watch the motions of the Mharattas, attended alfo by Sir
Robert Barker, with four battalions of lepoys, and fome officers
appointed to difeipline the vizier’s regular battalions. The firfl
brigade, under Colonel Champion, had alfo marched as far as
Banaras, to be ready to join the vizier in cafe of neceffity.
The dry feafon was fpent by the royal army in reducing the
remainder of Zabtah Khan’s pofleffions and part of Rohiicund,
the chiefs of which fled for refuge to the hills adjacent, and
the principal one, Hafiz Rhamut, repaired to the camp of Shu-
jah ad Dowlah to purchafe his protection.

At the approach of the rains, the Mharattas prefled the
emperor to canton at Burrelly, the capital of Hafiz Rhamut’s
country, promifing, at the conclufion, to reduce all Rohiicund
to the royal authority, and even to attack Shujah ad Dowlah

and

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

251

and the Englilh ; but Shaw Aulum abfolutely declined moleft-
ing the vizier or his allies, and inlifted on returning to Dhely;
to which, much againft their wills, they at length confented.

This campaign ended very little to the fatisfadion of the
emperor, for the Mharattas paid him but little refped, and
allowed him fcarce any lhare of the plunder or territory ac-
quired by the war. They alfo reftored to Zabtah Khan his
women and children, for a ranfom of a lack and half of ru-
pees, which was generoufly advanced him by Shujah ad Dowlah.

Shaw Aulum, upon his return to Dhely, rewarded the fer-
vices of his general Nujeef Khan, by the gift of fome diftrids
which had been abandoned by Zabtah Khan ; and eftablilhed
other chiefs in Sarungpore and other pergunnahs taken in the
campaign, which had been left to the royal difpofal by the
Mharattas, who paffed the rainy feafon in the province of Agra,
in endeavouring to reduce the Jauts to pay them the choute
tribute.

At the conclufion of the rains, the affairs of the emperor
affumed a gloomy afped. His treacherous allies, the Mharattas,
whole only objed was prefent gain, having drained Shaw
Aulum’s treafury, agreed, for a fum of money, to relfore to
Zabtah Khan the country, for which they had been amply paid
by the fovereign, and to give back to the Jauts fome diftrids
which had been refigned to the emperor on his firfl; arrival at
Dhely. They infolently iffued their orders to the royal officers
to evacuate their ftations, and they were obliged to fubmit to
fuperior force ; fo that in a few weeks the unhappy Shaw
Aulum found himfelf without any territory but the ruined
capital of Dhely, all befides being fold back into thofe very
hands which had held them previous to his connedions with the

I i 2 Mharattas

*52

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

Mharattas. The unhappy monarch now experienced, not only
lofs of territory, but perfonal indignity from his own troops j
who, expelled from the diftridts on which they had align-
ments for their pay, crowded to Dhely, and began to be cla-
morous for their arrears. The emperor had expended his ready
money on the Mharattas, the caufers of his diftrefs. The
minifter, Hufham ad Dowlah, inllead of attempting meafures
to alleviate the fufferings of his mailer, endeavoured to turn
them to his own advantage, by making them the inllrument
of ruining Nujeef Khan, of whofe growing favour at court he
was become jealous. The royal troops were mollly difbanded,
on pretence that there was no money to pay them, and Nu-
jeef Khan’s corps among the rell. The Mharattas were pri-
vately invited by the minifter to Dhely. Nujeef Khan, how-
ever, was fo beloved by his people, who regarded him as of
fortunate aufipices, that they would not leave him, trulling to
happier times for a reward ; and many of the chiefs difmilfed
by the minifter embraced his fortunes. Nujeef Khan in vain
endeavoured to perfuade the emperor to dilburfe money from
his privy purfe, and levy troops to prevent the Mharattas from
entering Dhely, as the only means to avert his ruin ; but Shaw
Aulum, having fo recently experienced treachery, would not
confide in him, and rel'olved to truft to chance for the decifion
of his fate. He was at the fame time inclined to hope, from
the perfuafions of Hufham ad Dowlah, that the march of the
Mharattas was not with offenfive defigns to the royal power.

At length, the Mharatta army, with the Jauts and Rohil-
las under Zabtah Khan, arrived near Dhely, and Shaw Aulum,
when too late, repented of his negledt of Nujeef Khan; who
was now requefted to endeavour to fave the city. Negotiation
was in vain, as the enemy demanded the controul of the em-
peror’s perfon and the garrifon of the palace. Nujeef Khan re-

folved

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

253

folved to oppofe them. Of the royal troops there only remained
the two regular battalions of fepoys difciplined by the Englifh,
and two others armed with mufquets. NujeefKhan had a body
of five thoufand horfe, and a fmall party of French, who had
lately quitted the fervice of the Jauts. With this force, but ill
fupplied with ammunition, he marched out of the city, and took
poll at about two miles diflant from it, having the river Jumna
on his left, and on his right the old citadel. His rear was de-
fended by the artillery of the city walls. The Mharattas made
a general attack, almofl as foon as he had formed his line, and
were repulfed with lofs ; but NujeefKhan imprudently purfuing
the enemy, was drawn from his advantageous pofition, when they
rallied, and furrounded him with fo fuperior a body of cavalry,
as turned the fortune of the day. Nujeef Khan efcaped with
great difficulty, after the lofs of feveral of his beft officers and a
near relation, to the two difciplined battalions, who nobly flood
their ground. The French had raffily quitted their poft in pur-
fuit, and, after much lofs, with the greatefl difficulty attained a
fhelter under the walls of the old citadel. The two battalions
fuflained repeated charges till night, when the enemy retired ;
and Nujeef Khan, grown indifferent to life, was with force, by
his friends carried into Dhely. He had attempted feveral times
to rufh fingly on the enemy and court his death. It was faid,
that this defeat was owing to the treachery of Hufham ad Dow-
lah, who had allowed the Mharattas to pafs unmolefled under
the walls of the city, in the rear of Nujeef Khan. It is certain
that the minifler was not difpleafed at the lofs of his rival.

The emperor was now obliged to throw himfelf on the mercy
of his enemies. After fome days fpent in negotiation, the Mha-
rattas encamped nearer the city, and their chiefs, Biffajee and
Holkar, with Zabtah Khan, efcorted by a large body of troops,
made a triumphant entry into the palace, to vifit his majefly.

They

254

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

They advanced upon their elephants to the gate of the public
hall of audience, a privilege allowed only to the imperial fa-
mily. Their followers filled the various courts of the palace.
They even attempted to penetrate the female apartments, and
were prevented only by the intricate windings of the paflages from
molefting the women, and adding the worft difgrace to fallen
royalty. At the gate of the hall of audience the chiefs con-
defcended to alight, and to make the cuftomary obeifances ; but
the unfortunate emperor was obliged, at the fame time, to de-
fcend from his throne, and fit on a fmall carpet to receive them.
Biflajee and Holkar, after fome interval, helped him to re-af-
cend his throne j which he may be faid now to have received
from their hands. The whole of the interview pafled in the moft
humiliating condefcenfions of the emperor, and the greateft in-
folence on the part of the Mharattas.

After this vifit, Hufham ad Dowlah having laid the blame of
refinance on Nujeef Khan, and divided a lack of rupees between
the two Mharatta chiefs, they, for this trifling fum, agreed to ex-
pel his rival from Dhely. A meflage in the royal name was fent
to Nujeef Khan, commanding him to pay money received on the
emperor’s account, during the laft campaign in Rohilcund. Nu-
jeef Khan alleged truly, that he had expended the fum demanded,
about a eighty thoufand rupees, on his troops ; but his plea was
not accepted, and he was threatened with force. By pledging
fome jewels, plate, and the contributions of friends, he made
fhift to raife the money, which he paid ; but his danger did not
end here. He was peremptorily commanded to quit the city, and
threatened with force if he did not comply.

Nujeef

3 Ten thoufand pounds.

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

2 55

Nujeef Khan was now reduced to the laft extremity. He
few that nothing but his deftruCtion would fetisfy the minifter,
and was without money for his daily fupport ; but courage, in
fuch diftrefs, did not forfeke him or his friends. They collected
their women and children into the quarter furrounding his palace,
refolving, if forced, to feve their honour, by putting them to
death, and then feek their own by rufhing on the enemy. Bar-
ricadoes were formed at the different avenues, defended by artil-
lery. The quarter was furrounded by the minifter’s troops ; who,
however, were too cowardly to make an attack. Hufham ad
Dowlah had then recourfe to the Mharattas j but they refufed
fending troops into the city, left it fhould occafion a general
maffacre and pillage. Upon this refufel, the minifter obtained
from the emperor, (who was inexcufable in granting it,) a letter,
written in his own hand, begging their aftiftance, but in vain ; the
gallant behaviour of Nujeef Khan having raifed fentiments of
admiration and' companion in the breaft of their chiefs. Holkar
difpatched to him his nephew, with folemn affurances of fafety and
protection, if he would quit Dhely and come to his camp. Nujeef
Khan accepted his offer ; but firft refolved to obtain, if poftible,
the emperor’s difmiffion from his own mouth. His progrefs to
the palace was conducted with a folemnity, which evidently proved
the love and reverence his followers bore him. He was mounted
on horfeback, and proceeded flowly through the flreets, guarded
by his dependants to the number of fome thoufends, on foot, with
drawn febres, and loaded pieces, exclaiming at intervals, agreeably
to the Perfian cuftom at the great mourning on the anniverfery
of the maffacre of their Imaums, “ Ya Houffein, Ya Houffein,”
with doleful cries. On his arrival at the gate of the palace, he
fent a requeft for an interview with the emperor ; but it was re-
fufed ; nor indeed would it have been prudent or fafe to grant it,
in the prefent difpofition of the injured chief and his followers.
From the palace he marched in the fame folemn manner to the

Mharatta

256

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

Mharatta camp, where he was politely received by Holkar, who,
on hearing that he had not eaten for fome time for want of ne-
ceflaries, fupplied him with a fum of money. After fome con-
vention, Nujeef Khan returned to the city ; from whence, after
three days, he departed, with his family and followers, and was
received into the fervice of Holkar, at a falary of a lix thoufand
rupees a day for himfelf and his corps.

The Mharattas, now obliged the emperor to confer on Zabtah
Khan the rank of ameer al amra, and to reftore him the grant
of almoft all the diftridts, of which he had only a few months
before been deprived by their affiftance. The Jauts were alfo
reinstated in their poffeflions, and the Mharattas took to themfelves
an extenfive and fertile tradl, lying between the Ganges and Jum-
na rivers ; fo that Shaw Aulum was left almoft deftitute of re-
venue. He was alfo forced to make prefents, and affign over by
grant the provinces of Aleabad and Korah to his rapacious allies ;
which, however, they dared not at prefent attempt to occupy,
through fear of the Englifh, who fupported the royal governor,
Moneer ad Dowlah.

A. D. 1773. The Mharattas having plundered Dhely, marched into Rohil-
cund but their progrefs was interrupted by the arrival of Shujah
ad Dowlah and an Englifh brigade to the affiftance of the Ro-
hillas. After plundering the northern parts, on the appearance of
the allied army, they retreated acrofs the Ganges, from the bank
of which they fired a few (hot on the Englifh line ; but their
cannon being foon demounted by the enemy’s fire, they retreated
towards the Jumna, and fhortly after returned to Dekkan, where
fome difientions in their own government called for the prefence
of their chiefs. It is probable, that they had long before refolved

* Six hundred pounds fterling and upwards.

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

257

on a retreat to their own country, and that the neceffity of it
hadened their treacherous conduct to the emperor ; being willing
to obtain what they could, from the territories which they were
obliged to quit.

Nujeef Khan had, on the near approach of the allied army,
taken the opportunity of quitting the fervice of Holkar, the Mha-
ratta chief, and joining Shujah ad Dowlah, who received him with
great kindnefs, appointed him his deputy in the office of vizier,
and fent him back to Dhely, with the moil: earned: recommenda-
tions to the emperor to employ him in the room of Humam ad
Dowlah ; and this advice was alfo feconded by Sir Robert Barker.
The vizier now returned into his own dominions, where the Eng-
lifli army alfo cantoned.

Nujeef Khan, on his arrival at Dhely, was received with the
warmed: careffes by the emperor, now much difguded with and
weary of the condudt of his minider, who had not only occa-
fioned his fufferings from the Mharattas, but had alfo broken
his promife of redeeming fome valuable jewels, which had been
intruded to him to pledge during his neceffities. Nujeef Khan
offered not only to redeem the jewels, but to pay the arrears of
the royal troops, grown mutinous, if he would deliver the mini-
der into his hands. Shaw Aulum affented ; and the fallen fa-
vourite being feized, his effects were confifcated, to the amount
cf * ten lacks of rupees, little more than- a fifth part of which,
ho 'v ever, was paid to the emperor, the red being withheld by
Nujeef Khan.

Hufham ad Dowlah had rifen to power from a menial fitua-
tion ; not by merit or didinguifhed abilities, but by making infa-
Vol. II. K k mous

One hundred thoufand pounds.

A.D. 1774.

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

mous ufe of his matter's foibles, in procuring beautiful women
for his pleafures. He was without education, and unable to read
or write. His infolence in office was difgufting to all. During
his adminiftration he was feared and detetted ; and his fall was re-
joiced at by all ranks. He remained in clofe confinement nearly
two years, when Nujeef Khan not only let him at liberty, but
allotted him a liberal penlion for his fupport in private life ; in
which he has fince remained undiftinguifhed.

Nujeef Khan was now appointed fecond bukhffii, and, at his
recommendation, Abdulahud Khan, his friend, third, whom he left
to manage affairs with the emperor, while he himfelf engaged
in an expedition againft the Jauts, over whom he was fuccefsful
in a general adtion. His army confifted of three of the royal bat-
talions, three thouland Rohilla irregular infantry, and about eight
thoufand horfe under various adventurers. It was ttipulated, that
he Ihould retain half the conquered diftridts for the fupport of his
dignity and troops, and refign the other to the emperor. Shaw
Aulum now obtained repoflelfion of fome diftridts in the vicinity of
Dhely, and his affairs began to wear a tolerable afpedt.

Shujah ad Dowlah was now advanced to Etawa, from whence
he had driven the Mharatta garrifon, with a confiderable army,
and was waiting the arrival of an Englilh brigade, to proceed on
an expedition againft the Rohillas, who had failed in their engage-
ments to pay him forty lacks of rupees for his protection of their
country the laft year. Here he was vifited by Nujeef Khan, who
had reduced the city of Agra from the Jauts, and it was agreed,
that he Ihould invade the Rohillas on one fide, while the vizier
and his allies advanced on the other. This point being fettled,
Nujeef Khan repaired to Dhely.

Shujah

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

259

Shujah ad Dowlah had difpatched his minifter Eeruch Khan
to the capital, in the beginning of February, to negotiate with the
emperor. The minifter arrived at court with a conftderable force
and a large fum of money. With the firft he browbeat the royal
officers, and with the other bribed largely. He propofed to the
emperor to take the field and join in the attack of the Rohillas ;
on which condition, the vizier promifed to pay down immediately
a two lacks of rupees for the expenfe of preparation, b ten thoufand
rupees every marching day, and c five thouland each halting day.
He agreed alfo to refign half the conquered country to the royal
difpofal, when he fhould have paid his engagements with the
Englifh for their affiftance.

The emperor at firft gave his aflent ; but his inclinations were
againft aggrandizing his vizier at the expenfe of the Rohillas,
whom, it is faid, he informed of the defigns againft them. He
was, however, prevailed upon to march a ffiort diftance, and
crofting the Jumna, encamped at Shawdirruk, on the eaftern bank,
pretending to join Shujah ad Dowlah, who was now advanced to
Cofiy Gunge, within an hundred miles of Dhely. Upon his en-
tering the camp, he received the two lacks of rupees ftipulated,
and alfo d feventy five thoufand during his fihort ftay in the field ;
but fuddenly feigning fevere illnefs, he returned to the palace, and
his further march was laid afide. Eeruch Khan, however, by his
money, threats, and promifes, though he could not draw the em-
peror to join in the campaign, obtained grants for the vizier of all
the Rohilla country, Kinnoje, and Etawa ; alfo of the provinces
of Korah and Aleabad, of which he had already received pofief-

K k 2 fion

* Twenty thoufand pounds.

b One thoufand pounds.

* Five hundred pounds.

d Seven thoufand five hundred pounds.

2.6q

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

fion from the Engliffi ; who, as they had in fa& procured ' them
for Shaw Aulum, thought themfelves entitled to dilpole of them
again, when he had religned his claim to the Mharattas. The
emperor alfo, by an instrument in his own hand wrting, confti-
tuted Shujah ad Dowlah foie arbiter and director of all the royal
interefts and concerns without exception, even to the remillion of
the tribute of Bengal. For thefe concefiions, important as they
were, Shaw Aulum received only about a three lacks and a half
of rupees, and a promife from the vizier upon oath, of half the
territory of the Rohillas, or an equivalent in the b Doaub, more
adjacent to the capital ; but this condition was never performed,
though fo folemnly made.

Eeruch Khan alfo prevailed on the emperor to give Zabtah
Khan the farm of the revenues of Mheerut, then in poffenion of
the Mharattas, who were now expelled from it and all the weftern
provinces, except a fmall territory in Ajmere. The vizier obtained
this favour in order to fecure Zabtah Khan in his interelf, againfl
his own contrymen the Rohillas.

During this negotiation, Nujeef Khan ^arrived at Dhely from
his vifit to Shujah ad Dowlah, and was at firft received with great
coolnefs, not undefervedly, for he had neglected the performance
of his engagements to refign to the emperor half the conquefts
from the Jauts, and had refufed to admit a royal officer into the
command of the citadel of Agra, which he had promifed to do
when joined by the emperor’s battalions ; but as Shaw Aulum
could not puniffi his difrefpedf, he was feemingly reconciled to
him, on Nujeef Khan’s making new protections of loyalty. The
imperial troops, however, were no longer allowed to adt under
his orders.

Towards

« Thirty five thoufand pounds.

k Country between the rivers Ganges and Jumna.

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

261

Towards the end of April 1774, Nujeef Khan marched from
Dhely to join Shujah ad Dowlah ; who with his allies the Englifh,
had defeated the Rohillas in a general engagement, in which
Hafiz Rhamut, the leading chief being killed, the others fled for
refuge to the hills, leaving their country an eafy prey to the vizier ;
who took pofleflion of all Rohilcund, except the diftridts of
Rampore, which were granted in jaghire to Fyzoollah Khan,
at the mediation of the Englifh, upon his fubmiflion to the
vizier. Zabtah Khan alfo joined Shujah ad Dowlah j but being
greatly in arrear to the royal treafury for the revenue of his
country, Shaw Aulum, in his abfence, detached a force, who
expelled his collectors from Mheerut and other diftriCts with-
out oppofition.

The emperor’s affairs, though far from brilliant, yet, by
the addition of territory taken from Zabtah Khan, aflumed a
comfortable afpeCt; and had he joined Shujah ad Dowlah, it is
probable he would have obtained fome further acquifition ; but
he was diverted from it by the adding minifter Abdulahud Khan,
who feared his own influence would be loft in the fuperior
confequence of the vizier : nor was this the firft time that
Shaw Aulum fuffered by facrificing to the felf-intereft of a
favourite.

Nujeef Khan, after performing what was required of him
in the Rohilla war, returned to Dhely, reinforced by fome
troops lent him by Shujah ad Dowlah, who heartily forwarded
his advancement, and, it is faid, recommended him to remove
Abdulahud Khan from the emperor. The minifter, fufpeCting the
defign againft him, was on his guard, and would not move
from the citadel ; till at length Nujeef Khan finding Shaw
Aulum much averfe to the removal of the favourite, and his
march from Dhely on his own affairs becoming urgent, he

aflented

s62

AURUNGZEBE’s successors.

affented to his remaining in office, and a Teeming reconcilia-
tion took place.

Not long after this, Shaw Aulum received an offer from
Caulim Alee Khan, the fugitive navob of Bengal, who had
come from Jeypore to the neighbourhood of Dhely, of feven
lacks of rupees for the office held by Abdulahud Khan ; but
that minifter, having intelligence of his l'chemes, procured an
order to force him from the royal domains. It is fulpedted,
that the emperor would have accepted the propofal, could he
have done it without danger ; but it is certain, that he ffrongly
denied having liftened to it, dind laid the blame upon fome of
his fervants, who were immediately difmiffed, at the requeft of
Abdulahud Khan. Caufim Alee died fhortly after, at an obfcure
village near Dhely, unpitied even by his own family, for not even
misfortune could foften the cruelty of his mind. He had been
accompanied in his flight by feveral faithful dependants ; but
they were almoft all in the end obliged to abandon him, his
caufelefs jealoufy of their flncerity expoflng them to conftant
perfonal danger. Upon his efcape from Shujah ad Dowlah at
the battle of Buxar, he firft retired into the Rohilla country,
where he found a comfortable afylum ; but his intrigues ren-
dering him difagreeable to the chief under whofe protection he
reflded, he was obliged to leave it, and took fhelter with the
rana of Ghoed. After fome years refldence in his country, he
proceeded to a Jodepore, and from thence came to try his for-
tune in the fervice of the emperor, in which he met with the dif-
appointment related. Caufim Alee Khan certainly poffeffed abilities.
He would have been a ferviceable minifter to a prince within
the line of finance ; but for a fovereign ftation he was unfit,
being cruel, meanly fufpicious, and puiillanimous. In his prof-
perity, he forgot the friends who had given it him ; and in his
adverfe fortune, he illufed thofe who fhared it with him. The

Engliffi,

a Capital of the Marwar Rajafhip.

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

263

Englilh, deceived by his elegance of manners, which he pofTeffed
in a very eminent degree, and convinced of his fkill in the
finances of Bengal, (which province and its dependancies had
fallen to their difpofal, by the chance of war and inability of
•Meer Jaffier,) chofe him for his fucceflor and from that in-
ftant he became their enemy, and impatient to cut off the
hands which had exalted him. His jealoufy of the Englifh was
not that of a great mind, which cannot bear an equal, but of
a low cunning, feeling itfelf incapable of returning confidence
for confidence, and therefore defirous of burying obligation in
the deftruCtion of his patrons. Had this not been the cafe, he
would have relied on the promifes of Mr. Vanfittart, whofe
nobility of fentiment and liberality of heart were fully known
to him, for the arrangement of connection between him and
the Englifh : but the wickednefs of his own mind made him
fufpeCt others, and he fell defervedly from his high Ration.1

About this time, Sumroo, the bloody agent of Caufitn Alee’s
cruelty at Patna, having left the fervice of the Jauts, came to
Dhely, and was entertained by the minifter ; but at the ex-
piration of four months, Abdulahud Khan, fearful of exciting
the refentment of the Englifh, difcharged him, and he was im-
mediately retained by Nujeef Khan, though he had remon-
ftrated to the emperor on the impropriety of his accepting his
fer vices.

It may not be improper in this place to mention fome
particulars of Sumroo. His real name was Walter Reinehard,
and he was of obfcure parentage in the Electorate of Treves.
He entered early as a common foldier into the fervice of the
French, taking for his Norn de Guerre , Summer, which his com-
rades, from his laturnine complexion, turned into Sombre, and
the Indians, by corruption, Sumroo. At length he repaired to

Bengal,

a For Caufim Alee’s hiftory, vide Tranfa&ions of Bengal, in this volume.

264

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

Bengal, and enlifted into one of the Swifs companies then em-
ployed at Calcutta ; but at the end of eighteen days deferted
to the French at Chandernagore, where he became a ferjeant.
Deferting this poft, he fled into the upper provinces, and was
for fome time a private trooper in the cavalry of Suffder Jung*
father to Shujah ad Dowlah. This fervice he quitted, and led
a vagabond life in different provinces ; but in 1760 was with
the rebel fojedaur of Purnea. Upon his being expelled from
Bengal, Sumroo left him, and entered into the fervice of Gregory,
an Armenian, then in high favour with Cauflm Alee, and dif-
tinguifhed by the title of Goorgeen Khan. From him he had
the command of a battalion of fepoys, and afterwards obtain-
ed from the navob the addition of another. In this ftation he
maflacred the Engliih captives at Patna. Some time previous
to the battle of Buxar, he treacheroufly deferted Cauflm Alee
with his corps, and embraced the fervice of Shujah ad Dowlah,
who had gained him over by bribes. Upon his defeat at Buxar,
he was entrufted with the protection of the Begums, and re-
mained with the vizier till he had made peace with the Englifh ;
when, fearful of being delivered up to them, he retired to Agra,
and entered into the pay of the Jaut raja, Jowahir Sing ; but
quitted him for the fervice of the raja of Jeypore, who foon
difmifled him on a remonftrance from the Englifh general.
He then again ferved the Jauts ; quitted them once more, and
came to Dhely ,* from whence, as related, he followed the for-
tunes of Nujeef Khan, in whofe fervice he died. Such are the
outlines of the fortune of this man, who had fome merit as a
foldier, but wholly obfcured by a treacherous- and blood-thirfty
difpofition. His corps was continued after his death, in the
name of his fon and a favourite concubine, who received for
their maintenance the fum of aflxty five thoufand rupees' per
month.

Towards,

* Six thoufand five hundred pounds.

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

Towards the latter end of the year 1774, Zabtah Khan, at
the recommendation of Shujah ad Dowlah, who had deprived
him of his territories eaft of the Ganges, notwithftanding his
profefiions of friendfhip before the defeat of the Rohillas, was,
to make fome amends for the difappointment, called to Dhely,
and reffored to his farm of Mheerut and other diltridts, on
condition of paying a revenue of nine lacks of rupees to the
royal treafury.

In the month of January 1775, died the vizier Shujah ad
Dowlah, in the midft of his victories and higheft profperity.
He had planned the extenlion of his dominions over all the
territory ufurped by the Mharattas in the provinces of Malwa,
Agra, and Bondelcund ; and, had he lived a few years longer,
there is little doubt, but that with the afliftance of the Englilh,
he would have confined the Poonah government to their pof-
feffions fouth of the Nerbudda river; which would have been a
blefiing to the diftradted empire of the Mahummedans in Hin-
dooftan. In the early part of his life he was vain, and ad-
dicted to pleafure, for which he too much negledted public
bufinefs ; but on the recovery of his dominions after the battle
of Buxar, he the wed that adverfity had been to him a fervice-
able tutorefs, by bringing forth the better qualities of his mind
into adtion. As a prince, he was wife, and dignified in cha-
radter ; as a private man, affable, humane and generous. In a
fituation, where the attainment of a fplendid objedt too gene-
rally palliates the means of purfuit, however treacherous, and in
a country where arts, common to all, are unhappily neceffary
for felf-defence, his policy was lefs marked with blood than
that of moft princes who are efteemed in Hindooffan as de-
fending general applaufe. By his own fubjedts he was fincerely
beloved; and pven the fons of Hafiz Rhamut, whofe country he
had feized, wept at his death. Had he been placed among a
Vol. II. LI virtuous

& — ~
/ /v

266

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

virtuous people, he might have been a virtuous prince ; and
among thofe he was obliged to govern and contend with, he
was eminently fuperior in every good quality.1

Shujah ad Dowlah was fucceeded in territory by his elded:
fon, Afoph ad Dowlah ; and upon his prefenting a pefhcufh,
or offering, and fending a general with five thoufand men and
fome artillery to attend the emperor, was inverted alfo with
the office of vizier.

A. D.I776. The troops fent by Afoph ad Dowlah reached Dhely at a
time, important even to the perfonal fafety of Shaw Aulum,
the royal army having been juft defeated by Zabtah Khan, who
had refufed paying the revenues of the diftridts of which he
had the collection, and taken up arms to fupport his difobe-
dience. The arrival of the vizier’s troops alone prevented him
from becoming matter of Dhely and the fate of his fovereign.
Zabtah Khan, however, by the mediation of Luttafut, Afoph ad
Dowlah’s general, who was bribed largely on the occafion,
was again pardoned, his arrears remitted, and re-appointed to
the trufts he had betrayed, Shaw Aulum having not refolution
or power to refufe his affent.

A. D. 1777. This year the emperor, affirted by Nujeef Khan, who had
completed his conquefts over the Jauts, marched once more
againft Zabtah Khan, who had again rebelled. The greateft part
of his country was taken, but little advantage accrued to Shaw
Aulum, moft of the recovered diftridts being given by the general
as fecurities for pay to the chiefs of different corps. The em-
peror kept the field from April to December ; when, weary of
being led as a pageant by Nujeef Khan, who only ufed his

authority

a An account cf Shujah ad Dowlah’s warfare with the Englifh is given in
the hiftory of Bengal, in this volume.

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

authority to aggrandize himfelf, he returned in difguft to Dhely,
and Nujeef Khan repaired to Agra, of which province he was
now mailer, and kept up only a nominal allegiance to his
fovereign.

No remarkable event occurred in the emperor’s concerns till
the conclulion of the rains this year when fome propofals
being made by a Raajepoote chief, then at war with Nujeef
Khan, the minifter, a Mujd ad Dowlah, thinking them favour-
able to his views of humbling the latter, perfuaded Shaw Aulum
to take the field, under a pretence of a pilgrimage to b Ajmere,
to cover the real objedt of the expedition from Nujeef Khan.
The emperor, accordingly, moved by flow marches to Narnoul,
about fifty cofs from Dhely, which he reached near the clofe
of the year. By this time, the raja, to aflift whom the cam-
paign was made, being taken prifoner, Mujd ad Dowlah chang-
ing his objedt, employed the royal force to lhare the advan-
tages of his deftrudtion with Nujeef Khan. Several diftridts
were feized, and the minifter now thought ferioufly of leading
his mafter to Ajmere, and exacting a tribute from the raja of

Jeypore in the route. Nujeef Khan was fummoned to attend

the royal ftandard, though, probably, his prefence was not de-
fired by Mujd ad Dowlah. In January 1779, the royal army
arrived near Jeypore, and the minor raja, lately acceded to the

mufnud by the death of his uncle, was fummoned to attend

the emperor. The regent was embarafled how to adt; not
chufing to truft the royal minifter, who had taken many of the
Raajepoote chiefs, his enemies, into pay; nor did he wifti to
exafperate the emperor by dilrefpedt. In this dilemma, he fought
the patronage of Nujeef Khan, who willingly gave it him, being

L 1 2 defirous

a Abdulahud Khan, who had received this title, fignifying, Ex alter of the
(late.

h At this city is the tomb of a celebrated Mahummedan faint.

2 67

A.D. 1778.

268

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

defirous of depriving Mujd ad Dowlah of the credit and ad-
vantage of an influence in Jeypore, on which he had views
of his own.; The minifter was amufed, by promifes from the
regent of coming to an interview, till Nujeef Khan joined the
royal camp, when the raja declared his wifhes of having him
only for his mediator with the emperor. Mujd ad Dowlah
dared not refufe, as Nujeef Khan was fuperior in force; and
Shaw Aulum confented from the fame caufe. Eight lacks of
rupees were fettled for the offering, of which two only were
paid to the royal treafury ; but Nujeef Khan obtained a much
larger fum, befides the advantage which the credit of his fu-
periority over Mujd ad Dowlah gave him in the eyes of the
Raajepootes. Nor was this all ; the diftri&s taken by the royal
army being reflgned to him and his friends, for which he gave
up a trait near Dhely, lefs convenient and beneficial to his
government.' At his requeft, the pilgrimage was laid afide, and
the emperor returned to his capital after a tirefome campaign;
which had only ferved to bring frefh infults on his authority,
from the weaknefs of Mujd ad Dowlah and the ingratitude of
Nujeef Khan.

A. D. 1779. The royal army had fcarce returned to Dhely, when the
minifter again refolved to take the field, and prevailed on the
emperor to fend with him his fecond fon, the prince a Ferkhundeh
Akhter. Great preparations were made, which took up feveral
months, and excited the attention of the public. Various were
the reports of his intentions. At one time, it was fuppofed he
had entered into negotiations of alliance with the Mharattas,
who had defeated the Englifh army from Bombay, and threat-
ened to attack them in Oude and Bengal. At another, it was
rumoured that the royal army was to be joined by the Siks,
and to fall on Nujeef Khan for his neglect of the emperor. At

length.

3 Of aufpicious ftars.

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

269

length, in the month of June 1779, Mujd ad Dowlah with his
royal pupil moved from Dhely, and advanced to Panniput, with
fix battalions of fepoys armed in the European manner, a con-
fiderable train of artillery, lix thoufand horfe, eight thoufand
irregular infantry, and fome bands of mercenary Siks ; fo that,
in point of numbers, his army was formidable, and, with con-
duct on his part, equal to the conquests of the petty chiefs in
his route, whom he might chufe to attack. On his march he
feized a zemindar, named Daiffoo Sing, from whom he exacted
about two lacks of rupees, and then proceeded towards Puttiala,
the refidence of Amer Sing, ninety cofs north-weft of Dhely,
who had ufurped a conliderable territory. He was command-
ed to join the royal army, and pay a compenfation for the
revenue of the country ; which at firft he promifed, and a nego-
tiation was begun to fettle the fum ; but the wily zemindar was
infincere, and only wanted to gain time, till he fhould be aflift-
ed by the Siks from the province of Lahore, who had pro-
miied to protect him, as his reduction would have expofed them
to invafion from the royal army. After fome days, Amer
Sing, joined by many of his allies, threw off the mafk, and
the Siks in the fervice of the minifter deferted to him, not
chufing to light againft their brethren. Mujd ad Dowlah, in-
ftead of adting with relolution, would not try the event of per-
fiftance in his demands, but began his retreat towards Panniput ;
to which place he was followed by Amer Sing and the Siks,
who haraffed his line of march daily, and plundered his bag-
gage, but could make no impreffion on the main body of his
army; a proof that had he adted vigoroully, a different fate
would have attended his expedition.

The emperor, alarmed at the retreat of his minifter, and
dreading the event of the army coming to Dhely and demand-
ing their arrears of pay, wrote preffingly to Nujeef Khan, im-
ploring

2JO

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

ploring his affiftance, and defiring him to take the adminiftra-
tion of affairs upon himfelf. Nujeef Khan, who had long wifhed
for fuch an opportunity of ruining the minifter, and had, it is
faid, privately negotiated with the Siks and Amer Sing, haften-
ed to Dhely with his army. Mujd ad Dowlah, upon his ar-
rival at the capital, was difgraced and committed to tde cuftody
of his rival, who confifcated the greateft part of his effedts, a
fhare of which he gave up to the emperor.

From this period till the death of Nujeef Khan, Shaw Aulum
remained under his controul, a penlioner on his bounty, with-
out the leaft power of royalty beyond the granting of empty
titles, and the ratification of the adts of his minuter j who fo
abufed his authority, that the wretched emperor frequently wanted
for conveniences, and the women of the haram, and numerous
confined perfonages of the blood-royal, often the common ne-
ceffaries of life.

Nujeef Khan was now at the height of his power and am-
bition, poffeffing the foie authority at Dhely, with the greateft
part of that province, and the very extenfive one of Agra,
together with that capital. The raja of Jeypore, and feveral
other Hindoo princes alfo were his tributaries. Next to the
vizier, he was the firft officer of the empire, being appointed
ameer al amra, with the title of aZoolfeccar ad Dowlah. After
hi& arrival at Dhely, he loft the energy of his former character,
and indulged in voluptuoufnefs fo much, that it injured his con-
ftitution j which he ftrove to repair for the gratification of ap-
petite, by ftimulating confedtions. Thefe foon brought on a
complication of diforders, which put an end to his life on the
twenty fecond of April, 1782, in the forty ninth year of his
age.

* Sword of the Rate.

Nujeef

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

27 r

Nujeef Khan was bom in Perfia, of a family faid to be
related to the Suffewee fovereigns of that empire ; and in his
infancy was, with many of his relations, a prifoner to the ufurper
Nadir Shaw, who kept all the perfonages, any way allied to
the throne, in confinement for his own fecurity. At the re-
queft of Meerza Mhofun, the brother of Suffder Jung, who was
fent on an embafly to Nadir by Mahummud Shaw, after his
invafion of Hindooftan, Nujeef Khan and a fitter much older
than himfelf were releafed. The lady married her deliverer,
and Nujeef Khan accompanied her and her hufband to Dhely.
He was treated with parental attention by Meerza Mhofun, and
at his death attached himfelf to Mahummud Koollee Khan, his
ion, the governor of Aleabad, who was fhortly after feized and
put to death by his firft coufin, Shujah ad Dowlah, he being
jealous of his ambitious views in affifting Shaw Aulum in the

invafion of Bengal, and regarding Aleabad as his right, it hav-

ing been given only in deputation by his father, the vizier Suffder
Jung, to Mahummud Koollee Khan, who had refufed to fur-
render it to the fon. Nujeef Khan, upon this event, retired
with a few followers into Bengal, and offered his fervices to the
navob Meer Caufim, then at war with the Englifh, who gave
him great encouragement. When Meer Caufim took refuge with
Shujah ad Dowlah, Nujeef Khan, not chufing to trutt himfelf
in the power of the latter, repaired to Bondelcund, and ferved
Gomaun Sing, one of the chiefs of that country. Upon the

flight of Shujah ad Dowlah, after the battle of Buxar, he of-

fered his fervices to the Englifh, reprefenting himfelf as the right-
ful lord of the province of Aleabad, was received with refpeft-
ful welcome, and even put into poffeffion of a part of it; but
when peace was concluded with the vizier, the Englifh, difcov-
ering the falfehood of his claim, fet it afide, and rewarded his
attachment with a penfion of two lacks of rupees and ftrong
recommendations to the emperor. The recompenfe was greater

than

27 2

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

than his merits with the Englifh, as he had kept up a corref-
pondence with Shujah ad Dowlah, whom he would have joined,
had he been fuccefsful in the battle of Korah. From Aleabad
he accompanied Shaw Aulum to Dhely, where the various turns
of his fortune have been already related in the preceding pages.

Nujeef Khan poffeffed great perfonal courage, and a forti-
tude and prefence of mind not to be overcome by the greated
didrefs, or the mod: fudden misfortune. His affability of man-
ners was fuch, as to charm even hunger to be patient in his
fervice, and overcome the mutinous refolutions of his troops,
often driven to extreme neceffity for w'ant of regular pay. He
was once, afrer the reduction of a capital fortrefs from the
Jauts, (from which his army had hoped to receive the advan-
tage of a liquidation of their long arrears) feized upon by the
troops, menaced with death, and expofed bare-headed for a
whole day to the fun, in the hotted; feafon of Hindoodan ; a
mod: fevere punifhment. But this, and the apprehendons of
immediate death, did not move the calmnefs of his mind. He
foothed the mod: morofe of the mutineers with his eloquence,
and diverted them from their purpofe by his humourous re-
marks upon his own fituation and their condudl ; till, at length,
they were contented with a part of their demands, and con-
tinued to ferve him in hopes of better times. It is faid, that
no perfon ever went away diffatisfied from Nujeef Khan, who,
if he could not grant a requed, would convince the petitioner of
his forrow at his being obliged to refufe it. His expenfes always
exceeded his income, and this obliged him to mortgage his
revenues in affignment to the officers of his army for pay ; fo
that his country was never completely fettled under his own
controul, but always paffing from one chief to another, who
made his own datement with the farmers. As he never refufed
offers of fervice from any military adventurers, this evil con-
tinually

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

tinually encreafed, and he did not live long enough after his
conquefls to corredt the abufe by a fettled form of government,
and a reduction of force adequate to his finances. It is pro-
bable, had Nujeef Khan been placed at the head of an eflab-
lifhed government, he would have been an amiable and great
prince ; and in the fituation he filled, his charadter draws ad-
miration,1 when his difadvantages are liberally confidered.

Upon the death of Nujeef Khan, the illconftrudted fabric of
his government foon fell to pieces from the diffentions of his
adherents; while Shaw Aulum, as ufual, fandlified from necef-
fity the adtions of the fuccefsful party. Affrafiaub Khan, an
adopted fon of the deceafed, was firft appointed ameer al amra,
and, at his requefl, Mujd ad Dowlah releafed from confinement ;
but his power did not laft long. Nujeef Khan’s filter, who had
great influence with the army, being difgufted at his behaviour,
invited Meerza Shuffee Khan, a near relation of her own, to
Dhely, and offered him the infant daughter of her deceafed bro-
ther in marriage ; alfo, to procure for him from the emperor
. the adminiflration of affairs, and the honours of Nujeef Khan.

Meerza Shuffee, who was then on an expedition againfl the
Siks to the northward of the capital, readily embraced the Begum’s
invitation, and repaired to court ; which Affrafiaub Khan deferted
on his approach, leaving Mujd ad Dowlah and b Nujeef Koollee
Khan to oppofe him. It would appear that Shaw Aulum was
unwilling to grant Meerza Shuffee the adminiflration of affairs,
Vol. II. M m for

a Nujeef than, in palliating the delays of payment to his troops, was often
obliged to make excules not confident with truth. An officer one day told-
him he had met fifty carriages coming to the camp ; and What were their
contents ? faid Nujeef Khan. Lies for your ufe in this campaign, returned the
officer. A poor fupply, indeed, replied Nujeef Khan; they will fcarce equal the
dilburfement of a Angle day.

b Alfo an auopted fon of Nujeef Khan’s.

2/4

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

for he did not admit him to the prefence till he had feized
the two chiefs above-mentioned, when, unable to refufe his
demands, he appointed him ameer al amra.

Meerza Shuffee having thus forced bimfelf into office, treated
Shaw Aulum with little refpedt ; and the oppreffed monarch,
weary of the indignities daily offered him, made an attempt to
free himfelf from his controul, and reftore Affraliaub Khan.
Monlieur Pawly, who commanded Sumroo’s battalions, and Lut-
tafut, a eunuch, at the head of a confiderable body of fepoys,
with other chiefs, were drawn over from the intereft of Meerza
Shuffee by Mahummud Yacoob Khan, the emperor’s confidant.
They affembled fuddenly under arms at the palace, where Shaw
Aulum putting himfelf at their head, marched towards the re-
fidence of Meerza Shuffee, intending to feize his perfon. The
ameer al amra endeavoured to draw out his followers, but they
refufed to adt, and he with difficulty made his efcape from the
city. Shaw Aulum, fatisfied with his expulfion, declined purfu-
ing the fugitive ; though his eldeft fon, the prince Jehaundar
Shaw, reprefented juftly, that unlefs his perfon and that of the
Begum were fecured, and their wealth feized, the royal inten-
tions would be left uncompleted, as Meerza Shuffee would be
joined by his troops when recovered from the panic which the
fuddennefs of this attempt had infpired. To account for the
inadtion of the emperor at this crifis, is impoffible. It can only
be fuppofed, that he dreaded treachery from the chiefs who
had advifed him to expel the minifter.

Meerza Shuffee, as had been foretold by the prince, was
rejoined by mofi; of the troops, and affifted by Mahummud
Beg Hammadaunee, a powerful chief of the late Nujeef Khan,
returned towards Dhely, refolved to force the emperor to reftore
him to office.

Monfieur

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

275

Monfieur Pawly and Luttafut, upon intelligence of this junc-
tion, prevailed upon Shaw Aulum to encamp at Khizzerabad, a
ffiort diftance from Dhely, intending to make a Hand againft
the enemy ; but Meerza ShulFee offering to make conceffions
to his majefty, a negotiation commenced, and Pawly and Lut-
tafut were invited to a meeting with the rebels, in order to
fettle the terms of their fubmiffion to the emperor, but in fa£t
of his to them.

The prince Jehaundar Shaw now again cautioned his father
againft making terms with the rebels ; but in vain. In his nar-
rative, given by himfelf to Mr. Haflings, he fays ; “ I from
“ loyalty obferved, that in fuch quarrels there was no room
“ for peace ; that the force with his majefty was more than
“ equal to crufh them.”

Pawly and Luttafut declined following the advice of the
prince, accepted the invitation of Meerza Shuffee Khan, and,
upon entering his camp, were taken prifoners. The former was
put to death, and the latter punifhed by the lofs of his eyes.
Meerza Shuffee now exa&ed what demands he pleafed from
Shaw Aulum, who re-appointed him ameer al amra, and, at his
recommendation, Mujd ad Dowlah, who had found means to
make his peace, was once more reftored to his office of b dewan
of the khalfeh.

Soon after this commotion, Meerza Shuffee, leaving Mujd
ad Dowlah to a£t for him with ' the emperor, marched from
Dhely to reftore order in the province of Agra, and took with him
Meerza Soleymaun Shekoh, one of the princes, to add dignity
to his operations. Shaw Aulum was left in the poffeffion of
the lands allotted for the fupport of his houfehold by the late

Mm2 Nujeef

4 Director of the revenue fet apart for the fupport of the houfehold.

276

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

Nujeef Khan; fo that, confidering the part he had taken againft
his minifter, that chief did not adt ungeneroufly towards him.
Aftrafiaub Khan, who had marched to take advantage of the de-
ligns in his favour, politically kept at a diftance, till convinced
of the fuperiority of Meerza ShufFee ; when he joined him, and
was left unmolefted in poffeffion of the aiftridts allotted him
under the late Nujeef Khan.

Meerza Shuffee was not a man calculated to retrieve the dis-
order which had occurred in affairs fince the death of his pre-
deceffor. He was deftitute of that addrefs and affability of
manner, by which Nujeef Khan had attached to himfelf the
officers of his army, each of whom confidered himfelf as in-
dependant. Mahummud Beg Khan Hammadaunee in particular,
who had fo greatly affifted in eftabliffiing him in power, was
difgufted at the fuperiority he affumed over him, and with his
refufal of fome additional diftridts which he demanded. The
Begum alfo, lifter of Nujeef Khan, was difplealed with him
for not allowing her that influence in government which ftie
had enjoyed in the lifetime of her brother. The ftiort period
of his adminiftration paffed in conftant quarrels with his omcers ;
and at length Mahummud Beg, who regarded not by what
means he forwarded his views, refolved to remove him by trea-
chery. For this purpofe, he pretended a wiffi to reconcile
their differences, by an amicable adjuftment, and requeited an
interview, to which Meerza Shuffee Khan affented. They met
before the fortrefs of Deeg, on the thirtieth of September, 1783,
each attended by an army, and Meerza Shuffee was ftabbed by
Ifmaeel Beg, the brother of Mahummud, while he was embra-
cing him. An engagement between the two armies followed,
and Mahummud Beg was driven from the field with fome lofs.
Affraflaub Khan was declared fucceflor to the murdered navob,
by the After Begum and the army, and was ffiortly after con-
firmed

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

2 77

firmed by the emperor in the office of ameer al amra and the
government of the provinces of Dhely and Agra. Mahummud
Beg, however, refufed to acknowledge his authority, levied troops
to oppofe him, and committed^ depredations in feveral diftridts.
Affrafiaub, finding himfelf unequal to fupport his power alone,
endeavoured to procure the affiftance of his neighbours, the navob
vizier and the Englifh, or the Mharattas. In this unfettled ftate
of affairs, the prince Jehaundar Shaw, in April 1784, made his
efcape from Dhely, and repaired to Lucnow, where Mr. Haft-
ings had arrived to regulate the concerns between the vizier
and the company. His highnefs’s object was, to procure a force
to free his father the emperor from the controul in which he
was kept by Affrafiaub Khan, and to oblige him to allot a por-
tion of the revenues for the fupport of the royal dignity. He
declared, that his efcape was with the private concurrence of
his father, and moft probably with truth, though publickly Shaw
Aulum demanded his being fent back a prifoner to Dhely,
obliged to it through fear of his mimlter. Mr. Haftings was
too generous to obey commands, which, if complied with, would
have facrificed an unfortunate prince to life imprifonment, if
not afiaffination. Though reftndted by his employers from
taking an aftive part in the royal affairs, he hoped, by pro-
tecting the prince, to perfuade Affrafiaub to fhew proper refpeCt
to the imperial family ; and his plan in fome meafure fucceeded.
The ameer al amra fent major Brown, the Englifh refident at
Dhely, to Lucnow, with offers to comply with any terms the
navob vizier and Mr. Haftings fhouid ftipulate for the advan-
tage of the emperor ; and agreed to aCt under the prince as
minifter, provided they would fupport him with fome troops
againft Mahummud Beg and other refractory chiefs ; reprefent-
ing, that if they could not grant that condition, he muft feek
an alliance with Sindia, the Mharatta chief, who was ready to
enter the country. Mr. Haftings was unable to furnifh troops,

the

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

the council of Bengal refufing to take any a&ive part beyond
the frontiers of the vizier ; and Affrafiaub, confequently, made
his alliance with Sindia.

Previous to the return of major Brown from Lucnow,
Affrafiaub, jealous of Mujd ad Dowlah, whom he had left to
manage the affairs of the royal houfehold, confined that minif-
ter, and prevailed upon Shaw Aulum to march to Agra, by
promifes of giving up that city with the fortrefs to his difpofal.
The emperor, flattered by the hopes of acquiring more power,
or intimidated by the confinement of his old advifer, Mujd ad
Dowlah, left Dhely, and arrived at Agra in October *784;
when the golden keys of the citadel were prefented to him by
Affrafiaub, and he had the% fatisfa&ion of being called King of
the World, in the palace of his anceflor, the renowned Akber;
but it was garrifoned by the troops of the minifler. Mr. Haft-
ings had by this time departed from Lucnow, and was ac-
companied by the prince to Banaras, which he chofe for his
refidence, not thinking it fafe to trufl his perfon with Affrafiaub
or Sindia ; a recommendation to whom of his interefls, was
now the only fervice that the Englifh could afford him be-
yond their own territories. He had an allowance of a five lacks
of rupees per annum from the navob vizier, and wifely refolved
to wait for better times. Shaw Aulum remained in the hands
of his minifler.

On the twenty fecond of October 1784, Affrafiaub ' had an
interview with his, new ally Mahajee Sindia j when it was agreed,
that they fhould jointly attack Mahummud Beg Hammadaunee ;
but their plans were fruflrated by an unfortunate event. On
Tuefday, the fecond of November, Affrafiaub Khan was affaflin-

ated

* Fifty thoufand pounds. This allowanee was given at the earned requed
cf Mr. Hadings.

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

atcd by a foldier, faid to be employed by Zien-al-aub-ad-Dien
the brother of the late Meerza ShufFee Khan, and Mahummud
Beg Hammadaunee, who dreaded the power which Sindia’s al-
liance would give to the objedt of their hatred. This event
occafioned a new revolution in affairs, by transferring the autho-
rity of the Moguls to the Mharattas.

Sindia, by prefents of fome money, promifes of obedience,
and a regular allowance for the royal houlehold, prevailed on
Shaw Aulum to come to his camp, and beftow upon the
a pefhwa the office of vaqueel muttulluk, or foie diredtor of
the empire, with the deputation of this employment to himfelf.
Under this grant, he claimed the command of the army of the
unfortunate AfFrafiaub, and the governments of Agra and Dhely.
As he was at the head of a large body of Mharattas, and
the Mogul chiefs could not agree among themfelves in the choice
of a fuccefFor, he eafily effected his defigns. The different of-
ficers of corps made their own terms with Sindia, pretending
to obey the orders of the emperor ; and Mahummud Beg alfo
acknowledged his authority. Shujah Dil Khan, the father in
law of AfFrafiaub, gave up the fortrefs of Agra, after a fhort
fiege, for a jaghire, and afFurances of a provifion for the fon
of the deceafed, his grandfon, an infant, named Khadim Houf-
fein Khan. Shaw Aulum was now permitted to return to Dhely.
Sixty thoufand rupees per month were fettled by Sindia for
his fupport ; but a body of Mharattas was Rationed with him,
to prevent him encouraging any other power fo that, in fadl,
he was only a flate pnfoner in the hands of Sindia.

Shaw Aulum did not remain long at Dhely, being again
requefted by Sindia to take the field, to fandtion, by his ap-
pearance, the capture of Aleeghur, the refidence of the Begum

279

a Chief minifter of the Mharatta ftate.

280

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

of Affrafiaub Khan. Jehaungeer Khan, the governor, after Tome
time, fubmitted. By the fall of Aleeghur, the authority, of
Sindia was eftablifhed in all the territories which had belonged
to the late ameer al amra, Nujeef Khan. He now demanded
tribute from feveral rajas, and among them from the raja of
Jeypore, towards whofe country he marched with the emperor.
Negotiation and threatenings employed feveral months, till the
approach of the rainy fealon of 1786, when Shaw Aulum re-
turned to Dhely, and Sindia with his army cantoned at Muttra.
The acquifitions of the Mharattas, by their interference with
the Moguls, were however more fplendid than ufeful ; the pro-
vinces of Dhely and Agra being exhaufted of revenue by the
opprefiions of the late contending chiefs ; fo that Sindia began
to find himfelf in a troublefome fituation. Long arrears were
due to the troops, and his refources were unequal to his dif-
burfements.

A. D. 1787, Towards the latter end of the year 1787, a confiderable
body of Mharattas, under Royjee Pateel, who had been fent to
coiled: a tribute from the raja of Jeypore, being defeated, Sin-
dia marched with his whole army into that country, and ad-
vanced within a fiiort difiance of the capital. The raja, being
aflifted by the chief of Jodepore and other allies, difirefled his
enemy by cutting off his fupplies ; To that both Mharattas and
Moguls became difcontented, and Mahummud Beg Hammadaunee
with his followers deferted to the raja. In this conjuncture,
Sindia refolved to make a pufh, leff the defection fhould be-
come general. A fevere aCtion took place, and Mahummud
Beg was flain ; but the valour and conduCt of his brother If-
maeel Beg reftored the courage of the troops, which had given
way from the lofs of their chief, and victory declared for the
Raajepootes. Three days after this event, Sindia was deferted by
, the difciplined battalions of fepoys, who went over to Ifmaeel

Beg.

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

Beg. This misfortune was followed by repeated defeats, which
obliged him to retreat with precipitation acrofs the Chumbul,
to the neighbourhood of Gualior, and quit for the prefent all
offenfive operations ; leaving garrifons in the citadel of Agra and
fortrefs of Aleeghur, in hopes of their holding out till he could
obtain reinforcements from Dekkan. Deeg and fome other places
he gave up to the Jaut raja, Runjeet Sing, to whom they origin-
ally belonged, that he might keep up an intereft among the
natives of the country.

The evacuation of the provinces of Dhely and Agra by the
Mharatta army, occalioned a fad change in the royal affairs.
Shaw Aulum, the pageant of every fuccefsful party, marched
from Dhely at the invitation of the raja of Jeypore, who ad-
vanced within three days’ journey of the capital to pay his
refpedts; but whether he was unwilling to engage in the ad-
miniftration of the royal concerns, intimidated by fears of the
return of the Mharattas, or refolved only to adt for the pre-
fervation of his own country, he in a fhort time obtained his
difmiffion, and withdrew to his own territories. Shaw Aulum
returned to Dhely, where he hoped to remain fecure, and un-
engaged with party, till Sindia’s return with a reinforcement, or
a decided fuperiority of his enemies. Unhappy indeed was his
fituation, and hard the part he had to adt. In the hands of a
Mharatta garrifon in his capital, and depending for fupport on
Sindia, he was obliged, at the fame time, to lend his name to
his enemy Ifmaeel Beg; who, after defeating the Mharattas in
the field, had taken feveral places from them, and laid fiege
to Agra, under pretence of the imperial orders.

At this crifis ftarted up a new adventurer, the moft fatal
one of any to the unfortunate Shaw Aulum. * Gholaum Kaudir
Vol. II. N n Khan,

a This chief was fon and fucceflor to Zabtah Khan, often mentioned in the
preceding pages.

28l

z8z

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

Khan, a Rohilla chief, hoping to acquire power in the dift rafted
Rate of affairs, marched fuddenly from his refidence of Ghofe-
ghur, and appeared before Dhely, which the Mharatta garrifon
evacuated on his approach. He obliged the emperor to confer
on him the dignity of ameer al amra ; after which he moved
to lay fiege to the fortrefs of Aieeghur, where Sindia had left
a garrifon.

The prince Jehaundar Shaw, who had refided fince the year
1784 at Banaras, under the Englifh protection, was at this time
alfo refolved to try his fortune in the troubles. He marched to
Dhely, and was joined on his route by fome thousands of ad-
venturers. On his arrival at the capital he was received with
much favour by his father, who empowered him to direft the
operations of Gholaum Kaudir Khan ; and the prince, after
obtaining the releafe of his women and children, who had
been confined fince his flight, repaired to the fiege of Aiee-
ghur. He was foon difgufled with the brutal difrefpeft of the
Rohilla, and repaired to Agra, in hopes of finding a better
fervant in Ifmaeel Beg, but was difap pointed. The money he
had brought with him from Banaras being exhaufted, his fol-
lowers became clamorous for pay, and the unhappy prince at
length was obliged to divide among them his eifefts. Not
chufing to return to Dhely, left the influence of his brother
Akber Shaw, the favourite fon of Shaw Aulum, fhould pre-
vail on his father to confine him in his unprotected ftate, he
threw himfelf again on the generality of the Englrlh. They
again received him, and he repaired once more to Banaras, but
did not long furvive his return. About a week after his arriv-
al he was feized with a putrid fever, occafioned by expoiing
himfelf for fome hours to a burning fun in a vifit of devo-
tion to the tomb of a celebrated Mahummedan faint at Chunar,
and died on the thirty firft of May, 1788, after an illnefs of

little

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

283

little more than twenty four hours. He was buried with every
honour due to his rank ; the Engiifh refident and principal
people of the city attending his funeral. He left behind him
three fons, whom, with the reft of his family, he recommend-
ed to the care of the Engiifh, under whom they enjoy a com-
fortable afylum and allowance at Banaras.

Gholaum Kaudir Khan, on the fall of Aleeghur, march-
ed to join Ifmaeel Beg in the fiege of Agra; but they foon
difagreeing, he left him to make conquefts for himfelf in other
parts of the country. By this time Sindia had received fome
fuccours from Dekkan, and difpatched his confidential minifter,
Rana Khan, with the Jaut rajah, Runjeet Sing, to raife the fiege
of Agra, near which a bloody battle was fought on the fixteenth
of June, 1788, in which Ifmaeel Beg was compleatly defeated,
with the lofs of all his cannon, baggage, and ftores. He made
his efcape with much difficulty, by fwimming his horfe acrofs
the Jumna, and reached the camp of Gholaum Kaudir Khan;
but, not finding a kind reception, in a few days he retired to
Shekohabad, where he was refpe&fully treated by Illummafs Alee
Khan, a collector of the navob vizier, who prefented him with
the fum of a twenty thoufand rupees. Being here joined by about
fifteen hundred of his routed cavalry, and receiving letters from
Gholaum Kaudir Khan, alluring him of future friendfhip, and
apologizing for his late negledt, he repaired to his camp. The
rajas of Jeypore and Jodepore, whofe intereft it was to keep
up an enemy to the Mharattas, now fent him a fum of money,
which enabled him to receive numbers of his followers, who
returned to his ftandard. An invitation was fent him by the
navob Nazir, and the few chiefs with Shaw Aulum to march
to Dhely, which he accepted of; but, on his arrival near the
city, the emperor, who wifhed to avoid offending Sindia by re-

N n 2 ceiving

8 Two thoufand pounds.

284

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

ceiving his enemy, refufed to admit him, and fent him orders to
retire. Ifmaeel Beg pretended to obey, but did not move, wait-
ing the arrival of Gholaum Kaudir Khan, who was on his march
to the capital, with the intention of forcing Shaw Aulum to
give up his connection with the Mharattas. To this he was in-
itiated by the navob Nazir and other officers, who, having of-
fended Sindia, dreaded his difpleafure, Ihould the emperor fall
again into his hands. The fupinenefs of the Mharattas after their
defeat of Ifmaeel Beg, is not to be accounted for. Inftead of
marching immediately to Dhely, Sindia only advanced to Muttra ;
fo that the unfortunate Shaw Aulum was left expofed to the trea-
chery of his fervants, and, in the end, to dethronement, plunder,
and lofs of fight.

Gholaum Kaudir Khan, on his arrival oppofite Dhely, re-
queued the emperor to admit him into the city, but was refufed ;
upon which he refolved to enter it by force ; and, having brought
over Ifmaeel Beg to his views, eroded the Jumna in the night,
with a part of his army. Raja Himmut Bahadur, and the few
Mharattas in the place, fled immediately, and the Mogul chiefs,
with their followers in the emperor’s fervice, joined Ifmaeel Beg ;
fo that the unhappy Shaw Aulum, unable to refill, was obliged
to open the gates of the citadel, and receive the rebels. They
were introduced by the navob Nazir, who anfwered for their
fidelity to his majefty, and that they would free him from the
controul of the Mharattas, and the difgrace of depending for a
fupport on infidels and natural enemies to the faithful. Gholaum
Kaudir and Ifmaeel Beg, falling at the emperor’s feet, allured him,
their only objeCl was his honour, and the expullion of the Mha-
rattas ; which they promifed to effedl, if one of the princes was
permitted to’ accompany them to the field. A treaty was then
drawn up. and folemnly ratified by oaths in one of the mofques
in the palace, by which it was llipulated, that Shaw Aulum fliould

receive

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

receive a third part of the revenues for the fupport of his dig-
nity. The emperor then committed his fon Soleymaun Shekkoh to
their care, and a day was fixed for his march, againfl the Mha-
rattas ; but this adjuflment was deceitful. In a few days, Gho-
laum Kaudir demanded a large fum of money to pay the troops,
which Shaw Aulum refufed ; and the Rohilla refolved to poflefs
himfelf of whatever treafure might be in the palace, by dethron-
ing the emperor. To this refolve he was excited by the trea-
cherous navob a Nazir, who, forgetting thirty years of confidence
and favour, had informed him that his mailer poflefled hoards of
treafure and jewels, though he pretended inability to fatisfy the
troops.

The degraded and wretched fituation of the once augull fa-
mily of Timur, will appear more fully, in the tranflation of a
journal of the m'onilrous tranfadlions of the unfeeling Gholaum
Kaudir, from the dethronement of Shaw Aulum, to the flight
from the city of that cruel traitor.

Jo urnal, July 26th. A,D. 1788.

About feven in the morning, Meerza Ifmaeel Beg with his of-
ficers and Meerza Muttullub Khan, repaired to Gholaum Kaudir,
who was feated in the hall of private audience ; and, after fome
converfation, fent repeated demands of money from the emperor,
through the navob Nazir. Meerza Muttullub obferved, that had
his majefty poflefled fuch a confiderable fum, his affairs would
not have fallen into fuch extremity. He was commanded to be
filent by Gholaum Kaudir ; who, at length fent two attendants to
bring Bedar Bukht, fon of the emperor Ahmed Shaw. This prince
being conducted into the oratory, was feated on the throne, and
the cufliomary falutations of royalty made to him by the chiefs.

Gholaum Kaudir then difpatched Shaw Aulum, with nineteen

princes,

8 The Nazir is the fuperintendant of the private apartments, always a eunuch.

286

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

princes, his Tons and grandfons, under a guard to the apartment
called Noor Mahal. After this a difpute arofe between Gholaum
Kaudir and Ifmaeel Beg, concerning the latter’s remaining in the
palace ; and Ifmaeel Beg at length departed in wrath to his camp.

Saturday,
July 27th,
1788.

Bedar Shaw received the compliments of the officers, and
ordered feveral of the depofed emperor’s fervants into confine-
ment. Soleymaun Shekkoh was brought from the camp, and
imprifoned with his father, who was this day denied even water
by Gholaum Kaudir. The minifters of the general mofque re-
queued to know in the name of what emperor the prayers
were to be read ; and the Rohilla anfwered, “ In the name of
“ God and his prophet.” He this day fent for the aged prin-
cefies', a Mallekeh Zummaneh and Sahebeh Mhal, from their
houfe in the city. On their arrival in the palace, he paid his
refpe&s, and told them the private apartments of the haram
fhould be under their direction. They approved of his condudt,
but warned him not to adl in fuch a manner as to draw
the fcorn of mankind. He replied, that, under the royal auf-
pices, the empire would be properly regulated. The ladies of
Shaw Aulum’s family reprefented, that for two days they had
been without food. He ordered them vidluals.

This

* Thefe ladies were the widows of Mahummud Shaw, and the former was
daughter to the emperor Ferokhfere. When Ahmed Shaw Abdaliee invaded
Hindooftan, they accompanied him on his return to his own territories, and re-
futed in his court till his death ; when they came back to Dhely, and were al-
lowed by Shaw Aulum to refide out of the palace in the city. It is fuppofed they
poflefied great wealth; as both Nadir Shaw and Ahmed bhaw Abdaliee in their
invafions paid them refpefr, and left their property unmolefted; but it now fell
into the hands of Gholaum Kaudir. It is faid, they prompted him to depofe
Shaw Aulum, by an offer of ten lacks of rupees, to place on the throne Bedar
Shaw, the grandfon of their hufband, by a public dancer. If this report is true,
their misfortunes are lefs pitiable, as Shaw Aulum had always treated them with
attention and refpedt during his whole reign.

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

287

This day, the princefs Mallekeh Zummaneh, aflifted by the July 28th,
navob Nazir, fearched the apartments of fourteen of Shaw Aulum’s
women, and ordered all their money and effe&s to be colle£ted in
the oratory ; after which they delivered them to Gholaum Kaudir
Khan. The effedts of Meerza Akber Shaw were confifcated.

Bedar Shaw conferred the rank of arneer al amra on Gholaum
Kaudir Khan. Information was lodged, that Meerza Mindoo
had privately conveyed fourteen cakes of bread and fome water
to Shaw Aulum. The mercilefs Rohilla ordered the benevolent
prince to be beaten with clubs ; but the attendants refufed obe-
dience. Mallekeh Zummaneh fent to Shaw Aulum, deliring
him to give up his buried treafures, and he Ihould be rein-
ftated on his throne. He replied, he was weary of fuch em-
pire. Agga Sundal complained to Bedar Shaw of the diftreffed
fituation of the depofed fovereign and his family, perifhing with
hunger. The Shaw gave him five rupees. The Agga obferv-
ed, the fum was infufficient for fuch a number, even for a
meal. Bedar allured him he had no more money in his pof-
fefiion.

To-day, a quarrel occurred between Bedar Shaw and the July 29th.
Begums Mallekeh Zummaneh and Sahebeh Mhal, who threat-
ened to leave the palace ; obferving, that they had feen four
reigns, and been independant of all ; had come from their
houfes to ferve his family, but would return, and commit him
wholly to the pleafure of Gholaum Kaudir. This filenced the
Shaw. Bedar this day fent to Soleymaun Shekkoh and Akber
Shaw, alluring thefn they Ihould not want while he could re-
lieve them, but that they mull be reconciled to the decrees of
providence, and confider, that their father had reigned thirty
years, while his differed the diftrefs they now complained of.

Gholaum Kaudir Khan, having prepared five whips, obliged the

fultan

288

AURUNG ZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

July 30th.

July 31ft.

♦

Auguft ift,
1788.

fultan to take one in his hands, and accompany him to extort
a confeflion of his treafures from Shaw Aulum.

This day, the apartments of Shawabadee Begum were fearch-
ed, and a cafket of jewels, fome firings of pearl, and gold and
filver plate, being found, were delivered to Gholaum Kaudir;
who alfo feized ninety nine horfes from the royal ftables.
Thirty thoufand rupees were found buried in the floor of a
room, befides fome plate. The Rohilla fent the latter to the
mint, and commanded coins to be ftruck in the name of Bedar
Shaw, with the following infcription :

“ The fupporter of the true religion of Mahummud, Bedar
S( Shaw, by the grace of God flamped coins throughout the
“ world.”

To-day, five rupees, a bed, and a carpet, were fent by
Gholaum Kaudir to the unfortunate Shaw Aulum. Several la-
dies of the haram were tied up and beaten with whips, to
force a difcovery of their effects ; and the palace was filled with
cries and lamentations. Except the garments they had on, every
thing was feized.

Gholaum Kaudir agreed to give Ifmaeel Beg five lacks of
rupees from the plunder of the palace. Several of the confined
princes were infulted by blows j and feven bankers and corn-
merchants feized and imprifoned to extort money from them.

The navob Nazir and the eunuchs reprefented to the em-
peror, that they had by fevere chaftifement extorted a difcovery
from fome of the ladies of the haram of a quantity of gold
and filver plate, with fome jewels. He ordered them to be fent
to Gholaum Kaudir. Meerza Buddoo, an ancient prince, uncle

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

289

to Shaw Aulum, was feized by the Rohilla, and a demand
made of a lack of rupees. Pleading inability, he was delivered
to the peons to be flogged. To-day, Gholaum Kaudir went to
Shaw Aulum, and threatened him. The unhappy prince re-
plied, “ What I had, you have taken; but, if you think I
“ conceal fome treafures within me, rip up my bowels, and
« be convinced.” The traitor then allured him, if he would
difcover his hoards, he fhould reafcend his throne. Shaw
Aulum anfwered, “ I have no ambition left ; may God pro-
“ tedt you, who have laid me alide : I am content with my
«< fate.” The Rohilla then proceeded to the apartments of the
brothers of Shaw Aulum, and threatened them with punish-
ment. Four trunks of wearing apparel, a few trifling jewels,
and a lilve*- bedftead only, were found in them on the flridleft
fearch. The navob Nazir repents, now too late, of his con-
duct ; and will have more caufe every day. Ilmaeel Beg is
treating with Sindia, who has promifed to give him a jaghire
and command in his army.

To-day, perfons were fent to dig up the floors of the apart- Auguft 2d.
ments of Meerza Buddoo. Some jewels, plate, and wearing ap-
parel, were found. The prince and his family were ordered
to be kept without food ; but at the earned: interceflion of
Meerza Hinga, uncle to Bedar Shaw, it was allowed them.

Gholaum Kaudir to-day roughly demanded from the emperor the
whole fum he had promifed for his throne. Bedar Shaw laid,

“ He had given every thing as yet difcovered, and defired the
“ jewels might be valued.” The Rohilla replied, “ Jewels
** were to him of no value ; he muff have money, or plate
“ to coin.” A meffage coming from the princefs Mallekeh
Zummaneh, that She wifhed to fee him, he would not go, but
abufed her to the eunuchs who brought the compliment. Bedar
Shaw entreated him to be pacified, and every exertion fhould
Vol. II. O o be

290

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

Auguft 3d.

Auguft 4th.

be ufed to procure money. The fultan would have embraced
him, but the wretch drew back, and retired in difpleafure ;
after which he fent a band of Afghauns to guard the royal
perfon and extort money. They threatened to pull Bedar Shaw
from his throne, and correct him with blows ; upon which he
exclaimed, “ If this is empire, the fcanty meal I enjoyed when
“ among the confined princes, was fweet indeed.” The Af-
ghauns ordered him to be filent, faying, “ They had ruined
“ Shaw Aulum in an inflant, and what was he better than
“ him.” Guards were alfo placed over the Begums Mallekeh
Zummaneh and Sahebeh Mhalj and Gholaum Kaudir informed
them, “ that as the world would now at any rate call him
“ traitor, he was refolved to feize the whole property of the
** royal family.” The navob Nazir trembles for his fafety, and
has difcharged his attendants. Seven lacks of rupees are de-
manded from him.

To-day, Gholaum Kaudir Khan a feated himfelf in the pre-
fence of Bedar Shaw, and fmoaked his hookah before him ;
firetching out his feet on the royal mufnud, at the fame time
infulting him by abufive language.

Bedar Shaw fent a note by the Nazir to Gholaum Kaudir,
requefling him to have the jewels valued, but he refufed ; de-
manding fix' lacks in money, and would not fuflfer the Nazir to
return. The emperor fending him two garlands of flowers, he
threw them on the ground in difrefpedt. The Begums Mal-
lekeh Zummaneh and Sahebeh Mhal have difcharged their
houfeholds. Ruttun Ram advifing Bedar Shaw to fend a khe-
laut to the navob vizier, he faid, “ I have none but this old
** garment on my body.”

Gholaum

* The higheft difrepeft he could be guilty of to the fovereign.

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

291

Gholaum Kaudir Khan to-day forced the doors of the royal Auguft 5th.
baths ; and finding two filver chairs, fent them to the mint. The
apartments and effects of Meerza Akber Shaw were ranfacked.

Thirty two elephants and one hundred horfes from the royal
ftables were fent to the Rohilla camp. A requeft of Shaw
Aulum for fome foot cloths was complied with.

The thrones and other feats belonging to Shaw Aulum, or- Auguft 6th.
namented with gold or filver, were broken to pieces, and the
plate fent to the mint. Gholaum Kaudir feized the clothes and
ornaments of fifty or fixty dancing girls belonging to the palace.

On their complaining of his opprefiion, he commanded them
to fing and dance, and being pleafed with their performance,
gave them back their clothes, but kept their jewels, and turned
them out of the citadel. After this, he went to the apartments
of the prince Meerza Baber, which were ranfacked ; and fent a
woman to fearch the haram. When every thing was feized,
the prince and the ladies were ordered to be put with the reft
of the royal family in confinement. The dwelling of Meerza
Khoord, brother to Shaw Aulum, was next plundered. The
chief woman fervant of Kirrammut al Nilfa Begum was feized,
and feverely beaten, to make her difcover the effects of her
miftrefs; but lhe would not confefs, and was put into prifon.

The floors of the Begum’s apartments were then dug up, and
fome gold ornaments found. Gholaum Kaudir to-day threatened
Bedar Shaw with punilhment, if he would not fpeedily fup-
ply him with money, as the troops were becoming clamorous
for pay. He then went to Shaw Aulum, and demanded a dif-
covery of the money he had faved from the revenues of Ben-
gal and Aleabad. The Shaw replied, “ that what was in
“ ^e palace was feized; he had no more; and begged to be
“ put to death, that he might be freed from mifery.” The
Rohilla replied, “ he would not hurt him, but force a con-

O o 2 feffion

292

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

Auguft 7th.

“ feflion from his Tons Meerza Akber and Soleymaun Shekkoh.”
Upon which Shaw Aulum faid, “ I am in your hands, but
“ injure not my children.” Gholaum Kaudir threatened the
princes, who declared they knew nothing of their father’s trea-
fury; but informed him, that there was a Calhmirian woman
in the fervice of Koottubee Begum, who, if money was con-
cealed, was informed of it. Upon this the woman was fent for
and queftioned, but confelfed nothing ; when die was confined
for further examination. Bedar Shaw to-day gave Gholaum
Kaudir a pair of gold bracelets 2nd twenty .five thoufand rupees,
which had been difcovered, with which he was well pleafed,
and fent to the Shaw five trays of apparel from the wardrobe,
and five filver plates. Bedar Shaw defired he would carry
him to the general mofque to pay his devotions ; but the Ro-
hilla told him not to be in hade, and he fhould go at a con-
venient time in proper date. The diflention with Ifmaeel Beg
encreafes daily, and that chief is treating with the Mharattas ;
but, till their arrival, waits to get what he can from the plun-
der of the palace. The furniture of the royal elephants was
feized to-day.

Bedar Shaw fent a meflage to Gholaum Kaudir, “ that he
“ had, to gratify him, though unbecoming his dignity as a
“ prince, afiided in rifling the palace, and furrendered the trea-
“ lure difcovered. Nothing more was left, but he was ready
“ to accompany him to the field, and acquire wealth for him
ie with the fword.” Gholaum Kaudir vifited Shaw Aulum, and
told him, “ he was forry for his treafons, but would make
** amends by feating his fon Meerza Akber on the throne.”
Shaw Aulum replied, “ he might adt as he pleafed; but as for
“ himfelf, he was Weary of fuch degraded empire, and only
“ wilhed to be retired, and employ himfelf in devotion.” Bedar
Shaw was feverely threatened this day with correction, if he did

not

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

293

not procure more money ; upon which he replied, “ that he had
“ given all in his power, and fhould be happy to be releafed
“ from fuch mock royalty.”

Bedar Shaw was again threatened with correction and confine-
ment, in cafe he did not produce more money or jewels ; and
again replied, “ that Gholaum Kaudir might aCt as he pleafed.”

In the apartments of Mubaric Mhal, upwards of an hun-
dred women were fearched, and afterwards imprifoned. Mallekeh
Zummaneh was this day violently indifpofed. Bedar Shaw de-
clared to Gholaum Kaudir, t( that there were no more valu-
“ ables left in the palace; but if he chofe, he would attend
“ him to colleCt money from the rajas and zemindars.” The
Rohilla anfwered, “ that if money was not brought him on
“ the morrow, the Shaw muft take the confequence.” Twenty
chefts of lace and tiflues were this day burned by Gholaum
Kaudir, to extraCt the filver. Bedar Shaw requefted an in-
terview, but was rudely refufed in the evening. A meeting
took place between Gholaum Kaudir and Ifmaeel Beg Khan.
The navob Nazir was threatened with flagellation if he did not
produce money.

Gholaum Kaudir, attended by five Rohillas, went to Shaw Aulum
and demanded a difcovery of his hidden treafure. The unfortunate
Shaw replied, “ I have none ; take what you can find in the fort.”
The villain then ordered his attendants to lift up the princes Meerza
Soleymaun, Akber Shaw and others, and dafh them on the
ground ; which they did. Shaw Aulum in the agony of his
grief exclaimed, “ Traitor, forbear fuch cruelty on my children
“ in my fight.” Upon this, Gholaum Kaudir made the Ro-
hillas cafl: him on the ground ; after which they fat upon his
bread:, and ftabbed out his eyes with a dagger. He then gave

, orders

Auguft 8 th.

Auguft 9th.

Aug. 10th.

294

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

Aug. ioth.

Aug. nth.

Aug. 1 2th.

Aug. 13 th.

orders for the like cruelty to be inflidted on the princes, but
was prevented by the entreaties of an officer, named Seetuldafs.
The palace refounded with lamentations among the ladies of
the haram. They were commanded to be lilent, on pain of
chaftifement. In the afternoon, Bedar Shaw was carried into
the city, attended by the Rohilla ; but the latter, lufpedting
treachery from Ifmaeel Beg, returned fuddenly with the Shaw
to the palace. The inhabitants defert the city in crowds. The
bankers’ and jewellers’ {hops have been ffiut up many days.

Two furgeons were fent to attend Shaw Aulum, who lies
in great agony of pain. Some money and effects were fent by
Gholaum Kaudir to Ifmaeel Beg, who is much diffatisfied. A
meeting afterwards took place between them, and they vilited
Bedar Shaw in company.

Shaw Aulum petitioned for fome relief, as his family had
been three days without provifions. Gholaum Kaudir ordered
‘twenty eight rupees per day to be diflributed for their fup-
port.

Gholaum Kaudir Khan ordered an effort to condudt the
plunder of the palace to Ghoffghur. The cooking utenfils of
the royal kitchens were feized this day.

The emperor Bedar Shaw defired the navob Nazir to pre-
pare a mofque in the palace for his devotions ; but was in-
formed, that the carpeting, &c. had been feized. Upon his
importunity, however, fome fort of preparation was made; and
Bedar heard, for the firft time, the prayer read in his own
name as emperor. Two infant fons of the prince Soleymaun
Shekkoh to-day died for want of food. Shaw Aulum difmiffed

his

* About two pounds twelve ftiillings.

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

295

his phylicians, and declined nourilhment, faying, “ it was more
t{ preferable to die, than live, and behold his family perilling
“ around him.” Bedar ordered the children to be buried in
the Mhal. He faid, “ that Shaw Aulum complained unjuftly,

** and Ihould be refigned to the decrees of providence.” Gho-
laum Kaudir paid his devotions at the tomb of Nizam ad Dien,
where he was met by Ifmaeel Beg, and mutual oaths of re-
conciliation palTed between them.

The ladies from feveral apartments of the haram were turned Aug. 14th.
out into a Sulleemghur, and Bedar Shaw was commanded by Gho-
laum Kaudir to dig up the floors in fearch of treafure. Parties of
Mharatta horfe to-day appeared clofe to the city. Shaw Aulum
is in great agony, what he eats voiding by the nofe.

The Rohillas mutinied, and Gholaum Kaudir was obliged Aug. 15th.
to remain clofe in the citadel. Meerza Ifmaeel Beg confined
feveral inhabitants of the city to extort money from them.

Bedar Shaw delired Gholaum Kaudir to think of preparing Aug. 16th.
to refill: the Mharattas, who were now plundering round the
city, and carrying off the cattle and grain. Many angry mef-
fages palled between Gholaum Kaudir and Ifmaeel Beg, con-
cerning the divilion of plunder. At length, the former went
to vilit the latter in the evening to try an accommodation.

Two diamonds, which had been given from the plunder of

Shaw

* Sulleemghur, or Selimghur, is part of the old palace ere&ed by the em-
peror Jehaungeer, whofe name was alfo Sulleem, or Selim. Since the comple-
tion of the new palace by Shaw Jehaun, Sulleemghur has been ufed as a prifon
for the princes of the royal family. It is large, has feveral courts, and gardens
for their recreation. Till the reigning emperor became himfelf in want, they
were allowed every convenience of life, but liberty ; and as they were moftly
born and bred up in confinement, perhaps did not much feel the want of it.

296

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

Shaw Aulum to Bedar Shaw, were this day taken from him by
the Rohilia.

Aug. 17th. To-day, Gholaum Kaudir and Ifmaeel Beg vifited Bedar
Shaw, and demanded money, that they might pay the troops,
and attend him to the field. The Shaw replied, “ that he had
“ none ; but would confign over to them the navob Nazir,
“ from whom they might extort it;” A convoy of baggage, &c.
from Ghofeghur was intercepted by the Mharattas, and many
Rohillas cut to pieces. Numbers were drowned in the Jumna
in trying to efcape from the enemy by fording it. The Mha-
rattas appeared on the bank of the Jumna oppofite the citadel.
Bedar Shaw defired Gholaum Kaudir to march, offering to ac-
company him.

Aug. 1 8th. The Mharattas continued their approaches, all fupplies were
flopped from the city, and the fhops fhut up. Part of the Ro-
hilla army eroded the river, unoppofed by the enemy. Gho-
laum Kaudir went into the apartments of the confined princes,
and ordered the property of Khier al Nifla Begum, filler of
Shaw Aulum, to be feized. Her money, ornaments, and even
the garments fhe had on, were taken. Several princes were
brought before him, whom he addrefled, faying, “ You afpired
“ to empire, give me your treafures for it.” In reply, they
wept, and faid, “ You have taken all we had; there is nothing
“ remaining but our lives.” He then caufed them to be beaten
with whips, and fent them back to confinement. A demand
was made on the Begums Mallekeh Zummaneh and Sahebeh
Mhal for five lacks of rupees.

Aug. 19th. The effects of the two Begums above-mentioned were this
day feized, guards placed on their houfes, and their attendants
lent pnloners to the citadel. A letter was prefented from Shaw

- Aulum

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

297

Aulum requeuing relief, as he and his family were perifhing
with hunger. Gholaum Kaudir threw the letter on the ground,
and exclaimed, “ I came not here of my own will ; but, as
“ I flept in a garden at Secundra, fuddenly an apparition
“ ftruck me on the face, faying, March fpeedily to Dhely, de-
“ pofe the emperor, and feize the country.” Meerza Meendo,
uncle of Shaw Aulum, was to-day fo feverely flogged by or-
ders of the Rohilla, as to faint away, and at length difcovered
a chamber, under the floor of which were fecreted fome large
chefts, two of which were filled with gold coin, and others
with rich cloths. The contents of this hoard were unknown to
Shaw Aulum, and had been depofited there by Shaw Begum
in the laft reign.

A guard was placed over the navob Nazir, and his effe<5ts feized. Aug. 20th.
He was alfo commanded to difcover the hidden treafures of Shaw
Aulum, on pain of punifhment. Bedar Shaw fent a requeft to
Gholaum Kaudir for the releafe of Meerza Buddoo ; but the
meflenger returned without delivering it, the navob being in a
violent rage, which made him fearful of going into his pre-
fence. About nine at night, the Shaw ventured to fend again,
begging that he would, for pity’s fake, allow fome victuals for
the women ; upon which he fent a fmall quantity of oil and
flour. Many ladies of the haram were fearched to-day, and
Rohilla foldiers placed at their apartments. Gholaum Kaudir
came into the oratory, and had much converfation with the
emperor and the Begums Mallekeh Zummaneh and Sahebeh
Mhal; when it was agreed, that the ladies belonging to Bedar
Shaw fliould be removed from the haram, and a Itricft fearch
be made for treafure in every room. Shaw Aulum was fent
for, and ordered to difcover his hoards. He replied, “ that he
“ knew of none, and begged for compaflion on his miferies,

Vol. II. - P p te and

298

Aug. 2 1 ft.

Aug. 22d.

Aug. 23d.

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

“ and his family dying with hunger.” The Rohilia told him,
“ he fhould yet have more calamities to fuffer.”

To-day, Gholaum Kaudir ordered Mallekeh Zummaneh and
Sahebeh Mhal from their chambers into the apartments of Ak-
ber Shaw, and alfo the Begum of Bedar Shaw. Upon this
Bedar Shaw went to him to complain of his infulted honour ;
when the Rohilia turning him back, told him to go and keep
them company; when he retired to them accordingly. Four
ladies died of grief and hunger this day. Their bodies were
thrown into the open court, while Gholaum Kaudir was fur-
veying the labourers, who, by his orders, were bufied in dig-
ging up the floors of the haram. He to-day commanded fome
of the princes to fing for him; and one of his attendants en-
treating him not to be fo difrefpeftful, he exclaimed, “ If they
“ cannot fing, what elfe are they fit for ? They are the off-
“ fpring of fingers. Had they been princes, would they have
“ tamely fuffered me to aft as I have done?”

Bedar Shaw came to Gholaum Kaudir, and requefled him,
from regard to God and the prophet, to allow fome provifion
for his women and children; when the Rohilia frowned flernly
upon him, and uttered much abufive language. The Shaw with
the Begums are now confined in the oftagon turret, fiirrounded
only by fkreens. Gholaum Kaudir fent for Akber Shaw and
other princes to fing and play before him, which they dared
not refufe. After the performance, he exprefled his approba-
tion, and faid, “ Shaw Aulum and his family fhould no longer
“ be diftrefled for neceflaries and food.”

The houfe of the navob Nazir was fearched, but nothing
of much value difcovered. The Rohilia chiefs grow clamorous

for

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

for money. Gholaum Kaudir pretends he has none, and is
dividing among them the effects of the palace.

A daughter of the prince Meerza Toghrul died of hunger,
and was buried in her chamber. Meerza Ifmaeel Beg fent to
enquire of Gholaum Kaudir if he meant to march, as the ene-
my were now furrounding him. Gholaum Kaudir excufed him-
felf for his behaviour to the navob Nazir, by declaring, that he
had feized his property, only left it fhould be fufpedted that he
was his advifer in the plunder of Mallekeh Zummaneh and
Sahebeh Mhal. Parties of the Mharattas appeared to-day clofe
to the old citadel, and carried off fome horfes and bullocks.
Munniar Sing, who commanded the palace guard, having al-
lowed fome provifions to pafs to Shaw Aulum and the other
confined princes, was rebuked feverely by Gholaum Kaudir.

Meerza Ifmaeel Beg threatened Gholaum Kaudir, that if he
would not deliver up his fhare of the plunder, he would leave
him ; and the Mogul chiefs alfo declared, if he remained longer
in the citadel, they would quit his fervice. Gholaum Kaudir
made no anfwer. Mallekeh Zummaneh and Sahebeh Mhal fent
a petition that they might not be left to perifh with hunger,
but rather, be relieved from their miferies by immediate death.
Bedar Shaw threatened to put on a a religious habit; but was
told by the Rohilla, that he muft prepare to march. He re-
plied, that he would not move.

A Bedar Shaw requefted of Gholaum Kaudir to dethrone him,
as he was weary of a dignity which did not afford him and
his family the moft common neceffaries of life. Gholaum

P p 2 Kaudir

,a In Hindooftan, for a perfon under the protection of another to aflume
the habit of a fakeer, or religious, is reckoned difgraceful to the party promifing
protection, and believed to bring down the curfes of heaven upon him.

2 99

Aug. 24th,

Aug. 25th.

Aug. 26th.

■C .

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

Kaudir feized all the horfes of the royal {tables, and diftributed
them among his followers, leaving only fifteen, of little value,
for the Shaw’s ufe. Six ladies of the haram died of hunger,
and their bodies were thrown over the walls of the citadel, on
the fands of the Jumna. On its being reported, that many
others were in a dying ftate, from the fame caufe, Gholaum
Kaudir fent a fmall fupply for the women of Bedar Shaw, but
took no notice of the red:.

Four ladies of Shaw Aulum’s haram, weary of life, threw
themfelves from a window into the river, and were drowned.
Their bodies were dripped by fome foldiers, one of whom was
wounded in a fcuffle for the divifion of the garments. The
unfortunate Shaw Aulum, almoft famiihed, fent a fmall filver
bow ring, by a foldier who pitied his condition, into the market
for fale. It produced only a feven pice, with which fome coarfe
bread was purchafed for his meal. A confiderable fum of
money, many valuable jewels and rich effects, were found in
the houfe of Sahebeh Mhal, and feized by Gholaum Kaudir.

Aug. 28th. Some provifions and apparel were allowed to Shaw Aulum
and his family. Mallekeh Zummaneh and Sahebeh Mhal en-
treated, but in vain, to be allowed to retire to their houfes in
the city. Gholaum Kaudir refufed to vifit Bedar Shaw, though
repeatedly fent for. The navob Nazir was releafed from his
confinement. The (hops in the city are {hut up, owing to
the riotous behaviour of the Rohillas from the dearnefs of grain,
the Mharattas preventing all fupplies from the country.

Aug. 29th. Gholaum Kaudir, in a frolic of intoxication, fent for Akber
Shaw and feveral other princes, fons of Shaw Aulum, to the
lion bailion, where he entertained them with a feafi: and dan-

Aug. 27th.

* About Cxpence.

cmg.

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

301

cing. After fome time, laying his head on the knees of Akber
Shaw, he flept for two hours. On awaking, he wept, fay-
ing, “ he had been guilty of great crimes, and repented of
“ his behaviour ; that he would reftore all the property he
“ had taken, but could not replace the eyes of Shaw Aulum.”

Akber Shaw, after fome confideration, obferved, that “ the pro-
“ vidence which had given eyes to his father, had alfo taken
te them away ; and the inftrument of heaven was not to blame.”

They fat at the entertainment until funrife.

Bedar Shaw went to vifit Gholaum Kaudir, who would not Aug. 30th.
fee him, and ordered him to retire to his apartments. The
women of the haram are in the greateft diftrefs for want of
victuals.

Bedar Shaw, by mefiage, entreated Gholaum Kaudir to order Aug. 31ft,
fome relief to the confined princes and ladies of the haram ;
but was anfwered with angry refufals. Gholaum Kaudir, in
pafiing by the Mhal, was accofted with loud complaints from,
the unfortunate women, who begged him to allow them food,
or let them leave the citadel ; but he palfed on, faying, “ that
“ in four days more he would relieve them.” He went to
the emperor’s bedchamber, and finding a fcymetar on the bed,
took it away; at the fame time commanding the guards not to
let Bedar Shaw come to him on any account.

The troops of Gholaum Kaudir are mutinous for their ar-
rears. He has fpent this day in trying to appeafe them, but
in vain. They threaten to defert him.

Sept. 1 ft.
1788.

Gholaum Kaudir went out to the tomb of Hoomaioon to
pacify the Rohillas. After much argument, one of the muti-
neers, drawing his dagger, rulhed towards him, but was flop-
ped

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

3°2

ped by his companions. At length, the troops were fatisfied
with the afiurance of receiving two months pay immediately,
and Gholaum Kaudir returned to the palace.

Sept. 3d. News arrived that the zemindars in aSarungpore were in
arms ; on which account Gholaum Kaudir has refolved to
march to Ghofeghur, leaving Ifmaeel Beg Khan in Dhely, to
defend it againft the Mharattas.

Sept. 4th. Gholaum Kaudir is preparing for his march. A new quar-
rel has arifen between him and Ifmaeel Beg Khan concerning
the divifion of the plunder.

Bedar Shaw requefled, by meffage, that Gholaum Kaudir
would permit barbers to be admitted to Shaw Aulum and his
fons, who had not been fhaved fince the day of his dethrone-
ment. It was allowed. Gholaum Kaudir has been the whole
day drinking, and liftening to the finging girls.

A wife of the deceafed emperor Ahmed Shaw died in the
palace, and Gholaum Kaudir would not permit the body to be
carried out for interment, though Bedar Shaw entreated his
permiffion. The Rohilla has been this day confulting with his
officers, concerning his defence againft the Mharattas.

Sept. 7th. As Gholaum Kaudir was fitting under a tree this day, a
black fnake fell upon him from one of the branches, but he
received no injury. A quantity of gold and jewels was dis-
covered in the ceiling of a chamber. Part of the Rohilla army
eroded the river, on which the Mharattas retreated to fome
diftance.

- Bedar

* The territory inherited by Gholaum Kaudir from his father Zabtah Khan,

Sept. 5th.

Sept. 6 th.

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

Bedar Shaw obferved to his attendants, that his was a
ftrange empire, for he could not even obtain neceffaries for his
family; that he read the koraun nightly, flept upon the bare
ground, and prayed at midnight, in hopes that God in his
mercy would have pity on his fituation. Gholaum Kaudir re-
viewed his artillery, and is preparing to march.

Gholaum Kaudir continues his preparations to march.

Gholaum Kaudir divided the royal tents among his chief
followers.

Nothing remarkable occurred till the fourteenth, when Gho-
laum Kaudir, alarmed at information of Ifmaeel Beg’s being in
treaty with Sindia to deliver him up to that chief, fuddenly
left the palace, and fwam the Jumna on an elephant to join
the part of his army encamped on the other fide. In a few
days, however, he returned ; and going to Shaw Aulum, allured
him, that though he might reign again if the Mharattas were
victorious, he fhould not enjoy the prefence of his children, as
they fhould be put to death in cafe of his defeat. The favage
Rohilla then obliged all the fons of the unfortunate emperor
to embark in a boat, and crofs the river to his camp. Akber
Shaw making fome refiflance, Gholaum Kaudir drew his fcymetar,
and threatened to kill him if he did not embark, when the
prince was obliged to comply. The plunder of the palace was
alfo all carried off in boats. The day following, the Rohilla
returned to the citadel, and feverely beat Shaw Aulum with
his own hands, threatening to murder all the princes. He then
obliged the aged Begums Mallekeh Zummaneh and Sahebeh
Mhal to go to his camp, in defpite of their lamentations and
entreaties. Then fetting fire to all the combuftible parts of the
citadel, he evacuated it, with his followers, and repaired to his

3°3

Sept. 8th.

Sept. 9th.
Sept. 10th.

3°4

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

camp. Upon his departure, a detachment of Mharattas took
polfeffion of the city and palace. Rana Khan, the chief, re-
leafed Shaw Aulum from his confinement, and ordered refrelh-
ments for the unfortunate emperor and the numerous perfons
in the haram, who, for feven days, had been able to procure
no fuftenance, but dry grain and water. New coins were or-
dered to be ftruck in the name of Shaw Aulum, who was
again treated as emperor; but he wilhed to decline the throne
in favour of Akber Shaw, whom he had always intended for
his fucceflor.

Gholaum Kaudir, a few days after his departure from Dhely,
difgufted at fome behaviour of Bedar Shaw, or hoping to ob-
tain an accommodation with the Mharattas by regaining the
favour of Shaw Aulum, dethroned his newly made fovereign,
and acknowledged, as emperor, Akber Shaw. Such was the
affection of Shaw Aulum to his fon, that on hearing of his
exaltation, he wrote to Gholaum Kaudir and the treacherous
navob Nazir, alluring them of his pardon for the injuries he
had fuRained by their conduct, and thanking them for placing
his fon on the throne. He entreated Rana Khan, the Mha-
ratta general, to acknowledge Akber Shaw; but that chief re-
fufed, laying, “ He could not, while the prince was in fa £t
“ only a prifoner, in the hands of Gholaum Kaudir Khan.”

Rana Khan having fettled affairs at Dhely, and being re-
inforced by navob Alee Bahadur with a confiderable force from
Dekkan, crofied the Jumna, to oppofe Gholaum Kaudir Khan.
That chief, finding it impoflible to Rand againR fo powerful
an enemy, endeavoured to make his retreat into his own coun-
try, but was intercepted. He took refuge in the town of Mhirta,
and made propofals of fubmillion ; but the Mharattas would not
accept them; and on the twenty firR of December, 1788, made a

general

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

3°5

general aflault on the place. Gholaum Kaudir defended him-
felf a whole day againfl: their attacks ; but feeing that he mult
in the end be reduced, he in the night mounted a fleet horfe
and made his efcape, leaving his followers to fliift for them-
felves. He had not rode many miles, when his horfe {tum-
bled, and Gholaum Kaudir was fo bruifed by the fall he re-
ceived, that he could not move. . In this fltuation he was found
by fome villagers, who took him prifoner to the Mharatta camp.
He had, previous to his flight, concealed the moil valuable
jewels acquired from the plunder of the palace, in his faddle
and houflngs. To whole lot this prize fell, is not known, as
the horfe was never found. The navob Nazir, and other chiefs
who had remained in Mhirta, were in the morning obliged to
furrender with the troops at the difcretion of the enemy. Gho-
laum Kaudir was at firft treated with diftmCtion ; but foon put
into heavy irons, with his companion in treachery, the navob
Nazir. Akber Shaw and the other fons of Shaw Aulum, with
the Begums Mallekeh Zummaneh and Sahebeh Mhal, alfo the
depofed Bedar Shaw, were refpeCtfully treated by Rana Khan,
who lent them to Dhely, with a proper efcort for their pro-
tection. Bedar Shaw, was remanded to imprifonment.

The Mharattas poflefled themfelves of Ghofeghur, and the
territories of Gholaum Kaudir Khan. They are now without
a rival in the direction of the emperor, and likely to remain
fo, as long as their own ftate lhall remain free from internal
commotions, and the neutrality of the Englilh and the navob
vizier, with refpeCt to the imperial affairs, be oblerved.

While a prince of the houfe of Timur is efteemed as a
neceflary pageant for the veneration of the people, we fhall
continue to hear of an emperor of Hindooftan ; but it is very
improbable that any future pofleflbr of the throne, will ever
Vol. II. Q^q acquire

AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS.

acquire the fmalleft independance oil the will of the power
which protects his perfon, whether Hindoo or Mahummedan.
The rulers of the different provinces have, as yet, been con-
tented to acknowledge a nominal fubmifhon to an emperor,
from motives of convenience. It has prevented the jealoufy of
their equals, and given a fandtion to their ufurpations with the
people, who have yet regarded the Timur family as the foun-
tain of honours and employments ; but, except over Dhely, a
fmall tradl around it, and during a few years in Korah and
Aleabad, the emperors have had no real territorial authority,
fince the reign of Mahummud Shaw. The Mharattas once
attempted to fet up a fovereign of their own at Dhely a ; and,
fhould they not be interrupted in their prefent career of vic-
tory, may, in a few years, throw alide the family of Timur,
and declare the raja of Sittarra, or their pefhwa, emperor of
Hindooftan, or at leaf! of the extenfive fhare of it in their
potfeffion.

Since this conclufion, the wretch Gholaum Kaudir was
punifhed by Sindia. His ears, nofe, arms, and legs, were cut
offj and in this mutilated hate he was fent to Shaw Aulum,
but died on the road to Dhely. Shaw Aulum has reaffum-
ed the throne, if fuch it may be called, and fublifts on the
bounty of Sindia, who is employed in reducing the Jeypore
country.

1792*

By the laft advices, Sindia had levied contributions from
the Jeypore, Odipore, and Jodepore rajas, and obliged them to

cede

* The failure of which attempt has been related in the defeat of the Bhaow,
by the Abdallee Shaw, in the preceding pages.

SHAW AULUM THE SECOND.

cede Tome parts of their country, and pay tribute for the reft.
Shaw Aulum continues a mere penfioner on this chief. The
fucceffes of the Englifh, Nizam, and Mharattas againft Tippoo
Sultan, and the partition of his territories, promife fome con-
tinuance of peace to Hindooftan ; where it is probable, how-
ever, the fun of Timur has fet for ever.

•ND OF AURUNGZEBE’s SUCCESSORS
IN THE EMPIRE OF HINDOOSTAN.

307

/ . <v

4i.

•%

PART VI.

HISTORY OF BENGAL,

FROM THE ACCESSION OF

ALIVERDEE KHAN MAHABUT JUNG,

PREFACE.

It was fuppofed, that an account of the affairs of Bengal,

with which we are fo nearly concerned, would be more agree-

able to the reader feparately detailed, as its connection muft
have been frequently broken off by the events in other pro-
vinces, if inferted in the general hiftory of the empire.

Bengal, fince the death of Mahummud Shaw, like the other
provinces, has been nearly independant of the emperors ; the
feveral navobs remitting only a trifling part of the revenues to
court, and the Englifh government, fince the departure of Shaw
Aulum in 1 77 1 from under our prote&ion, has ceafed to pay
any other acknowledgment of his fovereignty, than ufing his
name on the coin and in fome of the orders of adminiftration
to native officers ; if we except a few inconfiderable prefents
offered him on the great Mahummedan feftivals.

At the death of Aurungzebe, and for fome years prior to
that event, Bengal was governed by Moorfhud Koollee Jaffier

Khan,

3*2

PREFACE.

Khan, of whom an account has been published by Mr. Glad-
win, and alfo of his fucceffor Shujah ad Dowlah. His fon
Serferauz ad Dowlah was depofed by Mahabut Jung, ftiled
alfo Aliverdee Khan, whofe life begins the following pages.
This was compiled from a Perfian manufcript. The tran-
fadtions from his laft illnefs were tranflated from the Perfian
hiftory of Bengal, as literally as poflible, of 3 Gholaum Houf-
fein Khan, a learned and refpedtable character, once of
greater confequence, but now, if living, a member of the na-
tive court of judicature under the moil worthy navob Alee
Ibrahim Khan j the eftablifhment of which by Mr. Hastings
reftored juflice and police to a great capital, in' which they had
long been negledted.

* An Englifh tranflation of this has, I underftand, been publifhed in Calcutta,
by Muftapha, a French muflulmaun, which I fliould have wifhed to have com-
pared with my own, but have not been able to procure it.

HISTORY

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

Mahabut Jung was originally named Meerza Mahummud
Alee. His father, Meerza Mahummud, an officer in the fer-
vice of the prince Azim Shaw, on the death of his patron
falling into diftrefs, moved from Dhely to Cuttac, the capital
of Oriffia, in hopes of mending his fortune under Shujah ad
Dowlah, a diflant relation to his wife. Shujah ad Dowlah was
fon in law to Jaffier Khan, foubahdar of Bengal, from whom
he held Oriffa, as deputy governor. He received his relation
with kindnefs, appointing an allowance for his fupport ; which
induced Meerza Mahummud to fend for his fon, who accordingly
repaired to Cuttac, and was entertained by Shujah ad Dowlah
in his ferviee, at a monthly ftipend of one hundred rupees. In
a ffiort time, the abilities of Mahummud Alee engaging the
efteem of his patron, he gradually entrufted him with com-
mands againft rebellious zemindars, in which he proved himfelf
worthy of confidence, and was generoufly rewarded by higher
trufts. He now invited his elder brother Hajee Ahmud, then
returning from a pilgrimage to Mecca, to join him ; and on
his arrival he, as alfo his three fons, Mahummud Reza, Ma-
hummud Saeed, and Mahummud Hafhim, were enrolled in the
Vol. II. R r ferviee

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

fervice of Shujah ad Dowlah, at falaries of fifty, thirty, twenty,
and fifteen rupees per month ; but as the influence of Ma-
hummud Alee encreafed, they were proportionably raifed to
higher employments.

Jaffier Khan, being difpleafed at Shujah ad Dowlah’s hav-
ing neglected his daughter for other women, left at his death
the fucceflion to his government to his grandfon Alia ad Dowlah
Serferauz Khan ; but Shujah ad Dowlah having more intereft
at the court of Dhely than his fon, procured the l'oubahdary
for himfelf; when Serferauz Khan dutifully l'ubmitted to his
authority, on promife of fucceeding his parent, and continued to
hold the office of a imperial dewan under him.

Shujah ad Dowlah, thinking himfelf greatly indebted to the
abilities and fidelity of Mahummud Alee and Hajee Ahmud,
for his eafy acquifition of the government of Bengal, purfued
no meafure without their advice. On the former he beftowed
the k fojedaury of Raujemahal, and procured for him from the
emperor a cmunfub and the title of Aliverdee Khan. The latter
was appointed fuperintendant of the cufloms of Moorfhudabad,

and

a Superintendant of the cohesions. While the authority of the emperors
was properly obferved, the dewan of a province managed the revpnues, and
the nazim, or fouba1 dar, had no power over them, his office being tolely that of
commander in chief and difpenfer of criminal law ; but as the empire declined,
he ufurped the rights of the dewan, whofe office became nominal only. Lord
Clive obtained it for the company, who reclaimed the proper exertion of the
office, but have not for fome years remitted any part of the revenue to Dhely.
During Shaw Aulum’s refidence under their protection, he received annually
twenty fix lacs of rupees ; but on quitting it, this tribute was withheld.

k The fojedaur in his diltriCt had the fame authority as the nazim of a
province j but latterly, his office has been confined to the fuperintendance of
police.

c Commander of a body of cavalry, fometimes nominal only, for the pur-
pofe- of giving a title, as all rank is military in Hindooltan,

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

3IS

and his three Tons to considerable employments. Thefe diStinc-
tions were but the paths to higher offices, as, in a ihort time
after, the province of Bahar being conferred by the emperor
on Shujah ad Dowlah, he entrusted the government of it to
Aliverdee Khan, obtaining for him additional rank, and the
title of d Mahabut Jung. Hajee Ahmud was created dewan to
the navob, and his fons raifed to the governments of large dif-
tricfts in Bengal and Bahar.

Shujah ad Dowlah after twelve years’ government of Ben- A. H. 1151
gal, (the inhabitants of which Still Speak with veneration of the
lenient exercife of his authority,) dying, was fucceeded by his
fon Alla ad Dowlah Serferauz Khan, a young prince, whofe
character as a moral and religious man Hands high on the pages
of native hiftory. EufufF Alee Khan, who writes that of Ma-
habut Jung, and Strives to apologife for his ufurpation, as the
effedt of neceffity and felf-defence, fays, “ Serferauz Khan was
“ a prince of exemplary virtue ; for though he poffeffed every
“ incitement to voluptuoufnefs in addition to the feafon of
“ youth, yet he was not addicted to fenfual enjoyments ; and
“ during hs ffiort government, in the courfe of which I was
“ constantly with him, I never beheld in his conduct even a
“ tendency towards a vicious adiion. But, alas ! he was ig-
“ norant of the arts of policy, and poffeffed not an addrefs or
“ manners to conciliate the world, fo that he became a prey
“ to the machinations of his enemies.”

Serferauz Khan at firft confirmed all the fervants of his
father in office, but Shortly, impelled by the clamour of his
own dependants, who naturally wished to Share in the advan-
tages of government, he took the dewanny* from Hajee Ahmud,
and removed his friends Aulum Chund Royroyan and Juggutt

R r 2 Sect

a Impreffing terror in war.

3l6

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

Seet from their employments ; which gave much difguft to the
a two brothers, who had for fome years, through their influence
with Shujah ad Dowlah, governed Bengal. Hajee Ahmud re-
folved on the deftru&aon of his matter, and privately concert-
ed with Mahabut Jung to depofe him; but at the fame
time had the addrefs to make Serferauz Khan believe, till too
late, that he was attached to his interetts, and even to perluade
him to dilband a great part of his army, fo unneceffarily ex-
penfive in a time of profound peace. He pretended that he
was weary of the cares of office, and to thank the navob for
relieving him of a burden, and giving him the indulgence of
religious retirement in his old age ; at the fame time expreff-
ing his readinefs to give his advice on public affairs. His
hypocrify fucceeded on the unfufpedting mind of the prince,
though he was frequently warned by friends of the danger of
confiding in a difplaced minifter, and continuing his fons and
dependants in the government of diftridts, which they yet en-
joyed. He even communicated to Hajee Ahmud advice which
had been given him to feize the perfons of himfelf and fa-
mily ; but this mark of lincerity, inftead of gaining their loyalty,
only ferved to make them hatten the work of treachery, lett
the navob fhould in time be prevailed upon to follow the
wholefome counfel of his real friends. The apologifts of Ma-
habut Jung fay, that he had originally no defigns on Bengal,
but wiflied only to be continued in the government of Bahar;
and would not have confpired againtt his patron, had he not
been perfuaded by his brother, that his office and even life
was in danger. Be this as it may, fome months after his ac-

ceffion,

a It has been faid, (hdfo truly I know not, as I have heard it contradi&ed
by many peifons) that the following circumftance encreafed the difguft of the
Seets. A near relation of their’s, a young lady of uncommon beauty, was forced
to fhew herfelf to the navob, who, however, did not offer any other injury;
but this was one, not to be forgiven confiftent with Indian honour.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

ceflion, Serferauz Khan, who had not yet received the royal
grants of confirmation in his government, received intelligence
from his agent at Dhely, that Mahabut Jung had employed
emilfaries to bribe the imperial ministers, and obtain for him-
felf the foubahdary of Bahar independantly, if not of Bengal.
It is mofi probable that this information was true, as the court
of Dhely was become notorioufly corrupt) and even its weak-
nefs made the emperor, on the vacancy of government, deaf
to jufter claims, and beflow the fucceffion on him whofe force
was the ftrongeft, as the only mode of preferving an acknow-
ledgment of his authority.

Serferauz Khan now began to be alarmed ; and, in order
to reduce the influence of Mahabut Jung, he recalled the troops
Stationed with him in Bahar; but they did not obey him. He
next tried conciliatory meafures to gain his attachment, and
propofed an alliance between his own fon and a niece of Hajee
Ahmud ; but this offer was rejected, and taken hold of as a
pretence for rebellion, under colour of the young lady’s having
been already betrothed to another, which made the propofal an
indignity to the whole family, that ought to be revenged.
Hajee Ahmud and his fons wrote heavy complaints of this in-
fult to Mahabut Jung, affuring him, that the navob meant
forcibly to celebrate the nuptials, and unlefs he fhould prevent
them, by fpeedily marching to Bengal and refcuing the lady
and themfelves from his power, their family would be dishonour-
ed, and perhaps cut off in defending their reputation, by the
tyrant. To account for the felf- Security of Serferauz Khan at
this period is impoffible; for, though informed that Mahabut
Jung was encreafing his forces, and that he entertained trea-
sonable defigns, Hajee Ahmud and his fons were left at liberty,
and Atta Oollah Khan, the father of the young lady, in com-
mand of the frontier Station towards Bahar ; nor did he take

the

3*7

318

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

the precaution to colledt his troops. Suddenly he received ad-
vice, that Mahabut Jang had arrived at Raujemaha), not more
than three days’ march from the capital, with his army, hav-
ing gained the paffes by the connivance of Atta Ooliah Khan,
the fojedaur of that diftrid:. From hence he had a letter from
the rebel, fetting forth, that as the indignities offered to his
family had amounted to perfonal difhonour, he had marched
thus far without orders, bat hoped he fhould not be obliged to
come to extremities he wifhed to avoid; and promifing to re-
tire, if the navob would fend his brother and nephews with
their families and effedts to his camp.

Serferauz Khan on this occafion rejeded the advice of his
friends to confine Hajee Ahmud, who, with folemn altera-
tions, declaring that Mahabut Jung would on his being allow-
ed to vifit him, retire to his government, unlefs the navob
fhould invite him to his prefence as a mark of favour, was
permitted to depart with his family. The navob difpatched with
him two confidential perfons, to allure Mahabut Jung of his
regard, and learn, if polhble, his real intentions. At the fame
time, he moved from the capital with about four thouiand
horfe, and proceeded by eafy marches towards the rebel. On
the fourth day his agents returned, bringing him aflurances
from Mahabut Jung that he was loyal to his perion and go-
vernment ; but requefled that Ghofe Mahummud Khan and
others, who he knew had prejudiced the navob againlt him,
might be removed from court, that he might fafely come and
pay his refpeds; alfo, that feven lacks of rupees would be
given to pay the arrears of thofe troops who had been detached
with him from Bengal by the late navob.

Serferauz Khan now was not to be longer deceived. He
faw the demands of the rebel in their true light, as made only

. ~ to

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

31 9

to deprive him of his real friends, and render him a defence-
lefs prey to treachery; but, inftead of boldly continuing his
march, he imprudently oppofed art to art ; in which he was
unequal. He feemingly affented to the requeffs of Mahabut Jung,
while he fent emiffaries with large fums to bribe his followers
to defert him ; but they betrayed their commiffion, and the rebel
taking immediate advantage of the navob’s fecurity in the fuc-
cefs of his fcheme, while negotiations were depending, furprized
his camp. Serferauz Khan was flain, it is fuppofed, by the
treachery of his attendants, in the beginning of the attack. His
troops, after a very gallant refiffance, in which fuccefs often
remained doubtful, were defeated, and Mahabut Jung became
by his vidtory, foubahdar of Bengal, Bahar, and Orilfa. Ser-
ferauz poffeffed the government only one year and two months,
being in his thirty fixth year at the time of his death, which
happened in the year 1739.

Two days after his vidtory, Mahabut Jung entered the capital,
and repairing firft to the apartments of Nuffeefa Begum, daugh-
ter to Shujah ad Dowlah, entreated her pardon for the daughter
of her brother, and allured her of his protedtion to herfelf and
the furvivors of her family. He then afcended the mufnud in
the hall of audience, and his authority as foubahdar was ac-
knowledged by the officers of government and inhabitants of
the city. Having pofleffed himfelf of the treafures of the un-
fortunate Serferauz Khan, which had accumulated to an im-
menfe amount by the favings of his grandfather and father, and
had not been diminifhed, Mahabut Jung fent a corore of rupees
in money, and to the amount of feventy lacs in jewels, plate,
and rich goods, as an offering to the emperor; who, in re-
turn for this mark of obedience, fhortly after confirmed him
in the government of the three foubahs of Bengal, Bahar, and
Oriffa. It i$ faid, thefe fums were but a trifling part of his

acquifitions.

32°

HISTORY OF BENGAL,

acquifitions. He conferred large fums on his relations and ad-
herents, and bellowed an ample gratuity on the troops. Having
arranged the affairs of Bengal, he prepared to reduce Orifia,
which was as yet unfubdued to his government.

Moorfhud Koollee Khan, deputy governor of Orifia, fon in
law to Shujah ad Dowlah who had married the lifter of the
late navob, on his overthrow had at firft quietly acknowledged
Mahabut Jung as foubahdar, and was continued in office ; but
foon afterwards, at the inftigation of his wife and Baukir
Khan, his fon in- law, who reproached him with cowardice in
fubmitting to a traitor, he withdrew his allegiance, and pre-
pared to revenge the murder of his brother in law ; for which
purpofe he levied an army, and invited the officers of the late
navob to join his ftandard againft the ufurper.

Mahabut Jung, on intelligence of his defigns, regarding
them as the effect of artful perfuafion on his mind, was wil-
ling if poffible to avoid a rupture, and wrote letters of afturance
that he had no enmity towards him ; but, as circumltances had
rendered his flay in his territories hazardous for the peace of
both parties, he entreated he would remove either to Dhely by
way of Moorfhudabad, or to Dekkan, which was nearer Cut-
tac, with his family and effects. Moorfhud Kooiiee Khan, juftly
fearing oppofition to Mahabut Jung fruitlefs, would have fol-
lowed this advice ; but his wife and Baukir Khan, by threats of
depriving him of his wealth and imputations of cowardice,
prevailed upon him to anfwer the navob’s letters by infults and
defiance. Mahabut Jung upon this, leaving his brother Hajee
Ahmud and his nephew Shawamut Jung in charge of his capital,
moved with an army towards Cuttac.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

321

On intelligence of his approach, Moorfhud Koollee Khan
having fummoned his friends to a confultation, laid his fabre
before them, and after inveighing againft the ufurpation and
treachery of Mahabut Jung, declared his intentions of oppoling
him, fhould they be firm in fupport and attachment j but otherwife,
to retire to fome place of fecurity with his family. The affem-
bly unanimoufly allured him of their fidelity and readinefs to
engage in war, and the chiefs of the army at his requefl re-
girt the fabre round his waift. After this, he moved from
Cuttac, and encamped in a ftrong fituation, furrounded by thick
woods and a river, fortifying his camp with nearly three hun-
dred pieces of cannon.

Mahabut Jung fpeedily arrived on the bank of the river,
within a few miles of the enemy, and halted long, being inca-
pable of dillodging him from his fecure pofition. In this fitu-
ation his camp was but ill fupplied with provifions, the zemindars
being attached to Moorfhud Koollee Khan, and cutting off his
convoys, lo that the troops foon began to murmur. Meer-
za Baukir Khan, learning the difiatisfadlion of the navob’s
army, contrary to the remonftrances of Moorfhud Koollee Khan,
at length imprudently moved from his camp and offered bat-
tle ; which was gladly accepted by Mahabut Jung. The en-
gagement was long and bloody, but finally decided in favour
of the latter. Moorfhud Koollee Khan, his fon in law, and chief
dependants, made good their retreat to Balafore, a feaport town,
from whence they embarked on board fhips, and arrived fafely
at Maffulipatam, on the coafl of Coromandel, where they were
generoufly received by the fojcdaur, Anwer ad Dien Khan. The
raja of Ruttepore, on the borders of Oriffa, hearing of their
flight, with a magnanimous humanity detached a force to Cut-
tac, and brought off their families and treafure in fafety to his
Vol. II. S f refidence.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

refidence, where he delivered them to Baukir Khan, who was
fent to receive them.

Mahabut Jung after his vidlory marched to Cuttac, and hav-
ing arranged the affairs of the province, entrufted the govern-
ment to his nephew Sowlut Jung, one of the fons of Hajee
Ahmud. He then returned to Moorlhudabad, and employed
himfelf in regulating the concerns of Bengal, in which he con-
sulted the eafe and fatisfadtion of the public. To the women
and dependants of the late navob he granted liberal allowances,
and allotted them lands and houfes at Dacca, where they re-
tired. Nuffeefa Begum, lifter to Alla ad Dowlah, having accepted
the fuperintendance of the haram of Shawamut Jung, was treated
with the higheft refpedl, and the revenue of the * Khaufs Ta-
look and all eftates bought by her grandfather, Jaffier Khan,
left at her difpofal. A fon of her brother’s, born on the day
of his death, whom fhe had adopted, was permitted to refide
with her, and treated with parental fondnefs by Mahabut Jung
and his nephew.

Sowlut Jung, in his government of Cuttac did not adt with
that prudence becoming his lituation. He vexed the adherents
of Moorfhud Koollee Khan, who had remained in the province
under promife of not being molefted in their eftates, by fines
and extortion, on pretence that they had fecreted money be-
longing to their late chief; and, being much addidted to plea-
fure, was guilty of exceffes in procuring women for his haram
from the inhabitants. To thefe oppreftions he added an impo-
litic negledl of the troops ftationed with him by his uncle, in
leffening their pay to garrifon allowance, which gave great dif-
guft, fo that numbers left his fervice. Their places he filled

with

a A dlftrift round Moorfhudabad, of which Jaffier Khan had purchafed the
proprietary.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

with natives of Cuttac, who, for the fatisfa&ion of living at
home, accepted of a trifling falary. Thefe men were fecretly
attached to the late governor, whofe fon in law now refided
on the borders of the province, in hopes of opportunity offer-
ing to renew his attempts. The conduit of Sowlut Jung be-
coming daily more oppreflive to the people, they at length
invited Moorfhud Koollee Khan to return but he was too fond
of his prefent retirement to hazard his perfon, and rejected their
offers. They then had recourfe to Baukir Khan, who gladly
accepted their promifes of fupport j and meafures were fo fecretly
contrived, that Sowlut Jung was fuddenly taken prifoner in his
palace in a general infurreition of the people, and delivered to
Baukir Khan, who affumed the government of Cuttac.

Mahabut Jung, on intelligence of this event, loflt no time
in preparing to remedy the difafter. His brother Hajee Ah-
mud, and the mother of Sowlut Jung, apprehenflve for the
fafety of their fon, would have prevailed upon him to give
up Orifla lo Baukir Khan on promife of allegiance, and at-
tributed his fuccefs to aids he had received from Nizam al
Moolk, whom it would be impolitic to difpleafe, as it might
bring upon him the force of Dekkan and lofs of Bengal ; but
he paid no attention to their advice. In a fhort time his forces
were ready ; and, having left Shawamut Jung in the command
of Moorfhudabad, he began his march at the head of twenty
thoufand horfe and foot. As an encouragement to his chiefs,
he had ordered them to make conflderable additions to their
corps, and promifed a reward of a lac of rupees to the perfon
who fhould recover Sowlut Jung from captivity, and if he Ihould
be the commander of a corps, to give two months pay ad-
ditionally to each man.

&f 2

Baukir

324

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

Baukir Khan, on the approach of the navob, entrenched
himfelf on the banks of the Mahanuddee ; but having little
hope of fuccefs againft fo powerful an enemy, fent off his bag-
gage and family to Dekkan. Refolved that Sowlut Jung fhould
not furvive his defeat, he placed him in a covered arutt under
the charge of two Moguls, who had orders to kill him, fhould
the troops of Mahabut Jung purfue and come up with them.
To make his death the furer, he privately ordered the efcort of
horfe who guarded the carriage, on the approach of an enemy,
to thruft their fpears into it, and deftroy both the vidtim and
the executioners. Mahabut Jung attacked the entrenchments of
Baukir Khan, who was deferted in an inftant by his troops,
too much intimidated to make refiftance j and the vidtors pur-
fued fo clofely, that they fpeedily overtook the efcort of Sowlut
Jung, when numerous fpears were thruft into the carriage,
and one of the Moguls was killed, but Sowlut Jung efcaped
unhurt, by the wounded man’s falling upon him. The other
Mogul was flightly wounded, and made his efcape, while the
purfuers were releafing their recovered prince. Mahabut Jung
having returned thanks for his eafy vidtory, and the fafety of
his nephew from fuch imminent danger, fent him, with a
confiderable force for his protection, to his parents at Moor-
fhudabad, not thinking it prudent to entruft him again with
the government of Cuttac. The women and family of Sowlut
Jung, who had been detained prifoners in a fortreis, were re-
leafed on news of the vidtory by the garrifon, and efcorted
fafely to him. The navob, having regulated the affairs of the
recovered province, gave the deputation of it to an officer of
experience, named Mahummud Mafoom j and apprehending no
new danger near, permitted moft of the troops to retire to their
homes, while he, with only his principal chiefs and about five
thoufand horfe, marched flowly towards his capital, enjoying

the

* A carriage drawn by oxen.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

325

the amufement of hunting on the way ; but this calm was
fuddenly overcaft by ftorms, which threatened his deltrudtion,
and the defolation of the provinces.

Mahabut Jung was encamped near Midnapore, when intelli-
gence arrived that Bolkar Pundit had been detached by Rago-
jee Bhofelah, the Mharatta chief of Berar, at the head of forty
thoufand horfe, to demand the achoute of Bengal, and was
rapidly advancing towards him ; but the navob, not expedting
that they would enter by Orifla, was little alarmed at the re-
port, as he had received advice of their intention to pafs through

Bahar, and had intended on his return to the capital to take

meafures to refill: them, for which he fancied he Ihould have
ample time before they could reach that province. In this,
however, he was miftaken, as an exprefs fuddenly arrived that
the enemy was within twenty cofs of his camp. Mahabut Jung
upon this haftened his march to Burdwan, a confiderable town,
intending to place in it his heavy baggage, and engage the
Mharattas. Shortly after his arrival they appeared, and laid wafte
the environs of the camp with fire and fword. Some Ikirmifhes
took place with little lofs on either fide ; the enemy, whofe
objedl was plunder only, not chufing to rilk a general adtion.

Some days pafled in this manner, when Bolkar Raow propofed

evacuating the country for a contribution of ten lacs of rupees,
but this was refufedj and Mahabut Jung refolved to pulh his
way to Moorlhudabad, where he could recruit his fcattered
force. He iflued orders for the greatell part of the heavy bag-
gage and camp followers to remain at Burdwan, but in vain,
as they were too much alarmed to trull: themfelves in the town ;
but the confequence of their difobedience was nearly fatal. On
the firll day’s march, the Mharattas furrounded the line, and

Mahabut

• A fourth part of the revenues, which the Mharattas demanded from every
province. This claim is explained in the account of Dekkan.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

Mahabut Jung, unable to defend the numerous crowd of ufe-
lefs attendants and market people of his army, now reduced to
lefs than five thoufand fighting men, had the mortification of
lofing the chief part of his baggage, artillery, and tents. When
he halted for the night, only a fmall tent could be procured
for his reception. He now difpatched a meflenger with offers
to pay the ten lacks of rupees to the Mharattas ; but Bofkar
Raow refufed, and demanded a a corore, with all the elephants
belonging to the navob. Mahabut Jung refufed fuch degrading
concefiions, and the next day proceeded on his march, which
was harafied as ufual, and what little baggage remained fell a
prey to the enemy ; who, however, could make no impreflion
on the main body, and were often repulfed from the charge.
For three days a running fight was kept up, during which the
greatefi: difirefs for provifions and fhelter from heavy rain was
experienced by the troops of Mahabut Jung. On the fourth he
reached Cutwa, which the Mharattas had laid wafle, and de-
ftroyed large magazines of grain by fire ; but enough remained,
though in a parched ftate, to be an acceptable fupply to an
army almoft perifhing with hunger. Here the navob encamped,
on the bank of the river Bhaugruttee, fecured by his pofition
from further infult of the enemy; and having written to his
capital of the fituation he was in, Sowlut Jung joined him ex-
peditioufly with a confiderable reinforcement, and plentiful lup-
plies of provifions from the oppofite bank of the river, which
was yet unmolefted by the enemy.

Bofkar Pundit, the Mharatta general, from the fear of pair-
ing the rains in the country of an enemy who had fo gal-
lantly oppofed him, would have now retreated to Berar ; but
Meer Hubbeeb, an officer of Mahabut Jung’s, who had been
taken prifoner and accepted the fervice of the Mharattas ad-

vifed

3 Upwards of a million fterling.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

vifed him to remain, offering to provide fubfiftance for his army,
and to guide a detachment to Moorfhudabad, which might eafily
be plundered, it being unfortified. Bofkar relifhed his propofal,
and entrufted him with the command of fome thoufand horfe.
The navob, having intelligence of this defign, left Cutwa, and
haftened to the capital, where he arrived one day after Meer
Hubbeeb, who had already plundered the fuburbs, efpecially the
factory of Juggut Seet, to the amount of three lacs of rupees.
On the arrival of Mahabut Jung he retreated, and prevailed on
Bofkar to encamp at Cutwa for the rainy feafon j and the navob,
fatisfied with having preferved the city from plunder, deferred
further operations till he could recruit his army, and ftrengthen
the capital by new works. The enemy, while the fords per-
mitted, two or three times advanced to Plaffey and Daoodpore;
not many miles diftant from Moorfhudabad, plundering the vil-
lages, till the fwelling of the Bhaugruttee confined them to the
oppofite fhore. During the rains, Bofkar Pundit, by means of
Meer Hubbeeb, poffeffed himfelf of Hughly, Injalee, and all
the diftridts of Burdwan and Midnapore as far as Balafore, alfo
Bheerbhoom, Raujefhawee, and Raujemahal ; fo that, except
Moorfhudabad and its environs, nothing remained to the navob
weft of the Ganges in Bengal j but the diftrifts to the eaft of
that river afforded him ample refources. The inhabitants of
the capital, during the rainy feafon, for the moft part moved
with their families and effects acrofs the Ganges for the greater
fecurity. The families, treafures, and valuables of Mahabut
Jung and his relations, were alfo fent over that river to Go-
dagauree, under the care of Shawamut Jung, who returned to
the capital after he had provided a place of fafety for them.

Mahabut Jung paffed the rainy feafon in railing new levies
and encouraging his troops j to whom he diftributed ten lacs
of rupees, which he had promifed them when furrounded by

the

328

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

the Mharattas. The dry weather had not yet commenced,
when he marched from Moorfhudabad, and eroded the Bhaug-
ruttee over a bridge of boats, without oppofition from the ene-
my, who ftill continued in their camp at Cutwa, which was
divided from the navob’s army by a deep rivulet, much fwoilen
by the rains. Mahabut Jung during the night ordered a bridge
of boats to be thrown acrofs it, which was done without being
perceived by the enemy. About midnight, Meer Jaffier Khan,
Muflapha Khan, and other chiefs, at the head of a chofen
body, began to crofs. Half of this detachment had fcarcely
reached the oppolite bank, when a boat in the middle of the
bridge was loofened, and funk by the weight of paflengers ;
and the troops in the rear prefling on, numbers were puflied
in and drowned, before the accident was difeovered. Six hun-
dred men are faid to have perifhed in this manner ; but fuch
was the ardour of the troops and conduct of Mahabut Jung,
that the accident was foon repaired, and by daylight the whole
army had croffed, and prepared to attack the enemy. Bofkar
Raow was fo intimidated at this bold and unexpected meafure,
that he fled with the utmofl: precipitation, leaving great part
of his baggage and tents behind him ; but was fo rapidly pur-
fued, as to lofe a conflderable number of men within two cofs
of Cutwa, where he tried to make a ftand, but in vain, his
troops flying on the navob’s approach. He continued his re-
treat to the woods of Pacheet, and was followed by Mahabut
Jung fo clofely, that finding it impoflible to gain the palfes by
this route, he changed it, by advice of Meer Hubbeeb, and
returned into the forefts of Bifhenpore, fo as to deceive his pur-
fuers, and gain the open country by way of Chunderkoona into
Midnapore. Here he encamped, and detached a force againfl:
Cuttac, which was but ill defended by troops ; and the gover-
nor, Mafoom Khan, rafhly marching out with his fmall force,
was defeated and flain.

Mahabut

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

329

Mahabut Jung having at laft procured intelligence of the
change of the enemy’s route, marched back, and haftened to
Burdwan. From thence he advanced to Midnapore, where Bofkar
Raow, encouraged by his late fuccefs againft Mafoom Khan, gave
him battle, but was defeated with great daughter, and fled by
way of Cuttac, to the borders of his own country. The navob,
not thinking it neceflary to purfue beyond his own territories,
now completely evacuated by the enemy, having entrufted the
government of Cuttac to Abd al Ruflool Khan, returned triumph-
antly to his capital. The emperor Mahummud Shaw, as a mark
of approbation, now conferred upon him the title of a Hifham
ad Dowlah, with a khelaut, fword and dagger fet with jewels,
alfo a flrpeach and collar of pearls. The title of bItifham ad
Dowlah was conferred on Shawamut Jung, that of c Mahaum ad
Dowlah on Sowlut Jung, and that of d Hitteram ad Dowlah on
Hybut Jung, his three nephews ; and inferior ranks and titles
on the principal officers of his army, -

Mahabut Jung, on the firfl: invafion of the Mharattas, had
applied to the emperor for affiftance ; and Suffder Jung, navob
of Oude, was ordered with his troops into Bengal, but had ad-
vanced no farther than Patna, the capital of Bahar, when Bofkar
Raow was defeated. Mahabut Jung, encouraged by victory, now
thought himfelf fully equal to the defence of his provinces ;
and informing Suffder Jung that he had no further occaflon for
fuccours, requefted him to quit Patn^ and return home, which
he did, though with fome reluctance, having intended, it is faid>
had Mahabut Jung been worfted by his enemy, to have added
Bahar to his own government. During his ftay at Patna, he
Vol. II. T t had

* Force of the ftate.

b Eminent in the ftate.

* Regulator of the ftate.

d Dignifier of the ftate.

33°

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

had fele&ed fome pieces of artillery and elephants belonging to
the deputy governor for his own ufe, without the confent of
Mahabut Jung ; and he not relifhing fuch acts of authority in an
auxiliary, was much offended, fo that a coolnefs took place be-
tween them; and had not Suffder Jung thought proper to re-
treat, in all probability an open rupture would have foon fucceeded
his refufal.

The attempts of the Mharattas on Bengal did not end with
the defeat of Bolkar Raow. Ragojee Bhofela, enraged at the
repulfe of his general, immediately prepared a new army, at the
head of which he entered Bengal without delay. At the fame
time, a Ballajee Raow, the principal Mharatta chief, advanced
with a confiderable force to receive payment of a draft of b eleven
lacs of rupees, given by the emperor on Mahabut Jung, but with
profeffed declarations of affording his affiflance to him againfl
the former, by orders from Dhely. Ragojee having entered the
country by way of Beerboom, fixed his head quarters in the
diflritt of Burdwan, while Ballajee marched through Bahar to
the bank of the Bhaugruttee, not very far from the capital. Ma-
habut Jung advanced to meet him, and an interview took place,
at which it was agreed, that both armies fhould adl in con-
junction againfl Ragojee. It is fuppofed, the navob paid a great
fum for his alliance with this Mharatta general, whofe coming
to Bengal is varioufly accounted for. Some attribute it to the
emperor’s orders, in confequence of the requefl of Mahabut Jung ;
others, to the royal anger at his ufurpation of the government;
but it is more probable, that Ballajee was allured by the prof-
peft of obtaining a confiderable plunder in Bengal, and gratify-
ing his enmity againfl the Berar chief, than that he fhewed any

regard

a Ballajee and Ragojee at this time were at enmity as rivals for the pelh-
wafhip or miniftry of the Mharatta {fates.

b One hundred and ten thoufand pounds.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

331

regard to Mahummud Shaw’s approbation or diflike of the con*
dudt of Mahabut Jung. Both armies now marched to expell
Ragojee from Burdwan, and continued together for fome days,
when Ballajee, not liking the flow movement of the Bengal troops,
took upon himfelf the punifhment of the Berar chief, and left
the navob. Ragojee fled, as he advanced, to his own country;
and Mahabut Jung, having thus prudently cleared the provinces
of his enemy, returned to Moorfhudabad : but though he did
not in' this campaign fuflfer lofs in the field, that of the revenue
was great, as the unfortunate inhabitants of the defencelefs vil-
lages were plundered without mercy by both the MkCuatta
armies ; nor were their calamities yet at end from the in-
vaders,

Ragojee the year following again fent Bofkar Raow, at the
head of twenty thoufand horfe, to invade Bengal, but with or-
ders to offer peace, fhould the navob fubmit to pay a heavy
contribution, as he had done to Ballajee. Mahabut Jung on
their approach moved with his army and encamped at Mun-
kirra, only ten miles from his capital, having it in contempla-
tion to take advantage of the defire his enemy had for money
to allure the principal chiefs to an interview by promifes of
large fums, and cut them off by treachery ; which, if effected,
he could eafily vanquifh an army deprived of its leaders. With
fuch views, he difpatched Muftapha Khan and Raja Janegee
Ram to the Mharatta camp, with propofals of peace and an
invitation to Bofkar Raow to come to an interview, fhould the
terms of friendfhip be accepted. Bofkar Raow demanded heavy
contributions ; to which the agents readily confented, provided
he would vifit Mahabut Jung, who at the fame time daily fent
him friendly letters and valuable prefents. At length, the Mha-
ratta, blinded by avarice, confented, and a day was appointed.
The navob having communicated his intentions to his nephew

T t 2 Sowlut

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

So wlut Jung, Jaffier Khan, and Fakeer Oollah Beg, commanded
them to felect a confidential band of men, and draw them up
within the fkreens round the tent of audience, with orders to
rufh upon Bofkar and his attendants upon a fignal, which lie
appointed, promifing liberal rewards for their obedience. At
length, the day fixed being arrived, Bofkar Raow moved from
Cutwa with the greatefl part of his army, and on his arrival
near the navob’s encampment, leaving his troops drawn up in
order of battle, advanced with other principal chiefs and his
attendants. The Bengal troops were drawn up to receive
him. Near the tent of audience he difmounted, and entered the
enclofure of fkreens with his companions, fupported by Mufta-
pha Khan and Raja Janegee Ram, who fooil after. however,
contrived to quit him. Mahabut Jung eagerly enquired as he
advanced, which was Bofkar Raow ? and on his being pointed
out, cried out with a loud voice, “ Cut down the infidel.” In
an inflant the appointed band rufhed on their victims, and Bofkar
Raow, with nineteen officers of rank, were flaughtered. The
navob now mounted his elephant, and putting himfelf at the
head of his troops, furioufly charged the Mharatta line ; which,
not expecting an attack and deprived of their generals, was
routed in an inflant. Mahabut Jung purfued the enemy to
Cutwa, their Handing camp, which had been left under the
command of Ragoo Gicowaur, who had uniformly refufed to ac-
company Bofkar to the fatal interview. Being informed of the
fate of his general, he fled with precipitation, and evacuated
the provinces without attempting to revenge the maffacre. Ma-
habut Jung returned to Moorfhudabad ; and having diflributed
ten lacs of rupees, as a gratuity to the troops, conferred liberal
rewards on thofe chiefs who had affifted moftly in the com-
pletion of his infidious and bloody vidtory. Hajee Ahmud about
this time being offended at his brother, for refilling him the
fojedaury of Hughly, though he had a greater revenue than he

could

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

333

could expend, and the office he delired was conferred on his
own fon Sowlut Jung, who had been without any confequential
employment fince his unfortunate adminiftration at Cuttac, re-
tired in difguft to Patna, where he devoted himfelf in his old
age to fenfual enjoyments.

Mahabut Jung, now freed from foreign enemies, was affidu-
oufly employed in the regulation of his provinces, and forming
plans for the repair of that defolation which the Mharattas had
fpread through all the diftri&s weft of the river Ganges ; but
a ftorm foon arofe within his own dominions, which was more
threatening to his power than the armies of Dekkan. He had,
in order to attach his chiefs to his intereft during the war,
been lavifti of his favours, and more fo of promifes of future
rewards ; but which, now finding inconvenient to fulfil, he broke
through ; which gave offence to many, but particularly to his
principal general, Muftapha Khan.

Muftapha Khan had been conftantly the chief counfellor and
agent of Mahabut Jung. To his fidelity and valour he in great
meafure owed his acquifition of the mufnud of Bengal, and his
fuccefs over the Mharatta invaders. To his addrefs he was
indebted alfo for the decifive, but treacherous blow, given to
his enemies, by the late aftaffination of Bolkar Raow and his
officers ; and, it is faid, that for this laft fervice he had promifed
him the government of Bahar, which was held by his nephew
and fon in law, Hybut Jung. The general was preffing for the
performance of his promife, and in fuch a manner, as fhewed
he rather efteemed himfelf the partner in authority than fervant
of the navob. He interfered alfo, by his recommendations of
perfons to office, with the plans of Mahabut Jung, who grant-
ed many favours to his importunity, but every compliance was
inftantly fucceeded by new requefts fo that the navob was in

danger

HISTORY OF BENGAL*

danger of becoming a tool in the hands of his general, a fitua-
tion which his high fpirit could not brook. To fuch a pitch
had Muftapha Khan carried his influence, that the zemindars of
Bengal, when the dewan, or revenue collectors, pulhed them
for payment, or enforced arrangements, they did not chufe,
however neceffary and juft, bribed him to fkreen them from
the refentment of the navob ; who, to pleafe his minifter, (whom
he wilhed not to difguft in a feafon of danger) too often re-
pealed his own orders, to the injury of his treafury and autho-
rity, infomuch that the civil officers of government became of
little confequence in the eyes of the renters. Mahabut Jung
bore with the evil till it was becoming dangerous ; but on the
general’s demanding the province of Bahar, he was obliged to
refufe, fearing, from his own conduCt in a fimilar fituation, that
Muftapha Khan would finally direCt the force which that go-
vernment would give him, 'againft his patron, as he himlelf had
done againft the unfortunate Alla ad Dowlah. He endeavoured,
however, by every means to fatisfy him for his breach of pro-
mife, but in vain. Muftapha Khan had refolved to eltabliffi
himfelf in Bahar, and would not be put off. It is faid, that
he had even views upon Bengal, to fatisfy which he would
not have fpared the life of his mafter. Jealoufies now took
place, and each party became fufpicious of the other’s intentions,
knowing that affaffination was an engine they each could make
ufe of without remorfe, and which, perhaps, both watched an
opportunity to employ. Appearances of regard were however
kept up between the navob and his general ; but the latter now
always went well guarded in his vifits to court. At length, an
accident brought affairs to a crifis, which produced an open
rupture.

Muftapha Khan, one day intending to pay his refpeCts to the
navob, difpatched before him two of his principal officers, to

obferve

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

33 5

obferve the flate of the audience chamber, and remark if there
were figns of treachery againft him; a precaution he had ufed
fince the coolnefs had taken place. The officers having made
their obeifance to the prince, fat down to wait the arrival of
the general, when, juft as it was announced, a eunuch came
from the interior apartments, and informed Mahabut Jung, that
his Begum was fuddenly taken ill, and defired to fee him, the
navob rofe up, and, retiring, defired that the officers would ex-
cufe him for a few minutes to their general. At this inftant,
the tread of feet and uncommon ruffling was heard in the
paffage to the haram, which the officers, ever fufpicious of
treachery, fuppofing to proceed from armed men concealed to
affaffinate their lord, and the navob’s departure giving colour to
their apprehenfions, they rufhed out; and informed Muftapha
Khan, who was now alighting in the court, of their fears. ^The
general, prepared for alarm by the confciounefs of his own evil
defigns, remounted; and, haftening precipitately to his canton-
ments, refufed to return, though the navob, who had almoft
inffantaneoufly come back to the chamber of audience, difpatch-
ed after him his nephew Shawamut Jung to inform him that
he was waiting to receive him, and anxious to enquire the
caufe of his fudden departure, with folemn affurances, that no
treachery had been intended. On the return of his nephew,
Mahabut Jung would have gone in perfon to perfuade him of his
fincerity ; but the entreaties of his family, who were alarmed for
his fafety, prevailed upon him to give up that hazardous defign.
Every trial was made to calm the apprehenfions of the general,
but in vain; and he now openly declared his intentions of
quitting the navob’s fervice with his friends, and demanded the
arrears of pay due to himfelf and followers. Mahabut Jung
gladly complied with his wiffies, and paid without delay feven-
teen lacs of rupees, without examining his accounts ; at the fame

time

a One hundred and feventy thoufand pounds.

336

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

time commanding him, as he was refolved to leave his fervice,
to quit his dominions. Muftapha Khan, emboldened by the
readinefs with which the navob fatisfied his demands, and re-
garding it as a proof of weaknefs and fear, made propofals to
the Afghaun commanders of corps to depofe Mahabut Jung,
and divide his territories equally among them. Shumfheer Khan,
a conliderable chief, agreed to join him ; but the reft, as Serdaur
Khan, Rahim Khan, and others, declined, faying, that if Mahabut
Junghad injured him by withholding his juft demands, they would
readily have affifted him in enforcing redrefs ; but to mutiny
for no caufe, or behave ungratefully to their benefadtor, they
efteemed bafe and difhonourable. The navob took care to im-
prove this good difpofition by prefent gratuities and promifes of
favour to the loyal chiefs and their followers ; but, not willing
to hazard the fafety of his capital by proceeding to extremities
againft the rebel, was content to guard the city from infult,
and wait patiently for his departure. At length, Muftapha Khan
having ufed every art, but without effedt, to corrupt the army,
marched from Moorfhudabad with upwards of eight thoufand
horfe and a great number of foot, having previouily fet fire to
his cantonments, with the intention of pofiefling himfelf of Bahar.
The inhabitants of the city, who during the quarrel had been under
the greateft alarm for their perfons and property, received new life
from his departure. The navob, having liberally rewarded his
troops for their fidelity, particularly Serdaur Khan, Rahim Khan,
and Shumfheer Khan, who had been gained over from joining
the rebel, now prepared to purfue him. After a few days,
leaving the city in charge of his nephew Shawamut Jung, he
began his march; at the fame time writing to Hy but Jung,
governor of Patna, the capital of Bahar, not to hazard an en-
gagement in the field, and if he thought that city not defen-
fible, to crofs the river, and move down the oppofite bank, till
he could form a junction with his grand army.

Muftapha

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

Mufiapha Khan having plundered Raujemahal, and taken
Lome elephants and cannon ftationed there to his own ufe, pro-
ceeded to Monghyr, of which he gained . pofleffion with little
lofs, the fortrefs being in a ruinous ftate. He next advanced
towards Patna, hoping to make an eafy conquefl of that city ;
but intelligence of his defection having reached Hybut Jung, who
was then engaged in fome operations on the oppofite bank of
the Ganges, he returned expeditioufly, and encamped near the
town, refolved, notwithstanding the contrary advice of his uncle
the navob, to oppofe the enemy, however fuperior in num-
ber. He difpatched a meffenger to Muftapha Khan, deliring to
know his intentions, declaring, that if they were to feize the
city, he muft produce the imperial orders for his condutft, be-
fore it fhould be given up ; but, if his defign was only to
pafs through the province into Benaras or Oude, he was wel-
come to purfue his route any way but through the capital. The
rebel infolently replied, “ That he thought it incumbent upon
“ him to deftroy * heretics like Mahabut Jung ; and as the
“ fcripture faith, ‘ Territory is for him who can conquer it/
“ there was no occafion for the imperial grant.” He concluded
by alking, “ By what authority was his uncle fupported in feiz-
“ ing Bengal, and murdering his fovereign Serferauz Khan?”

Hybut Jung, not intimidated at the rebel’s approach, pre-
pared to receive him, though his army did not confift of more
than five or fix thoufand horfe, great part of them new levies,
raifed in a hurry, and inexperienced. The enemy foon appear-
Vol. II. U u ed,

a Muftapha Khan was a Soonni, the fe£hries of which are advocates for
the juftice of ihe fucceffion to the prophet of the three firft kaliphs, Aboubeker,
Omar, and Ofmaun, in' prejudice to Alee, the prophet’s fon in law. Mahabut
Jung was of the Sheea fe<ft, who regard Alee as the fucceffor of the prophet,
and even his equal in holinefs. The fuperftiticus among them even fay, that
God commiflioned the angel Gabriel to deliver his revelation to Alee, but chat
he, by miftake, gave it to Mahummud.

338

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

ed, and attacked his camp without delay ; when Hybut Jung
was deferted by all his troops, except a few hundred veterans
who guarded his perfon, on the firft onfet. Muftapha Khan
was furioufty charging this fmall body, when his elephant dri-
ver being killed by a mufquet (hot, the animal became un-
ruly, and at the fame time two of his principal officers, Oudal
Shaw and Hakeem Shaw, were mortally wounded. Unable to
manage his elephant, he alighted in order to mount a horfe ;
but his troops, on miffing him from his * howdah, fuppofed
him flain, were feized with a panic, and retreated in confulion
towards their own camp. Muftapha Khan endeavoured in vain
to rally and convince them of their error, but was obliged to
retire. Hybut Jung, not thinking it prudent to purfue, was
contented with the repulfe of the enemy, and remained within
his lines. A diftant cannonade and fkirmilhing was kept up
for feven days between the two armies, but on the eighth, the
rebel, after fending off his baggage and tents fome miles to
the weft ward of Patna, again attacked the lines of Hybut Jung,
who defended his poft with gallantry and refolution. Muftapha
Khan, ftill unfortunate, in the beginning of the affault was
wounded in the eye with an arrow, which obliged him to re-
treat ; and having now intelligence of the near approach of Ma-
habut Jung, he judged it beft to give over his deftgns on Pat-
na, and march towards the frontier of Bahar. He was foon
purfued by the united forces of the navob and his nephew from
place to place, till he had paffed the borders into the territories
of Suffder Jung ; not chuftng to hazard an engagement, as his
troops were difpirited by their late repulfes, and the lofs of their
two principal chiefs. He expedited alfo to be foon joined by
a body of Mharattas, in conjunction with whom he hoped to
be more fuccefsful at a future period. He retired under the

walls

a A feat ufed on elephants.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

339

walls of the fortrefs of * Chunar, and Mahabut Jung did not
chufe to run the rilk of embroiling himfelf with the navob of
Oude by carrying the purfuit into his dominions.

The navob had fcarcely returned to Patna, when he received
intelligence, that Ragojee Bhofela, encouraged by affurances of
afiiftance from Muftapha Khan, and eager to revenge the affaffin-
ation of Bofkar Raow and his officers, had marched towards Ben-
gal with a large army, and was rapidly advancing. Mahabut
Jung, leaving Hybut Jung to defend Bahar and watch the mo-
tions of the rebel, haftened to Moorfhudabad for the defence
of that city, and prevent, if poffible, a junction of the Mha-
rattas with Muftapha Khan. At the fame time he fent an
ambaftador to endeavour to divert Ragojee from his invafion;
but that chief, fuppofing Bengal to be in a ftate of difaffec-
tion, and the offers of the navob to proceed from fear, de-
manded the unreafonable fum of ‘three corores of rupees as the
price of his forbearance. Mahabut Jung, though refolved not
to confent to terms fo exorbitant and dilhonourable, yet willing
to gain time, in hopes that the rainy feafon, now near, would
ftop the Mharatta from action, and allow him effectually to
punifh Muftapha Khan, inftrucfted his ambaftador to amufe Ra-
gojee with profeftions of compliance. In confequence of this,
nearly two months were wafted in negotiation at Burdwan, where
the enemy encamped j and, at the expiration of that time, Ma-
habut Jung received the happy intelligence of the defeat and
death of Muftapha Khan, who had with great additions to his
former force invaded Bahar, thinking to make it an eafy con-
queft, as the invafion of the Mharattas would prevent fuccours
being fent from Bengal ; but the abilities and good fortune of
Hybut Jung prevailed againft him.

U u 2 The

a Chunar is a diftrift in Benaras, and will be long celebrated in India for
having been the refuge of Mr. Haftings during the rebellion of Cheyt Sing.

b Three millions fterling.

34°

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

The navob, who had continued at his capital in order to
convince Ragojee that he was fincere in his defire of peace,
now ordered his ambaffador to return, and fent him this vaunt-
ing meffage : “ Thofe who feek peace from an enemy, are

“ guided either by a fenfe of their own lofs or inferiority, or
“ hopes of advantage ; but, praifed be God, the heroes of the
“ faith feel no dread of encountering infidels. Peace therefore
(< depends upon this. When the lions of Iflaum fhall fo engage
“ the monflers of idolatry, that they fhall fwitn in the blood
** of each other, and flruggle till one party fhall, overpowered,
te beg for quarter.” Ragojee replied, “ that to obtain this crifis,
“ he had already advanced near a thoufand miles from his
“ own country ; but the navob had not yet moved one hun-
« dred, to do him the honours of a meeting.” Mahabut Jung
rejoined, “ that the rainy feafon being arrived, and Ragojee
» having fuffered fatigue and inconvenience from his long march,
“ it would be prudent for him to fpend the inclement months
“ in fome convenient fpot, that his troops might refrefh, and
“ prepare for engagement in the dry feafon, when he would
“ refpedlfully wait upon him, even to his own dominions.”
Ragojee, accordingly, encamped in Beerbhoom, and reduced the
province of Cuttac and molt of Burdwan by his detachments.

A. D. 1745. In the beginning of the cool feafon of 1 158, Mahabut Jung
marched from his capital to offer battle to the enemy. Rago-
jee had by this time moved into Bahar, in order to form a
junction with the remains of Muftapha Khan’s adherents, who
Rill continued to infeft the hilly part of that province under
Mortuzza Khan, fon to the deceafed chief, and Bullund Khan,
a principal officer, but were too weak to venture into the open
country alone. The navob, not being able to overtake the
Mharattas, encamped at Baukipore, a fhort diftance weft of
Patna, for fome time ; but on hearing that the enemy had

crofied.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

34*

croffed the Soane to join the Afghauns, he proceeded to Mohib
Aleepore, on the banks of that river.

Ragojee having effected his purpofe of joining the rebels,
advanced towards the navob’s army in great force, and feveral
engagements took place, in all which the latter was victorious,
particularly in one, when the Mharatta general was fo com-
pletely furrounded that he mull have been taken prifoner, had
not Shumffieer Khan and Serdaur Khan, two of Mahabut Jung’s
officers, who were privately negotiating a treaty with the ene-
my, purpofely let him efcape. This difcovery of treachery
alarmed the navob, and he again offered terms to the Mha-
ratta, but Ragojee would not accept them ; and feeing no ad-
vantage in oppofing Mahabut Jung in the field, by advice of
Meer Hubbeeb, he proceeded fuddenly by qilick marches towards
Moorffiudabad, in hopes of being able to plunder that city
before the navob could reach it with his army. Mahabut Jung,
however, moved with fuch expedition, that he arrived only one
day after the enemy, who had only time to ravage part of the.
fuburbs, and retreated, on his approach, acrofs the river Bhau-
gruttee. The navob followed Ragojee to Cutwa, near which
he obliged him to engage, and defeated him with great {laugh-
ter, when the Mharatta retreated towards Midnapore. Here,
having received intelligence of infurredions in his own country,
Ragojee returned haftily to Berar with the bulk of his army,
leaving Meer Hubbeeb and the Afghaun chiefs for the defence,
of Cuttac ; upon which the navob, giving up for the prefent
the recovery of that province, returned to his capital, in order
to refreffi his troops and correct fome abufes which he had
difcovered among his principal officers.

It has been already mentioned, that Serdaur Khan and Shum-
ffieec Khan, during the campaign had fuffered Ragojee to efcape,

when

342

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

when they might have made him prifoner. The navob had
alfo, while the Mharattas were in the neighbourhood of the
capital, entrufted the protection of the roads between it and
Bogwaungolah, from whence the city was furnifhed with fup-
plies from the diftridts eaftward of the Ganges, to thofe officers,
who, either through negleCt or delign, allowed the marauders
more than once to plunder the convoys. The navob, upon this,
removed them from that duty,- which he entrufted to his nephew
Sowlut Jung, who fulfilled it to his fatisfadion, and intercepted
letters from Ragojee to the former commanders, which proved
their connivance. Mahabut Jung had concealed his fufpicions
till the retreat of the Mharattas ) but, upon his return to Moor-
fhudabad, he difmifled them with their followers, about fix
thoufand men, from his fervice, but allowed them to retire to
their homes in the diftrid of Durbunga, on the eaftern fide of
the Ganges, in the province of Bahar. In this feafon of tem-
porary repofe were celebrated the marriages of his grandfon,
Serauje ad Dowlah, and Ikraum ad Dowlah, fon to the late navob
Alla ad Dowlah, who had been adopted by Shawamut Jung,
who had no children. Upwards of two thoufand rich drefles
were diftributed on this occafion among the attendants at court,
and, during a whole mcnth, the populace were feafted at the
expenfe of the navob- The magnificence of thefe nuptials, the
brilliant illuminations, fplendid pageants, and grand proceffions
of the bridegrooms, are ftill fpoken of with admiration by the
inhabitants of Bengal.

Mahabut Jung, having now refblved to attempt the expul-
fion of the Mharattas and Afghauns from Cuttac, appointed.
aMeer Jaffier Khan to the command of a confiderable detach-
ment for that fervice, giving him, by way of encouragement,

the

a The fame perfon who, after the deceafe of Mahabut Jung, by the affift-
ance of the Englifh, acquired the mufnud of Bengal.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

S43

the fojedaurees of Injalee and Midnapore, in addition to the
office of paymaster general. Meer Jaffier, on his arrival at Mid-
napore, defeated a fmall body of the enemy, when, being much
addi&ed to luxury and indolence, he did not purfue his ad-
vantage, but put his troops into cantonments, though the navob
ordered him to proceed to Cuttac without delay, before the ene-
my could be reinforced from Berar, the chief’s fon of which,
Janojee, was preparing for a frefh invafion. At length, the
expected Mharatta army entered Cuttac, and Meer Jaffier, not
chufing to hazard the defence of Midnapore, retreated towards
Burdwan, when the advanced party of the enemy, obferving
his pufillanimity, hung upon his rear, and plundered his bag-
gage of feveral elephants. Mahabut Jung, upon this, difpatched
Atta Oollah Khan with a reinforcement, to fuperfede him in the
command, and moved alfo himfelf from the capital with his
army, to fupport him, if neceffary. Atta Oollah at Burdwan
engaged the enemy, and defeated them ; but having fecretly
defigns on the government, the acceffion to which he had been
foretold by a fanatic officer in his fervice, who pretended to
the gift of prophecy, he thought the prefent a proper occafion
to affiume independance. For this purpofe, he endeavoured to
corrupt Meer Jaffier by a promife of the government of Bahar,
if he would affift in deposing the navob. Meer Jaffier at firft
liftened to the propofal, but, at the remonftrances of his friends
on the danger of the attempt, withdrew his concurrence. In-
telligence of this treacherous combination, however, having reach-
ed Mahabut Jung, he determined to leffen their influence, and,
on his arrival at Burdwan, reprimanded Meer Jaffier feverely
for his conduct in Midnapore, upon which that chief refrained
from his ufual attendance at the durbar. Atta Oollah Khan,
proud of his late victory, and not fufpedling that his evil de-
figns were known to the navob, demanded the command of a
thoufand horfe for Meer Alee Afgir, the fanatic officer who

had

344-

history OF BENGAL.

had prophefied his exaltation, and had greatly diffinguifhed him-
felf in the adtion ; but this the navob refufed, and Atta Oollah
being difgufted, threatened to leave the army. Mahabut Jong
was not to be moved, and he accordingly retired with his fol-
lowers to Moorfhudabad. The navob would now have over-
looked the faults of Meer Jaffier, and, on the death of a re-
lation, condefcendingly went to pay him a vifit of condolance,
as a mark of returning favour ; but that chief, fuppofing this
honour to proceed from a dread of his influence, infolently ne-
glected the complimentary advance from his tent to meet him;
on which the navob, in great wrath, laid afide his intentions,
after he had gone half way, and returned to his camp. He
now ordered him to give in the accounts of his office, and
fend Shujan Sing, his deputy, with them to the durbar. Meer
Jaffier refufed; upon which the navob removed him from all
his employments, and offered fervice to his followers in other
corps, which they readily embraced. The general, finding him-
felf deferted, would have made conceffions, but the navob or-
dered him to leave the army, and retire to the capital.

Mahabut Jung, notwithftanding this diffention and the lofs
of two of his generals, kept the field, and defeated the Mha-
rattas in feveral engagements. Janojee attempted, like his fa-
ther, to plunder the capital; but the navob followed him with
fuch rapidity, that he had not time to execute his defigns ; and,
on the approach of the rains, retired to Midnapore, where he
cantoned, and Mahabut Jung marched to Moorfhudabad, not
chufing to purfue him farther till the dry feafon. Meer Alee
Afgir, the prophefying fanatic, was now obliged by the navob
to quit the provinces, though Shawamut Jung ufed every en-
treaty with his uncle to allow him to remain in the city with
Atta Oollah Khan, whom the navob yet permitted to refide
there.

The

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

The rains had fcarcely fubfided, when Mahabut Jung pre-
pared to march againft the Mharattas, and was encamped at
Amaunee Gunge, not far from the capital, when he received
fudden intelligence of an infurredtion in Bahar, the affadination
of his nephew Hybut Jung, and the captivity and difgraceful
death of his brother Hajee Ahmud. It has been already re-
marked, that the navob had difcharged from his fervice the
Afghaun chiefs, Shumiheer Khan and Serdaur Khan, with their
followers. Thefe generals had redded lince that time in their
jaghires in Derbunga ; but the exigence of fuch a body of
armed men, free from any controul of the governor of the pro-
vince, could not long continue without endangering its fafety.
Hybut Jung, according to fome reports, dreading their rebellion,
or, to others, by attaching the Afghauns to his interefls, mean-
ing to enfure his fucceffion to his uncle, or to affiime inde-
pendance on his authority, had during the rains reprefented to
him by his agent, that the difcharged chiefs were forry for
their pad: conduct, and delirous of being readmitted to his fer-
vice. He therefore requeued, that he might be allowed to
entertain them, as the only mode of preventing a commotion,
to which they would have recourfe, fhould their petition be
rejected. Mahabut Jung with fome reludtance confented, and
Hybut Jung made propofals to the two chiefs, which they re-
ceived with feeming fatisfadtion. The terms of fervice being
adjufted, they marched from Derbunga to the bank of the Ganges,
oppofite Patna ; and Hybut Jung, to allure them of his con-
fidence and fincerity, condefcended to vifit them with a few
attendants. He was received with proper refpedt, and a day
was fixed for their eroding the river with their followers. The
navob returned to his palace fatisfied of their fidelity, and ilfued
orders for the provifion of boats for their conveyance. On the
day appointed, the Afghauns eroded the Ganges, and encamped
Vol. II, W w near

346

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

near the city j when Hybut Jung again vifited * Serdaur Khan.
The two next days were chofen for the generals to pay their
refpedts to him feparately, at the palace, and the navob, in
order to obviate any fears they might have of treachery, com-
manded that only his domeftic fervants fhould attend him,
even to the exclufion of his ufual body guards. Serdaur Khan
came the firft day, and having received the cuftomary tokens
of efteem, returned to his camp. The following morning Hy-
but Jung repaired to his hall of audience, to receive the pro-
mifed vifit of Shumfheer Khan, and, as on the day before,
would not permit any guards to attend, allowing only a few
officers of his houfehold to be prefent. Firft came nearly a
thoufand of the Afghaun infantry, with matchlocks and matches
lighted, who, after faluting, arranged themfelves in the fquare
of the palace. A chief, named Moraud Sheer Khan, next en-
tered, with a crowd of officers, who filled the hall, and eagerly
preffed to prefent their offerings. This being done, Hybut Jung
enquired after Shumfheer Khan, and was told he was not far
off. Moraud Sheer Khan now ordered his companions to take
leave, and make room for others. They rofe, and according
to cuftom, received each a betel from Hybut Jung, who was
earnefi in diflributing it, when one of the Afghauns, fuddenly
drawing a dagger, aimed a flroke at him, but without effedt.
One of the navob’s attendants immediately cried out ** Treachery j
but Hybut Jung had only time to draw his fabre, when Moraud
Sheer Khan cut him down, and he fell dead on the pillow of
his mufnud. Several of his attendants were {lain j and the pa-
lace being filled with the traitors, alfo the ltreets of the city
by the foldiers of Shumfheer Khan, no refiflance could be made
by the dependants of Hybut Jung. The Afghauns committed

great excefles in the town, the inhabitants of which had no re-
medy

a It is faid, this chief was not a partner in the treafon, as far as refpefted
the aflaffination.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

347

medy but to fubmit to their authority. Shumffieer Khan ordered
Hajee Ahmud to be brought before him, and demanded an ac-
count of his treafure ; but, declining a difcovery, he was tortu-
red in various modes for feventeen days, till at length he expired,
not unj uftly punifhed for his treachery, and ffiare in the murder of
the unfortunate Alla ad Dowlah. About a feventy lacs of rupees
were found buried in his houfe, befides jewels and other valu-
ables to a great amount. The effedts of Hybut Jung were feized,
and his Begum Ameena, the daughter of Mahabut Jung, with
his other women, forcibly carried to the camp of Shumffieer
Khan j who, leaving the city under charge of his deputy, fixed
his head quarters at a little diftance, and engaged in railing
new levies with the plunder he had acquired, intending to in-
vade Bengal. The wealthy inhabitants of Patna were obliged to
pay large fums, to fave their houfes from being plundered, and
a heavy contribution was exadted from the people at large by
the rebels.

Mahabut Jung, though inwardly deeply affedted at the deaths
of his brother and nephew, the difgraceful captivity of his
daughter, and the lofs of Bahar, threatened alfo with that of Bengal
by the invafion of the Mharattas at this alarming crifis, did not
lofe his intrepidity of mind, but fuftained the ftorms of cala-
mity with manly refolution, and prepared to combat the attacks
of misfortune. He convened his principal officers, fome of whom
he had reafon to fuppofe connedted with the rebels, being of
the fame tribes, and defired their advice for his condudt in the
prefent unhappy jundture of his affairs. They unanimoufly de-
clared, that they would loyally obey his commands. He replied,
that his beloved brother and nephew being (lain, and their
families plunged in difgraceful captivity, he found life, under

W w 2 fuch

* Seven hundred thousand pounds.

34^

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

fuch misfortunes unrevenged, intolerable, therefore knew no re-
medy but to punifh the rebels, or die in the attempt. If there-
fore any wifhed to follow him to this extremity, he would lpare
nothing to reward them ; but neither would he detain thofe
who might chufe to quit his fervice, having already received
more obligations from them than he could repay ; and as he
had refolved to feek death rather than lead a dilhonourable life,
but few followers where neceffary to enable him to obtain the
former. The chiefs, one and all, exclaimed, “ that they owed
“ him inviolable gratitude for his long experienced bounty to-
“ wards them, and had no views but to facrifice their lives if
** neceffary in his fervice ; ” to perform which, they bound
themfelves by oath on the Koraun. Mahabut Jung, now con-
vinced of their fidelity, paid up their arrears, and prepared to
march againft the rebels. The Mharattas by this time had ad-
vanced from Burdwan, and began to lay wafte within a fhort
diftance from the capital; but the navob knowing that to fol-
low thefe marauders, who always avoided coming to adtion,
would be vain, and give time to the rebels in Bahar to gather
ftrength, was not to be diverted from his purpofe. He ftati-
oned Sowlut Jung at Bogwaungolah, to preferve the communi-
cation for fupplies open between the Ganges and the city, which
he entrufted to Shawamut Jung, Atta Oollah, and Nowauzulh
Mahummud Khan, with a body of five thoufand horfe. A
proclamation was iffued, that he found it neceffary to march
againft the rebels, though the Mharattas were in the environs
of the city ; and, recommending, to fuch as chofe it, to retire
with their families to places of greater fecurity, previous to his
departure. Moft of the inhabitants who could procure convey-
ance, accordingly moved with their families and effedts acrofs
the Ganges ; fo that fcarce any but the foldiery and poor re-
mained. Having finiftied his preparations, he moved from
Amaunee Gunge, with an army of twenty thoufand horfe and

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

349

as many foot. . In order to fecure provifions, he had collected a
large fleet of boats, amply laden, to accompany his march up
the banks of the Ganges. Meer Jaffier on this occaflon was
again taken into favour, reftored to command, and the office of
paymafter general.

Mahabut Jung reached Monghyr without oppofition, except
in a trifling fkirmifh with the Mharattas at Bhaugulpore, who
had marched to join the rebels. Here a meflenger was inter-
cepted with letters from Atta Oollah Khan to the infurgents, in
which he encouraged them to Hand, and offered to embrace
their caufe at a convenient opportunity. The navob was joined
at Monghyr by fome of the Bahar zemindars and dependants of
the late Hybut Jung, who informed him, that the rebels had
left Patna, and were encamped at Bar, in number about fifty
thoufand horfe and foot, expe&ing to be joined by the Mharattas.

Janojee and Meer Hubbeeb having reached the vicinity of
the rebels’ camp, invited them to a conference, at which they
embraced the fervice of the Mharatta chief, and Shumfheer Khan
was inverted by him with the khelaut of the foubahdary of
Bahar. The next day Meer Hubbeeb vifited Shumfheer Khan,
who after his audience left him to repofe, but privately dire<rted
the guard over the tents, when he fhould prepare to return to
his own camp, to detain him, as a fecurity for the payment of
the expenfes he had incurred in levying an army for the fervice
of the Mharattas, at whofe inftigation he pretended he had
affaflinated Hybut Jung. This fcheme by fome means coming
to the knowledge of an attendant of Meer Hubbeeb, he dire<rt-
ed fome of the horfemen who had accompanied him, to leave
the camp, but to return fuddenly, as if purfued by an enemy,
and fpread an alarm that the navob’s army was in fight ; in
hopes that, by this rtratagem, he might fave his mafter from

- the

35°

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

the intended treachery. The horfemen fpread the alarm, as
directed, and much confufion occurred in the rebel’s camp; but
notwithstanding the reprefentations of Meer Hubbeeb, that the
prefent was no time for fettling accounts, he was not allowed
to depart till he had paid a confiderable fum, and given the
fecurity of merchants for a much greater. This diSpute proved
highly favourable to Mahabut Jung, by preventing the Mha-
rattas from aCting in conjunction with the rebels, as the former
now refolved to watch only an opportunity for plundering either
army. The following day the navob offered battle to the ene-
my, and, by his ufual good fortune, Serdaur Khan was killed
by a matchlock ball in the beginning of the aCtion, which in-
volved one half of the rebels in confufion, and fpread alarm
through the troops of Shumfheer Khan. At this juncture the
Mharattas appeared in the rear, hoping to effeCt the plunder of
the navob’s camp, while he was engaged. Upon Serauje ad
Dowlah’s reprefenting that it was proper to detach a body to op-
pofe them, he replied, “ that he would firft defeat his enemy in
“ front, and then with eafe difperfe the Mharattas.” Having
faid this, he charged the rebels with great fury, and they fled
panic-ftruck before him. Shumfheer Khan, being deferted, was
attacked on his elephant by an officer named Hubbeeb Beg,
who flew him, and cutting off his head, brought it to Mahabut
Jung. The Mharattas, feeing the defeat of the rebels, withdrew
from the field without Striking a blow, and the navob quietly
took poffeffion of the Afghaua^camp ; which they had left
landing, with all their tents and baggage, a prey to the vic-
tors. Here the navob found his daughter, the Begum of Hybut
Jung, and the reft of his family, who had been made prifoners
at Patna. Having offered up thanks for this, on his fide, almoft
bloodlefs victory, and the happy retrieval of his infulted honour,
he proceeded to Patna, where he distributed large fums to the
religious and poor, in gratitude to God for his fuccefs, and

took

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

35*

meafures for repairing the Ioffes of government in the late re-
bellion. Having fent for the women and children of the prin-
cipal infurgents from Derbunga, on their arrival he lodged them
in his own haram, treating them with humanity and kindnefs,
and after a Ihort time fet them at liberty. At this time alfo,
he permitted the women and family of Meer Hubbeeb, who
had been confined fince his joining the Mharattas, to return to
him, and furnifhed them with money, conveyances, and an ef-
cort for their protection to the enemy’s camp. Having refet-
tled the government of Bahar, he returned triumphantly to
Moorfhudabad ; but, previoufly to entering the city, obliged At-
ta Oollah Khan to quit it, and, as foon as poffible, his do-
minions ; permitting him, however, to remove with all his effects
and nearly a feventy lacs of rupees, which he had acquired in
his fervice, though he had repeated proofs of his having con-
fpired againft his life and government. Atta Oollah Khan retired
into the province of Oude, and was foon afterwards flain, in
an adtion in the fervice of Suffder Jung againft the Patans of
Ferokhabad. Janojee, the Mharatta chief, after the defeat of
Shumfheer Khan, not thinking himfelf equal to Mahabut Jung
in the field, retired with his army into Midnapore ; and foon
after, on receiving intelligence of the death of his mother, march-
ed to Nagpore, leaving Meer Hubbeeb with a detachment for
the defence of Cuttac. The navob ftationed a confiderable body
of troops at Burdwan, to watch the motions of the enemy.

Mahabut Jung, at the conclufion of the rains, moved again A.H. 1160
from his capital, in order to drive the Mharattas from Cuttac; A. D. 1747
and, on his approach, they evacuated the city. He followed
them from place to place, during the dry feafon, without being
able to bring them to aClion ; but on his return to Moorfhud-

abad.

* Seven hundred thoufand pounds.

352

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

A. H. 1165.
A. D. 1751.

abad, die enemy again obtained poffeffion of the province. Ben-
gal was this year free from their depredations; a point, which
the navob efteemed an ample reward for the fatigues of his
campaign. The next year he renewed his efforts, and the ma-
rauders evaded his purfuit as ufual ; which made the navob
refolve to canton for the rains at Midnapore : but buildings were
fcarcely eredted, when he received intelligence that Serauje ad
Dowlah, his favourite grandfon, had left Moorfliudabad, with
intentions of taking poffeffion of Patna, which was governed in
his name by Jaunejee Ram, and affuming independance.

Mahabut Jung, who loved his grandfon to diftradtion, was
more alarmed for his fafety in any oppofition he might receive
from the governor of Patna, than any ill confequences to him-
felf from the rebellion. He inftantly left his army at Midna-
pore, and with a fmall force haftened to Moorfhudabad, where
he remained only one day to refrefh his troops, and then fol-
lowed the imprudent youth ; to whom he wrote in terms of
the greateft affedtion, affuring him that he meant him for his
fucceffor, and entreating him to return to his protection. Se-
rauje ad Dowlah wrote an infolent reply, in which he accufed
the navob of promoting his uncles to offices of truft, and treat-
ing him only with pretended fondnefs ; that he was weary of
being controuled like a child ; and, fince he would not give
him a fhare in authority, he was refolved to feize what he
regarded as his juft right. Therefore, he hoped his grandfather
would not attempt to oppofe him, as the confequence muft be,
that either he would have his head in his bofom, or his own
muft be laid at the feet of the elephant of Mahabut Jung.
The navob returned for anfwer, that Serauje ad Dowlah through
imprudence and want of judgment had caufelefsly accufed him
of want of regard ; for he not only intended him the fucceffion
to his own dominions, but to the government of the empire,

could

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

353

could he obtain it for him. He concluded his letter with the
following fentences. “ The religious champion, eager for mar-
“ tyrdom, is unmindful that the martyr to love exceeds him.
“ In the latl day they will not be compared together, for one
“ is {lain by an enemy, but the other by a friend.”

Serauje ad Dowlah, on his arrival near Patna, fummOned
the governor. Raja Jaunejee Ram, to deliver up the city and
repair to his prefence ; affuring him of favour in cafe of his
obedience. The raja was at a lofs how to a £t, being fearful of
furrendering his charge without orders from the navob, and
alarmed, left any accident fhould happen to Serauje ad Dow-
lah if he oppofed him ; but, at length, he refolved on defend-
ing the city, till he fhould hear from Mahabut Jung. The
imprudent young man affaulted the town without delay ; but
Mhadee Niffar Khan, the principal advifer and leader of his
rebellion, being killed early in the attack, his followers fled, and
Serauje ad Dowlah with difficulty fheltered himfelf in a houfe in
the fuburbs. The raja, rejoiced that he had efcaped unhurt,
immediately fent fome of his principal officers to attend him to
a refidence befitting his rank ; and by the perfuafions of his
friends, he confented to return to his grandfather. Mahabut
Jung was overjoyed at his efcape, and haftened to meet him.
Inftead of reproaches, he received him with the greateft affec-
tion, and a joy bordering on weaknefs, as it made Serauje ad
Dowlah exert the influence he now faw he had over him, to
his difcredit and difhonour. The navob, having fpent a few
days at Patna, returned with his grandfon to Moorfhudabad ;
but was feized on the road by an intermitting fever, which
continued long upon him. On his recovery, he marched againfl
the Mharattas, who yet infefted the province of Cuttac, and, as
uiual, unable to bring them to a decifive engagement, fpent
the dry months in purfuing them from place to place. The

X x two

354

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

two following years were expended in the fame defultory war-
fare, when at length both parties, being tired of war, began equally
to wifh for an accommodation of their difputes. Mahabut Jung
yielded to the Mharattas the province of Cuttac, and agreed to
pay annually twelve lacks of rupees, as the 1 choute of Bengal.

The navob, by this peace, being freed from all his enemies,
gradually difcharged his fuperfluous troops, and employed him-
felf in encouraging his people to rebuild the villages which had
been defiroyed, and cultivate the lands in many diftridts, long
wafte, from the defertion of the inhabitants during the repeat-
ed invafions. From this period we find nothing remarkable in
his life, the remainder of his government being uninterrupted
by vicifiitude. As he had chofbn Serauje ad Dowlah for his
lucceflbr, he latterly entrufied him with a power, which was
too often employed for the defiru&ion of thofe, againft whom
he had any pique, or was jealous of their attachment. Houf-
fein Koollee Khan and his brother, the favourites of his uncle
Shawamut Jung, he aflaflinated, and put to death other perfons
of rank, without being punifhed by his grandfather ; which adts
of cruelty eftranged from him the minds of the people, and
prepared the way for his own future defirudtion.

t ' r . Ir rl

A. D. 1755. In the year 1169 died Shawamut Jung, nephew to the navob,
and fon to Hajee Ahmud. He poflefled many good qualities,
and was much efieemed by the people for his clemency, and cha-
rities to the friendlefs and poor. His death was fpeedily followed
by that of his brother Sowlut Jung, who had for many years go-
verned the diftridt of Poornea, with credit to himfelf and fatisfadtion
to the inhabitants ; his misfortune at Cuttac having corrected the
warmth of his difpofition, and taught him prudence and huma-
nity

3 The Mharattas ftill keep up this claim, but, fince the death of Serauje ad
Dowlah, it has not been paid.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

nity. Both thefe princes are well fpoken of by the natives of
Bengal, and their memory refpeCted. Shawamut Jung died with-
out ifliie ; and Sowlut Jung left only one fon, who fucceeded him in
his government, under the title of Shokut Jung ; but was Alertly
depofed and flain by his coufm Serauje ad Dowlah.

Mahabut Jung did not long furvive the death of his ne-
phews. In the eightieth year of his age, being feized with a
dropfy, he fubmitted for fome days to the advice of his phyfi-
cians; but finding himfelf growing worfe, and judging that at
his time of life a recovery was not to be expected, refrained
from medicine, and refufed longer to follow any regimen. The
expectations of his death caufed great difputes among his rela-
tions. His eldeft daughter, Goofeety Begum, widow of Shawamut
Jung, retired with her treafures to a Mooteejeel, and diftributed
large films among the followers of her late hufband, in hopes
that they would fupport her againfi: her nephew Serauje ad Dow-
lah on her father’s demife. Such policy was only the influence
of her declining fortune. When Mahabut Jung was in his lafl:
agonies, fome of his women delired he would recommend them
to the care of his intended fucceflor ; but the navob knowing
his bad qualities, obferved, fmiling to them, “ that if he for
three days fhould behave dutifully to his grandmother, then
they might entertain hopes of his tendernefs.” Shortly after this,
he departed to the divine mercy, on the ninth of Rejib, 1169,
after a government of fixteen years over the three provinces of
Bengal, Bahar, and Orifla. He was buried the following night,
near the tomb of his mother in the garden of Khooih Baug.

X x 2 “ Thou

» A country palace near Moorfhudabad. The principal building {lands in a
piece of warer called Mootee Jeel, or Pearl-lake It was ere£ted by Shawamut
Jung, and is a {lately pile, being ornamemed with many pillars of black marble,
brought from the ruins of Gour or Lucnowty, the ancienc capital of Bengal.

3 55

A. D. 1756.

35*5

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

<e Thou didft guide him, O Lord, for he was among thy ferv-
“ ants. O forgive him his offences, for thou art moft merciful.”

Mahabut Jung from his early youth was not addicted to
idle pleafures, as wine, or a opiates, mufic, or the company
of courtezans. He was regular in his devotions, and affiduoufly
abftained from all things forbidden by the divine law. He ge-
nerally rofe two hours before day, and after ablution and prayer,
drank coffee with his feleCt companions. At day break he gave
public audience, when the commanders of his army, the civil
officers, and perfons of all ranks who had any applications
to make, were admitted without referve to fet forth their buli-
nefs, and received fatisfaCtion from his bounty. At the expi-
ration of two hours he retired to a private apartment, where
fuch only as were invited came. Thefe were generally his ne-
phews Shawamut Jung and Sowlut Jung, his grandfon Serauje
ad Dowlah, and particular friends. Pieces of poetry were now
recited, or hiftory or anecdotes read to him ; and fometimes he
even amufed himfelf with giving directions to his cooks, who
prepared victuals before him according to his palate. The offi-
cers of different departments, if neceffary, alfo came for orders.
He then fat down to eat with his friends, and many fhared the
bounties of his table. When the meal was over the company
retired to repofe. At this time, a ftory-teller always attended to
relate fome amufing narrative. He generally rofe about an hour
after mid-day, performed his devotions, and read in the Koraun
till near four. After faying the prayers for that time, and drink-
ing a draught of water cooled with ice or faltpetre, he received
feveral learned men, in whofe company he daily fpent an hour,
hearing them difcufs points of divinity and law for his informa-
ation. When they retired, the officers of the revenue, with Jug -
gutt Seet, his banker, were admitted, and gave him the intelli-
gence

Commonly ufed in India to intoxicate.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

357

gence received from Dhely and every province of the empire,,
alfo of each dillriCt of his own government, when he iffied
his orders to them as affairs required. An hour pilled in this
manner, and fometimes his near relations were allowed to be

prefent. By this time night fet in, lights were brought, and

with them certain jeflers and buffoons, who entertained turn with
their repartees on -each other for a fhort time. He then retired
to prayers ; after which he fat in privacy with his own Begum,
to receive the vifits of near female relations, till nine o’clock.
The women then departed, and men were admitted who had
bufinefs with him, till he retired to fleep, generally early, and

without eating. In this manner he paffed his time, having flated

hours for every employment. He was unequalled in his benevo-
lence to his relations, friends, and former acquaintance in his lower
fortunes, particularly to thofe who had fliewn him the fmallefl
kindnefs when he was diftreffed at Dhely in his youth, fending
for them or their children to his court, and conferring favours
upon them beyond their expectation. The people at large dur-
ing his life experienced fuch care and fatisfaCtion from his gen-
tle adminiltration, as could not be exceeded by the indulgence
of a parent ; while at the fame time the loweft of his officers
grew rich in his fervice. He was intelligent in all affairs, and en-
couraged the deferving of every profeffion. Affable in manners,
wife in ftate affairs, courageous as a general, he poffeffed alfo
every noble quality. When the French general, Mr. Buff/, after
the death of aNafir Jung, wrote to him in pompous terms of his
victory, and recommended the faCtory of b Chandernagore to his
protection, he reflected upon the flmilarity of difpofition between
his intended fucceffor, Serauje ad Dowlah, whole enmity to the
Englifh he was apprifed of, and the unfortunate foubahdar of

Dekkan ;

a Nafir Jung was Nizam of Dekkan, He was furprized and Rain in a
confpiracy of his nobles, alTifted by the French, in the year 1755.

b Belonging to the French in Bengal,

HISTORY OP BENGAL.

Dekkanj at the fame time faying, “ He feared that after his death
the Europeans would become m afters of many parts of Hindooftan.”
Muftapha Khan, his principal general, had endeavoured to pre-
vail upon him to expell the Englifti from Calcutta, and feize
their wealth j but receiving no anfwer to his advice, urged it
again, through the navob’s nephews, Sowlut Jung and Shawamut
Jung. Mahabut Jung returned no anfwer, but fhortly after faid
in private to the latter, “ My child, Muftapha Khan is a fol-
“ dier, and wifties us to be conftantly in need of his fervicej
«« but how came you to join in his requeft? What have the
“ Englifti done againft me, that I ftiould ufe them ill? It is
« now difficult to extinguifh fire on land; but afhould the fea
“ be in flames, who can put them out? Never liften to fuch
M advice as his, for the confequences would be fatal.”

* An allufion to the fleet.

SERAUJE

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

SERAUJE AD DOWLAH.

SeRAUJE ad Dowlah, after the cuftomary mourning, having
affumed the mufnud of his grandfather without oppofition, fent
a party of his troops to remove Goofeety Begum, his aunt, from
the palace of Mooteejeel to a place of fecurity, and to confif-
cate her effedts. Her adherents, who had received large fums
from her to oppofe his acceilion, deferted her immediately on
the death of Mahabut Jung, except a few, who alfo were fo
alarmed when the palace was furrounded, as to be incapable of
refiftance. Meer Nuzzer Ali, who had been her chief advifer
and confidant, having bribed the officers of the party to make
his peace with the navob, left the Begum, whofe perfon was
confined, and her treafures feized. Serauje ad Dowlah difplaced
many of the officers of government, and filled their places with
young men, the companions of his pleafures. He treated the
fervants of the late navob, moftly perfons advanced in years, with
fuch flight and difrefpedt, as gave them great offence, and eflranged
them from his intereft. Not long after his acceffion, he march-
ed towards Raujemahal, with a defign to difpoffefs his coufln
Shokut Jung of the province of Poornea ; but was diverted from
his purpofe, by information that Kifhen Boollub, fon of Rauje-
boollub, dewan of Shawamut Jung, had fled to Calcutta, and
was protected by the Englifh, Mr. Drake, the governor, hav-
ing refufed to deliver him up at the demand of the navob’s
officers. Upon this he returned fuddenly to the capital of Moor-
fhudabad.

Serauje

S6o

HISTORY OF EENGAL.

Serauje ad Dowlah, in whofe brain the vapour of pride had
arilen, and made him wander far from the patli of caution and
forbearance, having refolved on quarelling with the Englifh, was
tortured with the fire of impatience. The companions and old
fervants of Mahabut Jung durft not breathe a remonftrance in
his prefence, and many, from the degradation they had under-
gone and the advancement of low per Tons, wifhed the overthrow
of his power ; fo that no one gave him proper advice, nor did
he af k it. Thofe who were his counfellors and favourites, were
moftly rafh, and weak of underftanding, unacquainted with the
rules of policy, and infatuated with their fudden promotion ; or,
regarding oppofition to his will as deftrudtive to their own in-
tereff, did not dare to contradict him. Serauje ad Dowlah was
a weak man, void of ufeful qualities, and intoxicated with youth
and profperity. The probable confequences of any meafure en-
tered not into his mind ; and the hearts of the men of un-
derftanding about him were inflamed with difguft at his unrea-
sonable fury, or the difpute with the Englifh might have been
fettled eafily by negotiation. There was no caufe for kindling
the flames of war; but as providence had decreed the downfall
of the family of Mahabut Jung, and other great calamities, the
reins of government over Bengal, Bahar, and Oriffa, which form
an extenlive empire, fell into the hands of two weak and ty-
rannical youths, Serauje ad Dowlah and Shokut Jung, who in
the end fuffered for their crimes.

To proceed ; Serauje ad Dowlah in the beginning of Ram-
zaun marched towards Calcutta; and the Englifh, who had.no
force to oppofe him in the field, retired into their factory to
defend themfelves. Their outpofts were foon taken by the navob,
who had a great army ; and Mr. Drake, the governor, being
ftruck with. a panic at the Rate of his affairs, faw fafety only
in flight. Without informing the whole of his countrymen of

his

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

his intention, he fled to a fhip with a few perfons. The re-
mainder, out of regard to their honour, fought while they had
any ammunition, preferring death to difgraceful life, and drank
the fherbet of diffoiution with heroic valour. Some being over-
come, fell prifoners into the hand of providence. An invaluable
treafure in money and effedts was plundered from the ware-
houfes of the Company, the Englilh, Hindoo, and Armenian
merchants, by the foldiers and followers of the camp ; but Serauje
ad Dowlah acquired nothing from his conqueft, but the feeds
of his deftrudtion. Having remained a few days at Calcutta, he
returned to the capital, leaving the command of the place to
Manneck Chund, dewan of the Raja of Burdwan, a weak and
cowardly perfon, who had given proof of his treachery by de-
lerting Mahabut Jung when he was furrounded by the Mharattas.

Soon after the conqueft of Calcutta, Serauje ad Dowlah march-
ed againft his coufin Shokut Jung, the fojedaur of aPoorneah,
whom he reduced with little oppofltion, and acquired a great
acceflion of treafure and territory by his vidtory. He returned
triumphantly to his capital ; but his fortune was now at the
higheft. It is the eftablifhed cuftom of this world, that when
any thing has reached the point of perfection, it begins to de-
cay, and finally becomes annihilated; fo as to leave not a trace
for enquiry behind it. An inftance of this truth, and the caufe
of Serauje ad Dowlah’s ruin, may be feen in the following
pages.

Mr. Drake, the governor of Calcutta, having efcaped on
board a ihip with fome gentlemen, retired to Madrafs, and other
Englifhmen, employed in merchandife in various parts of Ben-
gal, alfo found means to efcape from the country. At this
time, colonel Clive commanded the company’s forces in the
Vol. II. Y y -■ province

a A confiderable divifion of Bengal.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

province of Arcot, which he had refcued from the hands of the
French. It was agreed by the government of Madrafs, that
he fhould repair with a force to Bengal, and endeavour to re-
gain the factory of Calcutta, either by force, or payment of a
fum of money. Being arrived with his troops in the river, he
Call anchor ; and as the chiefs of the Englifh are very cautious,
wife, and valiant, having fent propofals of accommodation to
Serauje ad Dowlah, he entreated his forgivenefs of Mr. Drake’s
faults, and offered fome lacs of rupees, on condition of being
allowed to occupy the factory as formerly. Serauje ad Dowlah
was the moft inconfiderate of men, and his minifters were weak,
and ignorant of the valour and abilities of the Englifh. The
intelligent had no power of offering their advice, and the chief
men of the country wifhed his ruin, wearied out with his op-
preffions. If any one did offer an opinion contrary to the navob’s,
he and his foolifh companions, intoxicated with conceit, treated
it fb difdainfully as to make him repent, and refolve on filence
in future. No anfwer was returned, and at length * colonel
Clive, tired of delay, and having obtained information of the
characters of the rulers of Bengal, refolved on war. He anchor-
ed his fhips oppofite the refidence of Manneck Chund, and be-
gan to play his artillery, which cauling confufion among the
enemy, he landed his forces, and attacked them. Manneck
Chund, unable to refill, fled with his army, and the colonel,
having taken poffeflion of the factory and town, exalted the
flandards of victory. Serauje ad Dowlah, upon intelligence of
this, was awakened a little from his dumber of conceit, and
prepared to march and punifh the Englifh.

Serauje ad Dowlah had fpent two months and twenty two
days in the enjoyment of pleafure, when at once, the meafure

*■ The author makes no mention of Admiral Watfon, Colonel Clive being
confidered by the natives as chief of the Englifh.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

of his crimes being full, the figns of his downfal appeared. On
Monday the twelfth of Rubby al Sani, 1170, he marched
from his capital towards Calcutta, and having encamped in the
vicinity of that city, fome days pafled in Ikirmilhing with the ene-
my. The Englifh opened a negotiation, with a view to find out
the (late of his army, having intentions of attempting a furprize by
night. Under pretence of a meflage to Serauje ad Dowlah, they
fent * two perfons of their own nation, poflefi'ed of the quali-
ties of valour, quick perception, memory, and judgment, who
having obferved the fituation of the navob s tents, might com-
mit particulars to the treafury of their remembrance ; and they
well performed their commiffion. I forget whether it was the
fame night, or one or two after, that the Englifh, being ready
for the- attack, embarked a body of their troops in boats, .and
proceeded cautioufly up the river to the fkirts of the camp,
where they waited till about half an hour before day. Then,
having entered in the rear of the line, they marched on firing
without intermifiion, while thofe who remained in the boats
did the fame as they fell down the river. Great (laughter was
made among the troops of the navob. Dofte Mahummud Khan,
a general of rank and merit, was wounded. It was reported,
that the Englifh intended if pofiible to carry off Serauje ad
Dowlah prifoner; but at this time a thick fog covered the
camp, which rendered it hard to diftinguifh perfons clofe to
each other, fo that they miffed the quarter of his tents, and
marched another way, the navob by this accident efcaping cap-
tivity. The Englifh regained the town in fafety. Serauje ad
Dowlah and his cowardly army, from the, alarm of this night,
to them a fymbol of the laft day, loft the powers of their
minds, which were overwhelmed with terror and affright. Judg-
ing it dangerous to remain longer fo near the city, the navob
fummoned his father in law, Mahummud Eeruch Khan, and

Y y 2 other

363

November,
A. D. 1756.

a Meffrs. Watts and Scrafton.

364

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

other chiefs, to confuit on future proceedings ; who, obferving
his terror, advifed the removal of the camp to a greater diftance,
and to offer terms of accommodation, which counfel was imme-
diately executed. The Englifh, feeing the alarms of the navob,
now demanded a compenfation for their effects plundered by
his army when he took Calcutta ; which, after much negotia-
tion, was agreed to, and Serauje ad Dowlah gave up fix dif-
tridfs in the vicinity of the fadtory, as a fecurity till the fum
fettled fhould be paid up. A treaty having been ratified and all
affairs fettled, through the medium of Mr. Watts, Serauje ad
Dowlah returned to Moorfhudabad, and now refledted upon what
in the days of his pride he had never confidered. He trem-
bled for his fituation, and was irrefolute how to regulate his
condudt. Having become afhamed and repentant of fome of his
vices, he at length found out that there was a God. Dofte
Mahummud Khan had retired for the cure of his wounds to
Saffaram; Meer Jaffier Khan, Raja Doolubram, and other old
officers, he found difaffe&ed to his perfon, and wifhed to ex-
tinguifh the flames of their difloyalty, but knew not how to ef-
fect it. He had no refolution of his own, or might either have
bound them to his intereft by a renewal of favour and kind-
nefs, or have put them to death, and raifed up miniders capa-
ble of conducting the affairs of his government. He had no
advifers free from felf-intereft to perfiiade him to employ the
experienced fervants of Mahabut Jung in preference to themfelves,
or of fenfe to know that from his profperity theirs would alfo
be derived. From thefe reafons, he would at one time, when en-
raged' with paffion, order cannon to be planted againft the houfe
of Meer Jaffier Khan, or command Doolubram to obey his
favourite. Mom Laal, or treat Juggutt Seet with contemptuous
threats.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

At this time, the Englifh having taken the factory of Chan-
dernagore from the French, Mr. Law, with a band of foldiers
and fome artillery, having efcaped from the enemy, fought pro-
tection at Moorfhudabad, and offered his fervices to Serauje ad
Dowlah, who readily received him. Upon this the Englifh,
either at the instigation of the difaffeCted chiefs, or of their own
accord, reprefented through their agent, that as there was a treaty
fubfifting between them and the navob, by the articles of which
the friends or enemies of either party were to be confidered as
fuch by both, he aCted contrary to it by receiving the French,
with whom they were at war. The navob advifed with Mr.
Law how to aCt ; who obferved, that if indeed he aflifted his
nation againft the Englifh company in the field, it would be
a breach of treaty ; but that it could be none for him, who
entertained thoufands of every call:, if he kept a few French-
men alfo in his fervice. An anfwer fimilar to this was convey-
ed to the Englifh, who, however, renewed their remonftrances
at the inftigation of the difaffeCted; and thefe perSons under
pretence of regard to his welfare, obferved, that to quarrel
with the Englifh for the fake of a few diftreffed Frenchmen
was unwife, and would occafion much confufion. At length,
Serauje ad Dowlah commanded Mr. Law to retire to Patna.
Mr. Law at taking leave told him, that moft of his chiefs
were difaffeCted to his perfon, and leagued with the Englifh
in intentions to depofe him, which was the caufe of advifing
his difmiffion; that on his departure they would fet him at
variance with the Englifh and deftroy him, which they could
not effeCt while he remained to aflift him. Serauje ad Dowlah
felt the truth of his obfervation, but was too timid to keep him
at his capital. He promifed to recall him when neceffary ; but
Mr. Law faid, “ I know we Shall never meet again.” After
his departure, the navob’s diiputes with Meer Jaffier, Doolub-
ram, and other chiefs, arofe to greater heights,, infomuch that

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

they, with Juggutt Seet, being in fear of their lives, refolved,
in order to fave themfelves, to eiFeft his deftru&ion. Goofeety
Begum alfo, who hated Serauje ad Dowlah, and was irritated
at his feizure of her treafures and eftates, ufed every means to
excite the refentment of her friends againft him, and to procure
their affiftance for Meer Jaffier, whom fhe alfo fupplied with
large fums of money, which fhe had fecreted by means of her
eunuchs and female attendants.

Meer Mahummud Jaffier Khan and the other chiefs agreed,
that the fureft method of depofing Serauje ad Dowlah, would
be to excite the Englifh againft him. With this view, Juggutt
Seet employed his agent, Ameen Chund, a principal merchant of
Calcutta, Doolubram fome other perfon, and Jaffier Khan, Ameer
Beg, who had fome connection with the Englifh, to whom he
had been of fervice when their factory was taken. Thefe per-
fons reprefented the outrageous conduCt of the navob to their
principals, and the general defire of the provinces for his re-
moval. They even produced a written requeft to the Englifh,
that they would march for this purpofe, and, by a little trou-
ble, deliver a world from tyranny and oppreffion, for which they
fhould receive * three corores of rupees, and other favours. The
particulars of the navob’s cruelties to Goofeety Begum and others,
were alfo difplayed, and the paper was attefted under the feals
of thofe perfons who fuffered injuries.

The Englifh, who are unequalled in valour and fentiment,
(and who is it that does not wifh for conqueft ?) upon intelligence
of thefe circumftances, determined on war with Serauje ad Dow-
lah ; but as it is their cuftom, and indeed of every wife peo-
ple, not to break with any one without a reafon affigned, doubt-
lefs they gave one to him, of which J am not informed. It

was.

a Three millions fieri ing.

HISTORY OF BENGAL. 367

was, moft probably, that of his delay in payment of money fet-
tled by treaty for the Ioffes at the capture of Calcutta.

War being refolved on, colonel Clive, known here by the
title of Sabut Jung, prepared to march; upon intelligence of
which, Serauje ad Dowlah, overwhelmed with dread, tried, when
too late, to reconcile his dependants, who pretended to be at-
tached to his perfon, the better to cover their own defigns. He
difpatched Doolubram, with the greatefl part of his army, to
throw up intrenchments at Plaffey; but he fpent his time in
fecret negotiations with the Englifh, and fecuring the troops in
his own interest and that of Jaffier Ali Khan ; who, renewing
* his attendance at the durbar, and apparently reconciled to
Serauje ad Dowlah, found means, by promifes and other me-
thods, to draw over mofl of the officers about the navob’s per-
fon to his defigns, fo that very few remained loyal. Upon in-
telligence of colonel Clive’s having begun his march from
Calcutta, Serauje ad Dowlah reluctantly, his heart divided with
hope and terror, moved from Munfoor Gunge to Plaffey, where
the Englifh, at the utmoft not exceeding three thoufand men,
natives and Europeans, fhortly arrived. On Thurfday, the fifth
of Showaul, 1170, the flames of battle were lighted up. As A. D. 1756.
Europeans, and the Englifh in particular, are celebrated for the*
fkilful management of artillery, colonel Clive began his attack
with a cannonade, fo unremitted and inftantaneous, as confound-
ed the fight of his oppofers, and overcame their faculties of
hearing. Meer Jaffier Khan and his affociates in treachery be-
held the enemy at a diftance, fafe from injury; but Meer
Muddun and others, ready to facrifice their lives or acquire vic-
tory, bravely oppofed the enemy. They were, however, unable
to charge from the violence of the cannonade, but kept refo-
lutely, though flowly, advancing, till at length they gained the
Grove of Plaffey ; and, it is laid, that colonel Clive, not ex-
pecting ■

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

pedting fuch refinance, abufed Ameen Chund and accufed him
of treachery, faying, “ that he had reprefented the army of
“ Serauje ad Dowlah as difaffedted to his perfon, bat now the
“ contrary appeared from their valiant opposition.” Ameen
Chund replied, “ that the prefent enemy was only Meer Mud-
“ dun and a few chiefs, who were faithful to the navob ; but
“ when he was routed, the truth of his reprefentations would
“ appear.” During this converfation, as revenge was decreed
for the crimes of Serauje ad Dowlah, Meer Muddun, who was
truly brave, and cherifhed the feeds of fidelity in his heart, re-
ceived a mortal wound from a cannon ball. He was carried
immediately to the navob, and having uttered a few words ex-
preflive of his loyalty, refigned his foul to the Creator of life.**
Serauje ad Dowlah by his lofs was involved in defpair. Hav-
ing fent for Meer Jaffier, who refufed for fome time to obey
the fummons, the navob in abjedt terms befought his protec-
tion; and, I have heard, that taking the turban from his own
head, he placed it at the feet of Jaffier, faying, ** I now
“ truly repent of my behaviour towards you, and offer your
** obligations to Mahabut Jung, my grandfather, and our re-
{t lationfhip, as interceffions for your forgivenefs. I now regard
“ you as holding, his place, and befeech for pardon to your
“ flave, conjuring you to adt as becomes your charadter as a
i( defcendant from the prophet, and your ancient obligations, in
“ defending my life and reputation.” Meer Jaffier Khan, judg-
ing this a fit opportunity to complete his treachery, advifed,
that as but little of the day was remaining, the troops fhould
be recalled to their tents, and promifed in the morning to re-
pulfe the enemy. Serauje ad Dowlah urged his fears of another
night attack ; but Jaffier affuring him he would guard againfl
it, he fent orders to his dewan Moin Laal, who had accom-
panied Meer Muddun and was ftill engaging the enemy, to
return to the camp. The dewan fent for anfwer, that the pre-
fent

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

fent was not a time for retreat, for, if be fhould retire, alarm
would fpread among the troops, who would probably fly in
confuflon. The navob a fecond time advifed with Jaffier Khan,
who infilled on the retreat of the dewan, or he would not
ad: j upon which he repeated his orders, and Moin Laal re-
ludantly obeyed.

When a man’s ill fortune prevails, he does that which he
fhould not. The troops, as had been forefeen, conllruing the
return to camp into defeat, began to fly in great numbers.
Serauje ad Dowlah feeing this defertion, much alarmed by the
enemy in front, but much more apprehenfive of thofe about
his perfon, at length left the camp, about half an hour be-
fore funfet, and arrived early the next morning at Munfoor
Gunge. Here, though he befought his attendants to remain
with him till he could prepare for efcape, and fix on fome
proper place of refuge, he could not prevail, but was deferted
by numbers. Even his wife’s father, Mahummud Eeruch Khan,
though the navob begged him to flay and colled troops, either
to defend him where he was, or accompany him in his retreat,
refufed, and hallened to his own houfe at the city of Moorfhud-
abad. As a lad refource, the navob opened the doors of his
treafury, and dillributed large fums to the foldiers, who received
his bounty and deferted with it to their homes. An immenfe
fum was thus, to him unprofitably, expended. He was un-
generous when he fhould have been liberal, and oppreflive to
mankind, and now faw the confequences of his crimes, differ-
ing in his own perfon for the calamities he had inflided upon
others. Having remained till night at Munfoor Gunge, and
finding himfelf almoft deferted by all, he took with him his
jewels and fome other valuables upon elephants, and with Lootf
al Nifia Begum, and two or three favourite women in cover-
ed carriages, quitted his palace about three in the morning,
Vol. II. Z z - and

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

37°

and haftened to Bogwaungolah, where he embarked upon the
Ganges, with the defign of feeking refuge in the fort of Patna.
In this proceeding he was alfo imprudent ; for, had he kept the
land, and called the jemmautdars of the villages to his affift-
ance, they would have efcorted him in fafety, in hopes of being
rewarded, and he would have been joined by numbers of his
troops, when recovered of their panic and hearing of his elcape ;
but, alas ! who can remedy the ills of fate ? His reafon for
flying by water, was the hope of meeting Mr. Law, to whom
he had written preffingly to haften to his affiftance, on the firft
intelligence of the march of the Englilh, and to come down
the river for the greater fpeed. Mr. Law received the letter,
but, according to the ufual delay in Hindooftan, before he could
procure from Ramnarain the money ordered for his expenfes,
fome time elapfed. He left Patna, but hearing of the defeat
and death of Serauje ad Dowlah, on reaching Raujemahal, he
retreated, and major Coote was afterwards fent in purfuit of
him to the frontiers of the provinces.

' t

When Meer Jaffier found that fortune had favoured his de-
figns, by the retreat of Serauje ad Dowlah, he remained at
Plafley, and had an interview with colonel Clive, with whom
and the Englifh troops he the next day entered Moorfhuclaoad,
and iffued proclamations of fafety to the inhabitants in his own
name. His partners in confpiracy, and thofe who, loving quiet,
were attached to no party, haftened to prefent congratulations
and offerings ; and fuch as did not approve his conduct and
were fecretly attached to Serauje ad Dowlah, (they were but
few) not chufing to be fingular, through fear did the fame.
Having leated himfelf on the mufnud of the provinces, he
founded high the trumpet of power and exultation, and em-
ployed himfelf in fettling affairs and dividing the treafures of
the palace, as had been agreed, between himfelf. Raja Doolub-

ram.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

ram, and the Englifh. As he was ambitious of copying Ma-
habut Jung, he aflumed the fame titles on his feals, and con-
ferred thofe of that navob’s relations on his own. He difpatched
his fon in law Meer Caufim Khan in purfuit of Serauje ad
Dowlah, and iffued orders to Meer Daood, the commandant of
Raujemahal, to be vigilant in preventing his efcape from the
province. The unfortunate fugitive, being arrived on the bank
oppofite to Raujemahal, and with his women prefled by hunger,
after a fail of two days, difembarked at the cell of a devotee,
named Dana Shaw, of whom he afked help in procuring vic-
tuals. To this man, in the days of power, he had offered fome
affront, the memory of which ftill dwelt upon his mind. The
fakeer received him courteoufly, and provided food, but privately
difpatched information of his important gueft to Meer Daood,
who, with Meer Caufim, haftened to the cell, and took him
prifoner, with his women and effeCts. Serauje ad Dowlah now
entreated for life of thofe men, who had lately trembled at his
name, and fuffered their reproaches. He begged to be allowed
a moderate income and a retired dwelling. Meer Caufim Khan
obtained by threats and promifes a cafket of jewels from the
Begum to an immenfe amount, and each of the captors a va-
luable booty. The dewan Moin Laal had before this been feiz-
ed at Moorfhudabad, and his effects and life were taken by
Doolubram. On Sunday, the fifteenth of Showaul, Serauje ad
Dowlah arrived, a difgraced captive in the hands of his fervants,
at Moorfhudabad. When the people beheld him in this fili-
ation, they forgot his vices, and recollected only the hardfhip
of his prefent fortune, comparing it with the fplendour they
had feen him furrounded with from his infancy till now. It is
faid, that feveral jemmautdars, as he palled their quarters, were,
fo penetrated with grief and anger as to prepare to refcue.
him, but were prevented by their fuperiors, who had expecta-
tions of reward from his rival ; fo that the virtue of the weak

Z z 2

was

372

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

of no effect. Meer Jaffier was at this time at Munfbor Gunge,
but his fon Meeraun at Moorfhudabad. This young man iur-
pafled his father in every evil quality, never hefitating to fhed
blood. He regarded readinefs to punifh as good policy, and
mercy as folly. With fuch ideas he was fond of comparing
himfelf to Mahabut Jung. He ordered Serauje ad Dowlah to
be confined and put to death; but no perfon of rank would
undertake the murder. ' At length, a wretch named Mahum-
muddy Beg, who from his infancy had been cherifhed by Ma-
habut Jung and Serauje ad Dowlah, from whofe grandmother
he had received a portion with his wife from charity, offered
to execute the horrid deed. When the unfortunate navob law
him approach his perfon, he faid, “ Art thou come to kill me ?”
and, upon receiving a reply in the affirmative, began to pray;
then fuddenly exclaimed, “ Will not they let me live fome-
** where in obfcurity ? No, no, it cannot be ; I mull be facri-
“ ficed for the murder of Houflein Koollee Khan.’* The aflaf-
fin now inflidted feveral wounds, and the navob felling down,
cried, “ It is enough, my talk is over, and revenge is finifh-
“ ed.” Having faid thus, he refigned his foul to the Creator,
and left this world of crimes by the fword of cruelty. His
body was placed upon an elephant, and carried through the city,
expofed to the populace. It is faid, that the driver of the ele-
phant, by accident flopping at the fpot where Serauje ad Dow-
lah had aflaffinated a Houflein Koollee Khan, fome drops of
blood fell from the body upon the fame ground.

Be warned by example, O ye men of underftanding, and
“ view well the revolutions of fortune. Place not your reliance
“ upon the world’s fuccefs, for it is uncertain and inconitant,
“ like a publick finger, who goes daily from houfe to houfe.
“ Give not thy affection to a damfel, who every day changes her

“ gallant.

? A near relation of his own.

BISTORY OF BENGAL,

373

“ gallant. In the eye of the wife, fortune is as chaff*, blown
e< about by every wind. Didft thou poflefs the treafures of the
“ world, what thou haft expended in benevolence will alone
“ profit thee."

When the corpfe of the navob approached the refidence of
his afflicted mother, guefling the dilaiter from the clamour of
the populace, fhe burft from her apartments, and ran into the
ftreet, beating her breaft, but was forced back with blows, by
order of Khadim Houftein Khan, who fat upon the terrace of
' his houfe to view the expofure of the body of his lord’s fon.
Jaffier Khan was afleep when the unfortunate prifoner had ar-
rived, and did not wake till after the murder, when, being in-
formed of his coming, he fent to his fbn, commanding him to
be careful of his perfon. Meeraun, on receiving the order,
laughed, and faid, “ I am not fo weak as to be negle&ful in
<( fuch affairs i" and to his companions he vauntingly exclaim-
ed, “ My father juft now fent, but I had before completed
V the affair, for am I not, my friends, fon to the fifter of
“ Mahabut Jung ? How then could I be carelefs upon fuch aa
i( occafion

MEER

374

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

MEER JAFFIER KHAN.

Meer Jaffier having thus become navob of Bengal, Bahar,
and Oriffa, fhortly after his acceffion prepared to march towards
Patna, having fome doubts of the fubmiflion of Ramnarain,
the deputy governor of that city j and alfo to quell fome dif-
orders which had broken out in the diftridt of Poorneah from
the rebellion of fome principal dependants of the late fojedaur,
A, D. 1757, Shokut Jung. In the month of Suffir, of the year 1171, he
moved to his camp, leaving his fon Meeraun in the direction of
affairs at Moorfhudabad. Here, having fome fufpicions of Meerza
Mhadee, brother of Serauje ad Dowlah, he commanded him to
be put to death. Some report, that he was difpatched by poi-
fon, and others, that he was preffed to death between two
boards ufed to tighten bales of fhawls. The caufe of this ac-
tion was the difaffedtion of Raja Doolubram, who now repent-
ed of having efpoufed the caufe of Meer Jaffier, and was pri-
vately confpiring to refcue Meerza Mhadee from confinement
and declare him foubahdar, not having been rewarded for his
late treachery, as he expedted.

Upon Meer Jaffier' s arrival at Raujemahal, having appointed
Khadim Houfiein Khan fojedaur of Poorneah, he difiniffed him
to reftore order in that diftridt, which was effedted with little
oppofition, the rebels being deferted by their adherents at the
fight of his army. Ramnarain, upon the approach of the navob.

towards

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

375

towards Patna, unwilling to truft his promifes of fafety for his
perfon and continuance in employment, endeavoured to obtain the
fupport of the Englilh ; for which purpofe he difpatched his
agent Geeda Mul to procure affurances of protection from colonel
Clive, before he would agree to vifit the navob. Geeda Mul
reprefented to the navob, that his matter was fearful of vifiting
him without the fecurity of the Engliffi ; to which Meer Jaf-
fier readily agreed. The vaqueel having gained over the fecre-
tary, prepared a paper, and brought it for the approbation of
the navob, who being at that time fomewhat intoxicated, would
not read himfelf, but ordered his fecretary to tell him the con-
tents, which he did in a flight manner, and varying from the
fpirit. The navob being fatisfied, fent the paper to colonel Clive,
requefting that he would copy and ratify it with his feal, which he
did, and kept the draft. The contents of the paper were in thefe
words : “ You may come with fafety and fatisfa&ion of mind.
" The fecurity of your perfon, honour, fortune, and continu-
“ ance in employ, without fettling your accounts, refts upon
“ me.” Geeda Mul halted upon the wings of fpeed to Ram-
narain, who repaired without hefitation to the navob’s camp;
where, however, he vifited firfl: colonel Clive, who fent an offi-
cer of rank to introduce him to Meer Jaffier. The navob was
offended at his difrefped in not coming firfl: to him, and com-
manded him to remain in the camp, which he did, till the
arrival of the army at the city of Patna.

Meer Jaffier upon his arrival at Patna was vifited by all the
refpedtable inhabitants, to pay their allegiance upon his accef-
fion to the foubahdary, and among them were many, who hav-
ing formerly lived with him on terms of intimate equality, hoped
to ihare the advantages of his exaltation, but were mofily dif-
appointed, by a cool reception. Among thefe was Meerza bhumfe
ad Dien, who, in the days of his diflrefs, had aliiited him with

a fum

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

a fum of money, and now hoped to have it repaid, and to
enjoy the favour of the navob ; who, however, affirmed towards
him a diftant behaviour, fearful, as the Meerza was a man of wit,
and free of fpeech, that he might affiime too much upon their
former intimacy. One day it happened, notwithstanding, that
Shumfe ad Dien being admitted to his prefence, was going to fpeak,
when the navob, expe&ing a reproach, faid, “ I have not for-
“ gotten your former kindnefs, which I mean to repay ; but at
“ prefent the expenfes of the Englifh army and other contingen-
“ cies are fo great, it is not in my power. When God Shall give
“ me ability and opportunity, I will not be unmindful of your
“ obligations.” The Meerza, pretending feelings of companion,
faid with a fobbing accent, “ No more, my Lord, I am Struck
“ with your fufferings j but, alas ! Serauje ad Dowlah plundered
“ my houfe, or I fhould now have e Helmed contributing to
“ your relief as an honour.” Meer Jaffier was Womanishly fond
of jewels, of which he always wore great numbers in his higher
fortunes. On this day, his neck, arms, wrifls, and turban were
more richly ornamented than ufual, and the Meerza wittily faid,
“ To be fure, thefe few Hones about your perfon are not of
any great value to any one ; but I Should think a blow from
“ one of your highnefs’s hands as an honour and fatisfadtion.”
Again, fome enemy of the Meerza’s informed the navob, that
his attendants had picked a quarrel with thofe of colonel Cliv$,
who was much offended ; and the Meerza coming in foon after,
Meer Jaffier reproved him, faying, " Know you not the rank
“ of the colonel, that your people fhould dare to infult any of
“ his friends?” The Meerza, putting on a look of fubmiffion,
exclaimed, “ My patron, how dare I even look the colonel in
1( the face with Headinefs, who every morning of my life make
“ three obeifances to his *afs.” Meer Jaffier was filent, and
pretended not to underftand the meaning.

After

» Alluding to Meer Jaffier’s being Supported by the colonel.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

377

After fome days /pent in ceremony and entertainments, Meer
Jaffier, who intended conferring the government of Patna upon
his brother Cauzim Khan, demanded from Ramnarain an ac-
count of his difburfements, and the balance of revenue due to
government ; but the wily Hindoo, who had, expecting this de-
mand, fecured the protection of the Englifh, complained to
colonel Clive, who reprefented it to the navob as a breach of
faith. The navob replied, that he faw no reafon why he fhould
refign the province to Ramnarain, and injure his own brother,
for the promife of the colonel. Clive obferved, that he had
before told his highnefs of the difagreement which the inter-
ference of the Englifh would occafion j but as, notwithflanding,
he had importunately entreated him to write a letter of pro-
tection under his own feal, he muft therefore now abide by
the contents, for he could not fuffer a breach of his promife.
Meer Jaffier denied having fent him inftruCtions to write what
he had done \ but the colonel, producing his own draft, he
was filent on the fubjeCt to him, but abufed his fecretary and
Ramnarain’s vaqueel for impofing upon him, who, however,
infilled that they had written literally according to his inflrue-
tions, which he had forgotten in the multiplicity of bufinefs.
He was obliged to confirm Ramnarain in his employment, as
the colonel infilled on his obferving the engagement. This af-
fair being fettled, the navob made, a pilgrimage to the tomb
of a celebrated fakeer, and afterwards convened a numerous
aflembly of devotees, for whom he made an entertainment on
the bank of the Ganges, at Patna j where he alfo celebrated
the Hindoo feafl of Hooly with much feflivity and fplendour.
He then began his return to Moorfhudabad, hunting on his
march with a feleCt party of his attendants at a diflance from
the main body of his army. He was accompanied as he mov-
ed by troops of muficians and fingers upon elephants, who en-
tertained him with their harmony. Amid fuch, luxuries he re-
Vo l. II. A a a gulated.

373

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

gulated the country as he pafled, and at length reached the
palace of Mahabut Jung at Moorfhudabad, where, plunging
more and more into profufion and voluptuoufnefs, he became
regardlefs of all public affairs. Meeraun, his fon, puffed up with
vanity, copied the manners of the diffipated of Dhely, about
four thoufand of whom he had taken into his pay as fol-
diers. Giving himfelf up to women and debauchery, with equal
avidity as his father, though more excufeable, being in. the;
height of youth, there was no one to attend to the bufinefs of
government. The troops at length became fo diftreffed through
want of pay, that they pined with hunger, and turned their
horfes loofe upon the plains, for want of grain to feed them.
Except the few thoufand guards of Meeraun, his women, and
favourite attendants, with thofe of the navob his father, no one
was regularly paid ; and the controul of thefe extenfive . pro-
vinces was left to the direction of three fpies, Cheeny Laal,
Munny Laal, and Aknoon Sing. By their influence the renters
were protected in embezzling the revenues, fo that fhortly there
was not money fufficient carried to the trealury to bear the
expenles of the navob and his fon.

When only one year and three months of this wretched
government had elapfed, the troops were driven to defpair, and
the knife had now reached the bone ; till, at length, Abd al
Hadee Khan and other chiefs confpired to remove Jaffler Khan
from the mufnud by affaffination, when he fhould attend the
a aflembly of mourn’ng in the month of Mohirrimj but many
perfons being in the plot, fome one betrayed it to the navob
on the fecond evening of the meeting, and he came no more
into public. Enquiry was made into the particulars of the trea-
fon, and many turned informers to fave their lives. Abd al

Hadee

* In commemoration of the deaths of the Imaums, grandfons of Mahum-
mud.

mSTORY OF BENGAL.

379

Hadee Khan, finding himfelf difcovered, fortified himfelf in his
own houfe, till, at length, obtaining leave to quit the provinces,
he embarked with his family from Moorffiudabad ; but was
afterwards feized and put to death, on his way up the Ganges,
by a band of Afghauns, commiflioned by the navob for that
purpofe. Meer Cafium Khan, another of the conspirators, was
alfo aflaffinated. ' The widow of Mahabut Jung, his daughter
Goofeety Begum and Ameeny Begum, alfo Lootf al Niffa, the
widow of Serauje ad Dowlah, and her infant daughter, being
fufpeCted of encouraging the plot, were fent into confinement at
Dacca. About three months after this, rumours were fpread of
the prince Ali Goher’s intention to enter Bengal. This intel-
ligence alarming the navob and his fon, they, for their own
fafety, paid up part of the arrears due to the troops, and pro-
mifed more attention and regularity in future.

Ramnarain, the deputy governor of Patna* was a man of
much cunning and intrigue, void of any real regard to Meer
Jaffier Khan and his family, but, from the connection he had
formed with the English, he dared not openly aCt contrary to
treaty, though fecretly he wiffied his deflruCtion, and was on the
watch for opportunity to effeCt it. Rajas Sunder Sing and Pulwaun
Sing, two principal zemindars, out of gratitude to the protection of
Mahabut Jung, hated Meer Jaffier, as the deftroyer of his fa-
mily, and meditated rebellion. The greateft number of the prin-
cipal people of the provinces, difgufted with the bad qualities
and tyranny of the late navob, had been pleafed at his depofal,
judging, that as Meer Jaffier was advanced in years, and had
long ferved Mahabut Jung, he would follow his example; but
upon his acceffion to power, experiencing his behaviour, and
more particularly the cruel actions of his fon Meeraun, a mon-
fter of his time, they now regretted the fall of Serauje ad
Dowlah, and the old faying of “ Blefs our former ruler,” was

A a a 2 revived

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

revived on the tongues, of the wife and the Ample. Meer Jaf-
fier, who, when paymafter to Mahabut Jung, was celebrated
among the troops for his profufe liberality, upon afcending the
mufnud, became as much decried for his avarice. It is faid,
that a perfon afking him the caufe of this change in his be-
haviour, he replied, that in Mahabut Jung’s time the public
treafure was another’s ; but now it was his own, his heart felt
uneafy to part with it.a

In this fituation of affairs, the prince Ali Goher, eldeft fon
of the reigning emperor, having made his efcape from the hands
of his father’s minifter, who wifhed to keep him in con-
finement, fought protection with Mahummud Koollee Khan,
the foubahdar of Aleabad. This nobleman was a young man
of courage, but of little conduct. Ambitious of enlarging the
limits of his government, he was ealily tempted, by reports
of diforders in Bahar and Bengal, to attempt their conqueft
under the royal fan&ionj for which purpofe he offered his
lerv-ices to the fugitive prince, who readily accepted them. Ma-
hummud K ooljee was alfo fupported in his hopes by affur-
ances of aid from Shujah ad Dowlah, his coufin, and foubah-
dar of Oude ; who, however, 'was not fincere in his promifes,
and only promoted the expedition in order to remove his rela-
tion from the fort of Aleabad,. which he wifhed to feize for
himfelf. Mahummud Koollee Khan had alfo received invitations
to invade Bahar from Sunder Sing, Pulwaun Sing, and other
difaffe&ed zemindars. The former was truly attached to the fa-
mily of Mahabut Jung, and burned with ardour to revenge the
ruin of his family. He pofieffed true honour, courage, and
many other good qualities ; fo that, had fate permitted mm, he
might have attained his objeCt j but his life was too ihort.

Under

a In his pleafures, however, he was ridiculoufly profufe, and laviihed fums
upon them, which, paid to his troops, would have fecured his power.

HISTORY GF BENGAL. og,

Under pretence of regulating his didridts, and vifiting Raja
Ramnarain, he left his fortrefs of “Teekaurry, formed an en-
campment, and began to levy troops. While making prepara-
tions, a favourite officer defired the advance of a thouland
rupees ; which demand, as the like had often been repeat-
ed, caufed the raja to fay in a jelling manner to his attend-
ants, “ Gholaum Ghofe inherits much bravery from his fa-
“ ther, but this meannefs of borrowing is from his mother,

“ and darkens his better qualities.” Gholaum Ghofe, hearing
of this obfervation, was much enraged, and refolved to murder
his patron. He came and alked for a thoufand rupees ; upon
which the raja told him, (C Such importunity was not decent,”
and begged he would defid f but the other impudently de-
clared he ffiould not rife till he had given him the fum. The
raja, upon this, attempting to rife, he feized his garment, cry-
ing, “ Sit down till you give me the money.” Sunder Sing
exclaimed, « Are you mad P* when the traitor dabbed him mor-
tally with a dagger; then rafting on the attendants, he wound-
ed feveral, and forced his way through them. Mounting his
horfe, he fled from the camp, but was overtaken by Soorut
Sing, a relation of the deceafed, who called out, “ It is cowardly
“ to fly, return and fight me.” He Hopped, and difmounting
from his horfe, a bloody conflict took place. At length, the
traitor’s fword being broken, he ruffied upon his antagonist and
threw him to the ground. At this time fome villagers appear-
ing, Soorut Sing cried? out, “ Why Hand you?' behold here the
“ murderer of your prince !” Upon this, they ran upon him
and put him to death with clubs and fwords. Thus was Sun-
der Sing prevented in his career of joining the prince.

In the year 1*72, Mahummud Koollee Khan, under the A. D. 1759
royal dandard of Ali Gohir, who had procured from his father
the emperor grants of Bengal, Bahar, and Orifla, began his

march

* A diftrift in Bahar.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

march towards Patna. When Raja Ramnarain heard of his
having approached beyond Banaras, he was much alarmed, nei-
ther the navob nor the Englilh army having yet moved from
Moorfhudabad. The dignity of the royal name, and the terror
of the Mogul arms, filled his mind with dread, and made him
adt with caution. He pitched his camp at a little diftance
from the city, refolving to join either the prince or the navob,
whoever fhould firft arrive in his vicinity. Hearing that the
royal army had crofted the Carumnafla, and that Meer Jaffier
had not yet left the capital, he thought it wifeft to treat with
the former ; but firft afked the advice of Mr. Amyatt, the
chief of the English fadtory at Patna, obferving, that ** with-
“ out the arrival of thfe navob’s army, he was unable to cope
“■ with the enemy.” Mr. Amyatt replied, that “ as to him-
“ fe If, if afliftance arrived, he would remain at Patna ; but if
“ not, on the near approach of the enemy, he would retire
“ fome days’ journey to the eaftward towards Bengal, and wait
“ the orders of council or contingency of events; that as for
“ Ramnarain, he fhould try to amufe the enemy as long as he
“ could, till orders or help arrived from the navob ; but in
u cafe he was hard pufhed, to proceed as he fhould find moft
“ for his own advantage.”

The Raja, having received the advice he wifhed for, began
to amufe both parties. He wrote to Meeraun and colonel Clive,
that he was prepared to refift the enemy, but could not brave
them alone, therefore hoped they would haften to his relief;
and at the fame time he fent emiffaries to fecure the favour
of the prince and Mahummud Koollee Khan. “ I was at this
time at Patna, with my mother and family, but in much dread,
as Meer Jaffier and. Meeraun having heard that my father,
Huddaiut Ali Khan, was with the prince, had written to Ram-
narain to obferve my motions, as they believed that I and my*

relations

a Gholaum Houflein, the native writer of thefe events.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

383

relations were the exciters of his expedition. But the truth is,
I had not the lead: acquaintance with the enemy, nor corref-
pondence with my father, who had long refided at Dhely,
where, like the reft of the nobles, he fpent his time in diffi-
pation, and had married a Cafflmirian woman ; having no con-
cern at all with us or my mother for near fixteen years,
during which he enjoyed offices of great emolument. We alfo,
from the kindnefs of our relations Mahabut Jung and his
nephews, pafled our time in eafe and affluence, nor wanted his
notice ; fo that, except a letter of ceremony now and then, there
was no other communication between us.

Ramnarain was well informed of thefe particulars, and on
the receipt of the navob’s letter aftured me of his protection
from his jealoufy. Upon the approach of the prince nearer
Patna, Mr. Amyatt with the reft of the Engliffl embarked in
their boats, and retired twenty or thirty cofs towards Bengal,
leaving their faCtory under the protection of Ramnarain ; who
by this ftep was confirmed in his refolution to vilit the prince
and Mahummud Koollee Khan. He was, however, advifed
againft it by Raja Moorlydher, chief of the fpies, who judged
Meer Jaffier would in the end prevail from the affiltance of
the Engliffl ; and he thought juftly : but Ramnarain was deeply
imprefled by the awe of royalty, and the ilowneis of the na-
vob and the Engliffl. When refolved upon his conduct, he fent
for me privately, and aiked me to go and fecure him the
prince’s favour through the mediation of my father. I complied,
and fet out for the camp. On the road I met feveral fpies,
who confirmed the news of the prince’s approach. Arriving at
* Aroul, I law Muddar ad Dowlah, who was going on the part
of the prince, and Meerza Mahummud All on that of Ma-
hummud Koollee Khan, as agents, to Ramnarain, mounted on

elephants,

3 A town a few days’ march from Patna.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

elephants, with one hundred horfe. I was aftonilhed, that any
other fhould be fent on this bufinefs than my father, who was
intimately acquainted with the province and its principal inha-
bitants. When I had travelled a yttle farther, I heard that
my brother Nukkee Ali Khan had pined my father, who had
fummoned him by letter. This gave me much concern, as
there was no caufe for his thus fubjedting himfelf to the re-
fentment of the navob of Bengal. About funfet I reached the
prince’s camp, had an interview with my father, and foon dis-
covered, that, from his haughtinefs of difpolition, he had not
courted the attention of Mahummud Koollee Khan, like Mud-
dar ad Dowlah and others, under whofe influence the prince
adted, as upon him indeed he depended for fubfiftance. I afked
him, ** Why he had joined the prince, ftnee * it could anfw^r
" no purpofe but vexation of heart, and the lofs of our jag*
“ hires in Bahar, which we had obtained at the expenfe of fo
4t much time and trouble.” He gave me an angry reply; but
I perceived that he felt the truth of my obfervations. How-
ever, it came indeed rather too late, and his fituation was
pitiable ; for whenever the prince, who was hafty and incon*
liderate, adted contrary to the wifhes of Mahummud Koollee
Khan, he confidered his condudt as originating from the ad-
vice of my father. In fhort, Muddar ad Dowlah, being arrived
at Patna, perfuaded Ramnarain by threats and promifes to vifit
the prince and Mahummud Koollee Khan ; who, on their parts,
agreed that he fhould be continued in the foubahdary. Hear-
ing of this, one day before that appointed for the interview, I
reprefented to my father, <e that Ramnarain was very artful
“ and circumfpedt; that under awe of the prince’s name and
“ the Mogul arms, he had been led to fubmiflion; but, upon
“ feeing the true Rate of the camp, would repent of his timidity,
“ and if allowed to return to the city, would never come back.”
My father angrily replied, " that the family of Timur never

“ dealt

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

“ dealt with treachery to any one.” I anfwered, “ that I did
“ not hint that treachery fhould be ufed, but only that the
“ prince and his army fhould enter Patna with the raja, when
“ he muft of neceffity become their friend, and upon intelli-
“ gence of the fall of the city, the navob’s army would ad-
“ vance lefs rapidly.” He anfwered, “ that Mahummud Koollee
“ Khan had the power.” I advifed him to inform him ; but
he faid, “ that, as he never confulted him, there was no caufe
“ for his intruding his advice.” This enraged me, and I told
him, t( he had given our family to the winds.” He became
more angry, and I was filent.

The day following, I went with my father to the royal tents.
The arrival of the raja, and his being long in private with
Mahummud Koollee Khan, was announced. Lofing all patience,

I mentioned what I had obferved to my father, to Moneer ad
Dowlah and others ; but in vain. At length, Mahummud Koollee
entered the royal prefence, and, having made his obeifance, took
his place as vizier on the left of his highnefs. He inftantly
began to praife the raja, faying, “ He was a wife Hindoo, and
“ fpoke the Perfian with great readinefs; in fhort, that he was
“ fo much pleafed with his abilities, that he had appointed
“ him his own dewan, and given him the deputation of Ale-
“ abad.” The prince naturally afked him, *• How he could
“ place fuch confidence in a perfon at firft fight?” when Mud-
dar ad Dowlah and others, who had been gratified by the raja
with a few thoufands of rupees, immeaiately uttered forth his
praifes for wifdom, fidelity, and all good qualities, offering to
be his pledges. In a little time the raja arrived, and being
obliged to ufe all the ceremonies of royal audience, which he
had never till now been accuftomed to, he came up to the
throne with a terrified afpedl and parched lips, to prefent his
offering, which I forget whether the prince or Muddar ad Dow-
Vol. II. B b b lah

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

lah took from him. He was then invefted with a khelaut ;
but, as he had himfelf till now been only a beftower of them,
he was much wearied with the ' numerous obeifances, neceflfary
at receiving every feparate part of the drefs. When this was
over, having ftood and recollected himfelf a little, I faw him
obferving the wretched appearance of the prince, and the ftrange
manners of his attendants, with contempt, Ihame at his having
come to an interview, and impatience to return. He was foon
difmifled, and went with Mahummud Koollee Khan to his tents,
who permitted him to leave the camp; and the raja, imme-
diately upon his arrival at Patna, iffued orders to Ihut the gates,
and man the walls of the city. For fome days, he continued
to amufe the prince and Mahummud Koollee Khan with trifling
prefents and melfages, in order to prevent hoftilities till the ar-
rival of the navob’s army ; and fuch was the weaknefs of the
enemy, that they fuflfered themfelves to be impofed upon by
his excufes. At length, Mahummud Koollee Khan wifhed to
move his camp to the .eafhvard of the city, through which
was the common road ; but Ramnarain reprefenting to him that
fome diforders might arife on the march, from the irregularity
of the Mogul troops, he confented to go another way ; though
this denial of a paflage made it clear to all, but himfelf, that
the raja was deceiving him till the approach of the navob’s
army. He encamped for fome days near the gardens of Jaffier
Khan, and the raja kept up the farce of loyalty, by pretend-
ing to prepare a flatement of the revenues of the province and
the balance in the treafury; till, at length, intelligence of the
march of Meeraun and colonel Clive from Moorihudabad ar-
riving, and the enemy becoming more urgent in their demands,
he drove the mellengers of Mahummud Koollee Khan from
the city, by the importunate advice of Moorlydher, who was
apprehenfive of the navob’s fufpecting his loyalty j otherwife,

Ramnarain

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

387

Ramnarain would have amufed them without hoftilities, till the
arrival of the Bengal army.

It is a juft obfervation', “ that the weak man ads the fame
“ as the wife, only not till after difgrace and fo it was
with Mahummud Koollee Khan. On receiving the raja’s mef-
fage, which was, “ that he confidered himfelf as a fervant of
“ the navob of Bengal, and had only vifited him as a gueft of
“ his mafter’s, but did not underftand his demand of the pro-
“ vince,” he flew into a violent rage, vowing that he would
bring him by force to the prince the next day. Accordingly,
in the morning he began to cannonade, and the fiege Was car-
ried on for fome days with great brilknefs. In all probability,
Patna would have fallen into his hands, had not the operations
been interrupted by intelligence, which caufed him to raife the
liege and retreat. This was, that Shujah ad Dowlah, who had
obtained his permiflion to Ihelter his women in the fort of Ale-
abad, on pretence of marching to join him, had treacheroufly
feized that place, and poffeffed himfelf of the province. Ma-
hummud Koollee retired from Patna, and the prince, unable to
ad with his own fmall army, reludantly accompanied him. On
his arrival at Phoolwawree, only four miles from the city, he
was met by Mr. Law; who had haftened with his fmall band
of Frenchmen from Chutterpore, (where he had j*efided lince
the fall of Serauje ad Dowlah) to offer his fervices. Mr. Law
remonftrated with him, but in vain, on the folly of a retreat
when he was fo near fuccefs. He marched onwards, and Mr.
Law went to viflt the prince, and offer his afliftance. The
prince unhefitatingly informed him, “ that he depended on
Mahummud Koollee Khan even for his daily expenfes, and
without him could not continue the liege ; therefore muft re-
tire to Chutterpore, in hopes of fupport from the raja of
“ c°untry.” Mr. Law offered to accompany him, and

B b b 2 marched

383

HISTORY OF BENGAL,

marched on in front. Being at Saffaram when he arrived there,
I paid him a viiit ; when he complained loudly of the folly
of the nobles of Hindooftan, who, he faid, were cowardly,
giving up their empire to ruin ; that he had travelled from
the coaft of Bengal to Dhely, and been witnefs of nothing but
oppreffion of the poor and plundering of travellers. “ Though
“ I,” faid he, “ have ufed every argument to excite fuch
“ powerful nobles as a Shujah ad Dowlah and b Ummaud al
** Moolk to regulate the empire, and attempt the recovery of
“ Bengal from the Englifh, they would not attend to me, nor
** underftand their real interests.”

Soon after Mr. Law had paffed, the prince, and with him
my father, arrived; who complained heavily of the behaviour
of Mahummud Koollee Khan and his highnefs, alking my ad-
vice how he fhould proceed. I obferved, <e That as he could
“ not return to Dhely, from the enmity of Ummaud al Moolk,
“ and the prince was unable to fupport him, there was but
“ one refource left, which was, to join Pulwaun Sing, who had
u great intereft with Ramnarain, and could procure the refli-
“ tution of our jaghires, forfeited by joining the prince, fhould
i( Pulwaun Sing fubmit.” This he agreed to ; and accordingly
went to his camp, where the raja gladly received him. Pul-
waun Sing, who was rich and powerful, offered, if the prince
and Mr. Law would remain with him, to hazard an engage-
ment with the Englifh and Meeraun ; but they would not con-
fent, fearful that, as he was a zemindar, he might treacheroufly
deliver them up to the enemy to make his own peace. It was
then agreed, that the prince fhould, to fave appearances, write
a letter to colonel Clive, demanding a fum of money as the

price

* Navob of Oude.

h Prime minifter of the empire*

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

3?9

price of his retreat ; which he commanded me to compofe, and
it was fent by Nobut Khan to the colonel.

When Shujah ad Dowlah heard of the retreat of Ma-
hummud Koollee Khan, he treacheroufly commanded Beny Ba-
hadur, his deputy, and Bulwaun Sing of Banaras,, to intercept
his march, and take him prifoner. They accordingly encamped
their forces near a Ramnuggur, on the high road, and fent word
to the prince and Mr. Law, that they did not mean to moled
them, but would oppofe the progrefs of Mahummud Koollee
Khan; upon which the former feparated from him, and conti-
nued their route to Chutterpore. Mahummud Koollee, againft
the remonftrances of his friends, confented to difband his army,
and throw himfelf on the protection of Shujah ad Dowlah; who
immediately on his arrival, kept him a prifoner, and fhortly
after put him to death.

Meer Jaffier Khan, upon hearing of the vilit of Ramnarain
to the prince, was much alarmed, and entreated the afliftance.
of colonel Clive, who agreed to march with his fon Meeraun
to the relief of Patna; but it was not the intention of the En-
glifh, who at this time were unacquainted with the low date
of the empire, to oppofe, if it was poffible to avoid it, the em-
peror’s fon, for whofe dignity they had much refpeCt ; and it is
certain, had he and Mahummud Koollee Khan aCted prudently,
a treaty might have been concluded to their honour and advan-
tage ; but their weak conduct ruined their affairs. Meeraun upon
his march halted at Raujemahal, intending to allure Khadim
Houffein Khan, fojedaur of Poorneah, to an interview, at which
he had refolved to affafiinate him, being jealous of his power,
and fearful of his joining the prince. This defign, however, be-
ing reported abroad, the fojedaur, who was a prudent man, march-
ed from Poorneah up the banks of the Ganges, giving out that

* The palace of the raja of Banaras.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

he meant to join the young navob ; but upon his arrival at
Currangola, nearly oppofite Raujemahal, he halted, and fent an
agent to colonel Clive, reprefenting his fears of Meeraun’s trea-
chery, and begging his protection. The colonel accordingly dif-
fuaded Meeraun from his delign; and having met the fojedaur
in a boat on the middle of the Ganges, allured him of fafety.
Khadim Houflein Khan, however, . not chufing to vilit Meeraun,
the colonel obtained for him the navob’s permiflion, much a-
gainft his inclination, to return to Poorneah, Clive being fecurity
for his fidelity to the navob, and the navob’s fincerity to the
fojedaur. Meeraun then proceeded towards Patna with the co-
lonel ; but before their arrival the enemy had retreated. Near
the city they were vifited by Ramnarain, who artfully excufed
his interview with Mahummud Koollee Khan, and became more
favoured than before. Though he had importunately entreated
me to be his agent with the prince, and I had complied with
his requefl againfl my own inclinations, he now abufed me to the
navob as a traitor, faying, “ It was a ftrange world, that I fhould
“ be fo deceitful as to defert his fervice, and join my father;”
though he himfelf was indeed the traitor, for his refolution was
to join the enemy, till he faw their weaknefs. With fuch arts
he preferved his own reputation ; but it is furprizing how he
could perfuade the Englifh that he was their friend, after having
vifited the enemy. The faCt is, he was immenfely rich ; and,
in thefe days, money can do wonders, even give vice the ap-
pearance of virtue. After fame days flay at Patna, Meeraun and
the Englifh marched againft Pulwaun Sing, who fled to the hilly
country for fecurity ; at the fame time fending . offers of fubmif-
fion, which were accepted. Ramnarain perfuaded the young na-
vob to return to Patna ; which he willingly did, being fatigued
with the campaign, leaving Ramnarain and the colonel to adjuft
affairs with the zemindar. Pulwaun Sing honourably infilled on
the pardon of my father and the continuance of his jaghires,

before

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

39*

before he would accept his own, which was granted. God be
praifed, that what I had forefeen, came to pafs. The Englifh
approved much the letter I had written to them for the prince,
and, being moved with companion, colonel Clive fent him a
fum of money. All affairs being concluded with Pulwaun Sing,
Ramnarain and the Englifh returned to Patna.

Meeraun being now anxious to return to Moorfhudabad, pre-
pared for his departure ; but firft wifhed to drive from his fer-
vice Aftaulut Khan and fome other officers, of whofe at-
tachment he and his father had entertained fome fufpicions,
but had concealed their jealoufies on account of the prince’s
invafion, left they fhould have joined him. Meer Jaffier had
inftrudted his fon to leave them behind him without their in-
formation, left rage might provoke them to attempt his perfon ;
but the truth is, they had no defigns inimical to the father or
the fon. They had ever been attached to Meer Jaffier, and on
that account were difplaced from the fervice of government by
Serauje ad Dowlah, and fuffered great hardships, remaining with-
out employment for twelve months. When I was, by the acci-
dent already related, obliged to join the prince’s army, I wrote
a letter to Dilleer Khan, with whom I had a exchanged turbans,
inviting him to embrace the prince’s fervice, and requefting him
to efcort my family to the camp. He wrote me in anfwer,
that his own head fhould be fecurity for my honour ; but that as
for deferting Meer Jaffier, he never would, though he fhould be
forfaken by all.

Meeraun, agreeably to the inftrudtions of his father, till the
arrival of Ramnarain pretended much friendfhip for Dilleer Khan,,
but afterwards forbad him his prefence, and departed fuddenly
in boats towards the capital, leaving him and his followers un-
der

By exchange of tuibans, perfons adopt each other as brothers.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

der long arrears of pay. Finding he could obtain no fatisfa&ion
from Ramnarain, who pleaded that he had no orders to advance
him money, Dilleer Khan, with his friends and followers, went
to Teekaury, and offered, their fervices to Futteh Sing and Boo-
niaud Sing, relations of the late Sunder Sing, who entertained
them. Not long afterwards, Dilleer Khan joined Kaumgar Khan,
the zemindar of Terhoot, in a petition to the prince, that he
would march again towards Patna, and his highnefs readily
embraced their offers of affiftance. Dilleer Khan would have
prevailed on me to join them, but I refufed, and repaired to
Patna. Ramnarain would have denied me a relidence, at the
inftigation of Moorlydher and others ; but Mr. Fullerton, fur-
geon to the Englifh fadtory, by permiffion of Mr. Amyatt, the
chief, gave me apartments at his own houfe, I being intimately
acquainted with thofe gentlemen. Upon intelligence of the
prince’s approach, Ramnarain encamped with his forces at fome
diftance from the city, and was joined by captain Cochran, with
fome Englifh foldiers, fepoys, and fome pieces of artillery.

The prince had croffed the Carumnaffa, and juft entered the
province of Bahar, when he received intelligence of the murder
of his father Aulumgeer 2d; upon which he difpatched an exprefs
to my father, then at Houffeinabad, commanding him to his pre-
fence, and afking his advice on this event. My father, in reply,
recommended him to affume immediately the imperial authority,
to fend the 1 inkftand of the vizarut to Shujah ad Dowlah, fou-
bahdar of Oude, and the khelaut of ameer al amra to Nu-
jeeb ad Dowlah, a powerful Afghaun chief ; alfo to difpatch
Munneer ad Dowlah on an embafiy to Ahmed Shaw Abuallee,
to requeft his affiftance, and commands to the Afghaun chiefs
of Hindooftan to acknowledge him as emperor. The prince,

accord-

* The vi7ier is inverted in office by a prefent of an inkrtand and canopy
from the emperor.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

393

accordingly, afcended the throne, by the title of Shaw Aulum,
and adted according to my father’s advice. He was now joined
by Kaumgar Khan with five thoufand horfe, Dilleer Khan, and
Aflaulut Khan, with their followers, when he proceeded to en-
gage Ramnarain, who was defeated, and with difficulty gained
the city. Captain Cochran and Mr. Barwell were killed, with
fome foldiers and fepoys ; but the remainder of the Engliffi,
having fpiked one of their cannon, retreated in good order to
Patna. Raja Moorlydher and Omar Khan, a principal chief,
were taken prifoners. The emperor and Kamgaur Khan did
not purfue the enemy, having fuffered much in the adtion, and
loft the two gallant chiefs Dilleer Khan and Aflaulut Khan,
Had the royal army followed the fugitives, it is moft probable,
Patna would have fallen without refiftance. For fome days the
city was in the utmoft confufion ; but at length, no enemy ap-
pearing, the fpirits of the inhabitants revived.

The emperor next marched to attack Meeraun, who was
advancing from Moorfhudabad ; but the royal army was defeated
by the gallantry of the Englifh. In this adtion Meeraun was
wounded. Shaw Aulum, by advice of Kaumgar Khan, now
haftened by forced marches through the hills, in hopes of fur-
prizing Meer Jaffierin his capital; but the navob having timely
intelligence from his fon Meeraun, was prepared ; upon which the
royal army ' retreated, and marched by another route towards
Patna, hoping, as Meeraun had moved towards Moorfhudabad
to the affiftance of his father, that the city would fall an -eafy
prey before he could return to relieve it. Unfortunately for
them, they halted a few days at Bahar, which gave time to
Rarrnarain to prepare for defence; for the greater part of his
troops were with Meeraun, and only a few fepoys in the Englifh
fadtory. Upon intelligence of the approach of the enemy, as
many troops as were in the neighbouring diftridts were called
Vol, II. C c c in.

39 4

HISTORY OF BENGAL,

in, and Mr. Amyatt encreafed his force to about three com-
panies of fepoys*, from the fcveral Rations. At length the enemy
commenced the liege, and a few nights after, Mr. Law and
his Frenchmen attempted an efcalade, but were defeated by the
vigilance and activity of the Englilh and Raja Shittabroy. They
repeated their attempt a fecond evening in a different quarter,
with the fame ill fuccefs ; but the Ipirits of the garrifon began
to fall, efpecially of Ramnarain and his followers, when they
were revived by the arrival of an Englilh detachment under
captain Knox, who had marched from Burdwan in thirteen days,
and reached the bank of the river oppofite the city the morn-
ing after the laft alfault. The following evening, the Englilh
made a fally upon the beliegers, who were ealily defeated.
Kaumgar Khan now retired towards Gyah Maunpore with, the
emperor, and raifed contributions upon the neighbouring diltriCts,
for his fupport.

Shaw Aulum repeatedly fummoned my father to his pre-
fence, but he, unwilling to offend the navob of Bengal, evaded
coming; till at length, Kaumgar Khan, to oblige him, detach-
ed Sheoput Mharatta to plunder his jaghire ; he was then
forced to comply, being without help, and prepared for his de-
parture to the royal camp. Upon this, Ramnarain endeavoured
to excite the refentment of the Englilh againft me ; oblerv-
ing, that my father, notwithftanding the reltoration. of his jag-
hire, was leagued with the enemy and I with him, at the
fame time that I enjoyed the Englilh protection. Mr. Amyatt
fpoke to me on -the fubjeCt, and defired I would write to per-
luade my father from joining the emperor. I told him, “ that
“ my writing would be of no effect, while my father was ex-
pofed to the ravages of the enemy ; but that, if he fhould
** be allowed to come and refide in the city, he would wil-
“ lingly avoid going to the emperor; that as for myfelf, I had

“ not

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

not the leaft correfpondence with the enemy, fince my ar-
“ rival at Patna.” Mr. Amyatt faw the julfice of my re-
marks, and affured me of his protection ; bat deiired I would
write, which I did, declaring as before, that my father mud
of necefiity obey the emperor, while he and his family were in
the open country expofed to his difpleafure. It fo happened,
he repaired to the royal camp againit his inclination, and was
honoured with the firft place in his majefty’s confidence.

The enemy continued in the country of Kaumgar Khan and
Teekaury, waiting the fuccefs of the embafly to Ahmed Shaw
Abdallee. At this period, Khadim Houfiein Khan, being fear-
ful of the treachery of Meeraun, refolved to join the emperor ;
and having feized all the money he could from the inhabitants,
marched from. Poorneah with five or fix thoufand horfe, about
feven thoufand infantry, and upwards of forty pieces of artil-
lery, towards Patna, and foon arrived near Hajeepore, on the
bank of the river oppofite the city. Had he done this before
the arrival of captain Knox, Patna would certainly have fallen
into the hands of the emperor, and Khadim Iiouflein Khan
would have acquired great honour. Ramnarain, upon intelli-
gence of his approach, confulted with Mr. Amyatt ; who ob-
ferved, that as the emperor was at a diftance from the city,
the raja fhould detach the greater part of the forces with cap-
tain Knox, who had undertaken to crofs the river and engage
with Khadim Houfiein Khan. Ramnarain was aftonifhed he
fhould think of attempting it with fo finall a force ; but Mr.
Amyatt prefiing him, he promifed to prepare his troops to join
the Englifh. Mr. Amyatt alfo defired the afliftance of Raja.
Shittabroy, who with great willingnefs joined captain Knox: with
his followers, about two hundred horfe and foot. The Englifh
detachment confined of three or four companies of fepoys, one
of Europeans, and two field pieces of artillery. The troops of

C c c z Ramnarain,

39S

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

Ramnarain, according to the ufage of the prefent times, delay-
ed their march to fettle arrears of pay and other affairs, do
that not one man of them joined the captain ; but on the con-
trary, Hummeed ad Dien, a principal jemmautdaur, endea-
voured to perfuade Shittabroy to return, by repreienting the folly
of attacking fuch a force as Khadim Houfiein Khan’s with a
handful of men, and infinuating that Ramnarain wifhed his de-
ftruCtion, and would be glad of the defeat of- his own troops,
to whom he owed confiderable ariears; but that he and other
officers had refolved not to ri(k their lives and fortunes by
joining the raffi, infatuated pngliffi. Shittabroy, however, was
not to be diverted from his attachment, and accompanied cap-
tain Knox acrofs the river to meet the enemy, who, contrary
to the expectation of Ramnarain and the inhabitants of the
city, were defeated with great (laughter, and the lofs of great
part of their baggage and artillery. Upon this Khadim Houftein
Khan retreated towards the diftriCt of Butteah, and captain
Knox, unable to purfue him, left the abfence of his detach-
ment ffiould leave Patna expo fed to the emperor’s army, re-
crofted the river a few days after the battle. Shittabroy, by
his gallantry and fidelity, defer vedly acquired the confidence of
the Englifh, who rewarded him with great liberality.

Not long after' this event, Meeraun, who had marched from
Moorfhudabad upon intelligence of the defection of Khadim
Houftein Khan, arrived near Patna with his own army and the
Englifh forces under the command of colonel Calliaud. With-
out entering the city, they crofted the river in purluit of the
rebels ; who having already been defeated by fo few of the
Englifh, ftrove now only to eftfeCt his retreat from the pro-
vinces. * He kept up a fort of running fight for feveral days
with the navob, till his progrefs was (topped by the hills and
the river Ghunduc; fo that he muft inevitably have fallen into

the

HISTORY OF BENGAL,

397

the hands of Meeraun, had not an unforefeen event faved him
from deftruCtion.

•As it was now the commencement of the rainy feafon, and
the decree of divine vengeance hung over Meeraun, about the
third hour of the night of Wednefday the eighteenth of Zee-
kaud, 1173, a heavy florin began. The world was dark and A. 0,176©*
glcomy to Meeraun and his aiTociates, and the fplendour of the
day of his life and profperity changed to the black night of
deftru&ion. About a third part of the night was elapfed, when
his companions, with his attendants, were difmifted. Meeraun,
to guard againft the violence of the ftorm, quitting his large
tent, retired to a fmaller one, called, from the inventor of it,
a Dulleel Khaunee, low, and without walls, fecured by ftrong
pegs fixed in the ground very clofe. A favourite courtezan,
with whom he generally Hept, alfo two or three other finging
girls, a ilory- teller, and a domeftic to bpat his limbs, were
with him. As the life of the women was yet to remain, after
a Ihort time he difmifted them ; whern the domeftic began to
pat his feet, and the ftory-teller his charm, to the fleep of
death. God knows, whether he was fleeping, or his eye wake-
ful in expectation of the meflenger of fate, when, in the height
of a moll heavy Ihower, the threatening thunder of avenging
anger roared, and the lightning of wrath defcended on the
head of Meeraun ; who reached the place of final vengeance in
the poilure in which he lay upon his bed. The fame flafti
falling on the domeftic and the ftory- teller, killed them alfo.

Some

a This is the true account of Meeraun’s death; which Mr. Burke, deceived
■by fa'fe reports, in the opening of his charges againft Mr. Haftings, attributed
to the treachery of the Lnglilh government.

b This pattihgjOf the limbs is common in the Eaft, to promote circulation
of the blood.

39?

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

Some time after the accident, when the fury of the ftorm had
abated, the attendants whofe turn it was to watch, coming in,
faw them in the fleep of death, and immediately, without noife
or clamour, informed fome of the principal officers, whofe tents
were neareft. Upon examination, five or fix fmail holes were
found on the back part of his head, and, on his body, ftreaks
like the marks of a whip. His fcymetar, which lay near his
head on the bed, had alfo holes in it, and part of the point
was melted. The tentpole appeared as if rotted.

Meeraun was of a bloody and unrelenting difpofition. With
him, the flighted: jealouly was fufficient to bring death on its
objedt. By his inftigation, Khaujeh Hadee Khan and Meer
Cauzim Khan were affaffinated on fufpicion of difloyalty. He
killed feveral women of his haram with his own hand, and
would boaft of the adl, faying, “ this was the true mode of
“ clearing up doubts, and eafing the mind of jealoufies.” With
this favage ferocity, he procured the death of Ameena Begum
and Goofeety Begum, the daughters of Mahabut Jung, whom
he caufed to be drowned; and among his papers was found
a lift of many perfons whom he had refolved to cut off at
the conclufion of the campaign, determined, as he faid, to rid
himfelf of the dilloyal, and fit down in repofe with his friends.
But the Almighty, who is protestor of the univerfe, would not
permit fuch barbarity. When he beholds a people immerfed in
wickednefs, he commits the guidance of power over them to
a tyrant, that he may puniffi their offences : but he lets not
that tyrant remain for ever over his fervants^ The government
of the oppreffive has no permanency, for the fcripture truly
fays, “ Dominion may continue even with infidelity, but cannot
t( with cruelty. If,, indeed, after neceffary feverity, the cruel
“ become juft, he may eftablifh their power; or elfe, remedy-

“ irig

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

399

« ing evil by evil, he fends one more cruel than themfelves to
*e overthrow their profperity.”

On the nineteenth, in the morning early, the fate of Mee-
raun was difclofed by his fervants to colonel Calliaud, the com-
mander of the Englifh 'army, who agreed with them on the
propriety of concealing his death from the troops. The body
being opened in his prefence, the bowels were taken out and
buried on the fpot. Orders of march were iffued, and the
corpfe was carried, dreffed as if alive, upon an elephant, a re-
port being given out that Meeraun was indifpofed ; but his
death was foon fpread abroad, and the carrying of his corpfe
in this manner was regarded as an expofure of it, in revenge
for the difgrace offered to the body of Serauje ad Dowlah;
Colonel Calliaud when arrived near Butteah prepared a hearfe,
and fent off the corpfe to the Ganges, where it was embarked
in a boat, and carried down to Raujemahal for interment. The
army then returned to Patna, under the direction of Raujebul-
lub, Meeraun’s dewan, where it remained during the rainy
feafon ; the emperor flill continuing in the vicinity of Teekaury,
and • railing contributions in the diftri&s for his fupport. About
this time, fome changes took place among the Englifh. Colonel
Clive had returned to Europe, leaving Mr. Holwell in the
government till the arrival of Mr. Henry Vanfittart, who was
appointed to fucceed him, from Madrafs. Mr. Amyatt, hav-
ing received' fome flight, repaired to Calcutta, where colonel
Calliaud was alfo ordered, and the command of the Englifh
army at Patna devolved upon major Carnac.

The navob Meer Jaffier having, through grief for the death
of his fon, loft what underftanding he pofleffed, the public
affairs became neglected, and confulion pervaded every depart-
ment. The navob, from neceifity, encreafed the conference

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

of his ion in law Meer Caufim Khan, to whom he had a great
averfion, and fent him to negotiate fome bufinefs at Calcutta;
where, during his agency, he impreffed the minds of the coun-
cil of his fuperiority of ability for government over Meer Jaf-
fier or his fon ; and, indeed, he was eminently diftinguilhed
among his cotemporaries and family for penetration and con-
duct. Having finifhed his embafly, he returned to the navob,
who, pleafed at his fuccefs, fhewed him more kindnefs than
formerly, and he became of much influence at court.

At this time the troops, being greatly in arrears, furrounded
the palace in a mutinous manner, demanding payment ; and
Meer Caufim had the addrefs to quell them, by offering him-
felf as fecurity for the redrefs of their grievances. Soon after
this it became neceflary for him to repair again to Calcutta.
Meer Jaffler was unwilling at firft to permit him; but fate
would not allow him to prevent him.

Mr. Vanfittart was by this time arrived. To him Meer
Caufim related the negled: of the navob in the affairs of his
government, the difordered ftate of the revenues and army, and
the expenfes of the houfehold, owing to the influence of a few
mean people without ability, as Cheeny Laal, Munny Laal,
and Aknoon Sing Halkarrah, over every department. Mr. Van-
fittart, who was unequalled among the Englifh for his judg-
ment and abilities in flate affairs, perceived that Meer Caufim
Khan was among all the relations and fervants of the navob
moft diftinguifhed in undemanding, and he wifhed to form fome
plan for the regulation of the declining provinces. It occurred
to him, that Meer Caufim Khan fhould be entrufled with . the
adminiftration of the government, as the . deputy of his father
in law the navob, to whom he fhould regularly pay a fum
adequate to the proper fupport of his dignity. He laid his plan

before

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

401

before the council for their advice and approbation, and the
majority aflented to its execution; but Mr. Amyatt, Mr. Ellis,
Mr. Batfon, and major Carnac, difapproved the meafure. Though
the inability of Meer Jaffier was not fo problematical as not
to be perceived by them, efpecially Mx. Amyatt; yet, as he
wilhed his own party to prevail over Mr. Vanfittart, he op-
pofed his plans, according to the maxim, “ 1 It is impoffible to
4t jove Alee, and not hate Maweeah.” The two parties ac-
cufed each other, in their letters to Europe, of every mif-
management ; and their mutual enmity caufed the ruin of num-
bers, as I fhall hereafter relate. The governor’s party being the
ftrongeft, his meafures took place. Meer Caufim was congra- .
tulated on his fuccefs, and returned to Moorfhudabad ; where
it was agreed that Mr. Vanfittart ffiould repair to execute his
plan. This he did very fpeedily, accompanied by Mr. Haftings
and fome other gentlemen, with a detachment of the army.

Upon the governor’s arrival at Moradbaug, a garden houfe
oppofite the city, on the bank of the river Baugruttee, Meer
Jaffier the next morning came to vffit him, and was informed
of the plan agreed upon by the council, which he ftrenuoufly
refufed to accede to, though Mr. Vanfittart ufed every argu-
ment to convince him that no hurt was intended to his dignity,

but that he only meant, by appointing Meer Caufim his deputy,
to eafe him of a load of cares, which his infirm ftate of health
rendered him incapable of bearing, and to refcue his honour
and fafety from the dangers they fuftained by the ill behaviour
of ignorant and felf-interefted minifters. After fome time, the
navob took leave, and returned to his palace. On the way
back, he met Meer Caufim, who was coming to Moradbaug,

Vol. II. D d d and

t . »

* The family of Alee, fon in law of Mahummud, was deftroyed by the
caliph Maweeah, who is held in abhorrence by the feet of the former on
that account.

4°2

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

and commanded him to return ; but he pretended not to hear,
and proceeded.

When Meer Caufim heard what had pafied, from the gover-
nor, he exprefled his fears that the navob's having been in-
formed of his plan, without being obliged to its execution,
would prove hazardous to his fafety. Mr. Vanfittart exprelied
uncertainty how to adl; upon which Meer Caulim was ftill

more alarmed, faying, “ If you are at a lofs, what muft I be,

“ who am without any other fupport ?” It being now dinner
time, the governor retired to table, and Meer Caufim to a
feparate apartment. Here he confulted with Ali Ibrahim Khan,
who advifed him to wait patiently for another converfation with
the governor, and to fee how he would adt: that if he gave
up the plan, he could retire with his permiflion into a Beer-
boom and join the emperor, who would gladly receive him.
Meer Caufim refolved on this ftep, as a laft refource to fecure
himfelf from the jealouly of the navob, fhould the Englilh give

up their defign, and with much policy, for he would have been

joined by many perfons of rank, and the troops, for whofe
arrears he had flood fecurity, were attached to him; which
would have enabled him to have aflumed independance. Din-
ner being concluded, Mr. Vanfittart renewed the converfation,
and it was at length determined, that Meer Jaffier fhould be
forced to accede to his meafures ; for which purpofe he would
accompany Meer Caufim to the palace the next morning.

In the morning, Mr. Vanfittart, attended by the Englifh de-
tachment, went to the palace, and was met by Meer Caufim
and his friends. Repeated aflurances were fent to the navob,
that no injury was intended to his perfon or dignity. Mr.
Vanfittart endeavoured to perfuade him that the appointment of

a deputy

8 A woody diftrift in Bengal,

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

4®3

a deputy in fo near a relation, would reinffate his affairs from
the confufion in which they were involved by the mifmanage-
ment and rapacity of his prefent favourites, but in vain. Some
time palTed in fending and receiving meffages, when the Eng-
lifh, finding that the navob would not confent to their requefl,
defired Meer Caufim to aflume the mufnud in his own name,
which he did without oppofition ; the friends of Meer Jaffier,
who remained in the haram, having moftly deferted him, through
fear of the Englifh. Meer Jaffier had the offer of refiding at
the capital, or Calcutta. He chofe the latter, and embarked in
boats with his family, carrying with him unmoleffed the treafures
in the haram, the jewels and valuable effe&s, which had accumu-
lated to an ineffimable amount, during the governments of the
four laft navobs of Bengal. At Calcutta he built a palace for
his refidence, and had a monthly allowance adequate to his
dignity.

A. H. 1174;
A. D. 1760,

D d d 2

MEER

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

4°4

MEER CAUSIM KHAN.

Meer Caufim Khan, on his acceffion to the mufnud, finding
the treafury low, was diftreffed to pay off the arrears due to the
troops, for which he had given fecurity, and the debts of the
Englifh ; on which account he haftened to reform the revenues
of the feveral diftriCts. He gave Burdwan in mortgage to the
Englifh, and pledged to them fome of his jewels. After muf-
tering the army, and detecting the impofitions of feveral officers,
he fatisfied the troops, by paying them partly in money, and
partly by orders on the collections. He fettled the difburfements
of his houfehold, fo as not to exceed his revenue, and reformed
feveral ufelefs departments, hitherto kept up for ffiew. He oblig-
ed Cheeny Laal and Munny Laal to refund confiderable fums,
which they had embezzled under the late government. Meer
Caufim, being well acquainted with the circumftances of the re-
lations and dependants of the three late navobs, now exacted
money from all whom he knew to be rich, and even obliged
feveral courtezans to refund fums and valuable effects which they
had received from Meer Jaffier and his fon Meeraun; nor did
he fpare the women and eunuchs of Mahabut Jung, who had
retired from the court and its affairs. In fhort, the advice of
Saadee the poet, “ Why colle&eft thou not from every fubjeCt
«< a grain of filver, that thou mayefi: form q. treafure?” He had
attentively liftened to, and now ftriCtly followed. Raja Suknut Sing,
who had held great offices under Mahabut Jung, voluntarily de-
livered

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

405

livered up all his wealth to Meer Caufim, who gave him up a
part, and ever treated him with particular regard and attention, al-
lowing him to fit clofe to his Mufnud in public. Having thus col-
lected a great treafure, he fatisfied the army, and dhbanded fuch
of the troops as he could not truft, levying others in their room ;
after which he prepared to reduce the power of the refractory
zemindars. In faCt, this defcription of men are in general faith-
lefs, and ready upon the fmalleft commotion to forget the in-
dulgence of their governors ; on which account former emperors
never relied upon them, but always managed the pergunnahs by
their own officers. On this account, in their days, the provinces
were flourifhing, and men of all ranks fatisfied and fecurej but
fince the zemindars have been left uncontrouled in the govern-
ment of their diftriCts, confufion has prevailed, and the country
is decaying. Meer Caufim having marched from Moorffiudabad
againft Affud Zummaun Khan, raja of Beerboom, who had re-
fufed to pay an additional demand of revenue, eafily defeated
him with the affiffance of the Englifh.

It is now neceffary, for the fake of regularity, that I fhould
return to the affairs of Patna and the occurrences in that province,
fince the death of Meeraun.

At the conclufion of the rains, major Carnac with the En-
glifh army, accompanied by Ramnarain, Raujeboollub, and the
forces of Meeraun, marched to Gyah Maunpore againft the em-
peror and Kaumgar Khan, who were defeated, and Mr. Law
was taken prifoner. Major Carnac after the victory fent Raja
Shittabroy with propofals of peace, and an offer to vifit the em-
peror, who at firft declined them, by advice of Kaumgar Khan,
but on the remonftrances of my father, he fent again for the
raja, and confented to an interview with the Englifh. Upon
this, Kaumgar Khan retired to his own country. Shaw Aulum

having

4c6

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

having moved nearer the Englifh camp, appointed the next day
to receive the major; who came agreeably to his promife, and
after the cuftomary ceremonies, conduced his majelty to Gyah,
from whence, in a few days, he attended the imperial ftandard
to Patna.

Meer Caufim, upon intelligence of this event, haftened from
Beerboom to Patna, much alarmed at the connection of the Eng-
lifh with the emperor, efpecially as major Carnac was of Mr.
Amyatt’s party, which had oppofed Mr. Vanfittart in his accef-
fion to the foubahdary. He refuled to vifit his Majefty in his

camp, either from fear of treachery, or pride, but, after much

negotiation, confented to pay his refpeCts to him at the Englifh
factory ; which was accordingly adorned for the occafion, and a
throne placed upon the dining tables, which were covered with

a rich mufnud. Shaw Aulnm came to the faCtory on the day

appointed, and Meer Caufim being introduced, made the cuftom-
ary offerings, and was prefented with a khelaut and other marks
of favour, when he agreed to pay the emperor 1 twenty four
lacs of rupees annually from the revenues of the three provinces.
After the interview, the emperor took up his refidence in the
citadel, and the navob returned to his own camp; but being
jealous of my father’s attendance on his majefty, he prevailed
on the Englifh to procure the royal order for his return to his
jaghire, which they did, though againft their inclinations, to
quiet his fufpicions.

Shaw Aulum, after fome ftay at Patna, having received in-
vitations from his vizier Shujah ad Dowlah and other chiefs,
marched from that city to join him, greatly to the fatisfaCtion
of the navob, who feared that the attachment of the Englifh to
himfelf might be weakened by their regard for the royal caufe.

Meer

Two hundred and forty thoufand pounds.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

Meer Caufim had long wifhed to demand of Ramnarain an
account of the difburfements and receipts of his government, which
had never been given in, fince the death of Serauje ad Dow-
lah ; and the navob, who was intimately acquainted with bufi-
nefs, well knew that the deputy had converted great fums to
his own ufe. The protection afforded Ramnarain by the Englifh,
alone prevented him from proceeding to extremities ; and the
raja, depending upon their fupport, payed no attention to the
juft demands of the navob. Mr. Macguire, the chief of Patna,
was of Mr. Vanfittart’s party, and fupported Meer Caulim ; but
major Carnac and Mr. Hay oppofed his demands upon the raja.
In this Rate of affairs, the navob, knowing my intimacy with
Mr. Amyatt, fent me to Calcutta, that I might endeavour to
make that gentleman his friend, and to confent to Ramnarain s
being left at his difcretion. Soon after this, colonel Coote
was appointed to the army at Patna, and Ramnarain, thinking
it his intereft to excite jealoufies in the minds of the Englifh
againft the navob, bribed the colonel’s fpies to convey him falfe
intelligence, which he too eagerly believed. Thefe men carried
their impofitions fo far, as to affure the colonel that Meer Cau-
fim had fixed a day for attacking him by furprize ; upon which
the colonel, early on the morning mentioned, went with fome
armed men to the navob’s camp j but finding no figns of pre-
paration, and the navob afleep, he was vexed at his credulity,
and returned without feeing Meer Caufim; to whom he excufed
himfelf by a meffage, that he had come with intention to vifit him,
but hearing he was afleep, would not difturh his repofe. The
navob complained to the council of this behaviour, which he
attributed to its juft caufe, the intrigues of P^amnarain, of which
they were now convinced. Colonel Coote was recalled, and orders
fent to the gentlemen at Patna, that they fhould not interfere
between the navob and his deputy.

407

This

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

This event rendering my farther ftay at Calcutta needlefs,
I returned to Patna; and indeed it was in vain that I endeavour-
ed to draw Mr. Amyatt over to friendship for the navob. He
one day faid to me, “ You well know, that I have no regard
“ for Ramnarain, but, on the contrary, diflike him; yet, as I
“ have from the beginning taken an oppofite party to the go-
t( vernor, and our difputes are referred to England, I cannot
“ befriend Meer Caufim without contradicting my own afler-
“ tions. If a decifion Shall arrive in favour of the governor’s
“ party, he will not feek my help; but if my opinions are ap-
“ proved, and the government committed to my charge, Should
<c the navob offer me his friendfhip, I fhall have no objection
“ to return it.” Upon this, I wrote freely to Meer Caufini
the determinations of Mr. Amyatt and his friends.

The navob, upon permiflion from the council, demanded
Ramnarain to give in his accounts, which he did. In them the
raja had put down large fums paid to jaghiredars ; but the
navob required the receipts of the perfons faid to have receiv-
ed them, as vouchers for the payment; alfo mufter rolls of the
troops, and the books of the feveral payoffices of each corps,
as proof of the exaCtnefs of the difburfements ; for which pur-
pofe he ordered the fervants of the raja in each department to
attend with their papers. Ramnarain, confcious of his mif-
management and embezzlements of the collections, was alarm-
ed, and at a lofs how to aCt, being no longer fupported in his
contumacy by the Englifh. Some of his friends advifed him to
relift the navob by force ; but, as he was void of perfonal
courage, he faw no remedy but fubmiflion, having firfl pre-
vailed on foxme of the heads of offices to fly with their ac-
counts, in hopes by that means to confute the navob’s auditors,
and cover his own defalcation. Meer Caufim, upon this, put
a guard over his houf'e, to prevent his efcape, and having de-
tected

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

409

tedted embezzlements of large fums from the revenues, the jag-
hires, and pay of the troops, confifcated his effedts. About
“feven lacs of rupees in money and goods were found in his
houfe, and nearly the fame fum was recovered from perfons
to whom it had been entrusted by himfelf and his women.
The effects of Gongabifhen, his treafurer, and Munfaram his
banker, were alfo feized, under pretence of having concealed his
treafures. A large fum was alfo collected from Moorlydher and
the cutwal of the city, who had been partners in guilt with
the raja; nor was a fmgle perfon of his dependants exempt
from lines or confifcation ; fo that the navob acquired a great
treafure.

Meer Caulim having fettled thefe affairs to his fatisfadtion,
entered the fort of Patna with much pomp, as a proof to the
inhabitants of his poffefling full authority in his government,
which in fadt he did not, till the fubmiffion of Ramnarain.
He kept him in confinement in the city, but fent Moorlydher
prifoner to Dacca, and Ameed Roy, the royroyan, with feveral
other perfons, to Moorlhudabad. Having obtained from the
emperor the dewanny of the province, the government of Rhotas
Ghur, and the jaghires of b Eatimaud ad Dowlah, which had
been under the diredtion of Raja Shittabroy, he demanded of
him an account of his condudt ; but he refufed to fubmit, and
with fome faithful followers refolved to defend his houfe againft
the troops of the navob ; but the Englifh, who owed great
obligations to Shittabroy for his affiftance in the battle with
Khadim Houffein Khan, prevailed with Meer Caufim to fub-
mit his claims upon him to the decifion of the council, which
he did, depending on the governor’s fupport of his caufe. Shit-
tabroy accordingly accompanied major Carnac to Calcutta ; but
Vox. II. E e e as

3 Seventy thoufand pounds.

b Vizier to Mahummud Shaw#

4io

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

as, on enquiry, no fault could be proved upon him, the gover-
nor and council granted him an efcort to conduCt him in fafety
out of the provinces fubjeCt to Meer Caufim, into the territo-
ries of the navob of Oude, where he chofe to retire.

Meer Caufim, fince his acceflion, had paid great attention
to the forming his army, which he greatly ftrengthened by the
addition of a regular artillery and feveral battalions of fepoys,
clothed and difciplined like the Englifh ■, alfo a body of regu-
lar cavalry. Thefe were commanded by Gregory, an Armenian,
who was diftinguifhed by the title of Goorgeen Khan, and was
the chief confidant and advifer of the navob. With this force
he refolved to reduce the power of the Bahar zemindars, who
had hitherto been too independant on government. He com-
manded them all to attend his perfon. Kaumgar Khan, dread-
ing punifhment for his fupport of the emperor, fheltered him-
felf in the mountainous parts of his country, and refufed to. obey
the fummons. Boonniaud Sjng and Futteh Sing of Teekaury,
relying on their fidelity during the laft invafion of Shaw Aulum
for protection, came in, but were immediately ordered into
confinement. Pulwaun Sing and other zemindars of Bhojepore
refufed fubmifiion j upon which the navob prepared to march
in perfon againft them, and detached a confiderable force under
his nephew Abou Ali Khan to reduce Kaumgar Khan.

Upon the approach of the navob, the zemindars of Bhoje-
pore evacuated their diftriCts, and fled acrofs the Ganges into
the dominions of Shujah ad Dowlahj and Meer Caufim, hav-
ing appointed confidential officers for the protection of the coun-
try, encamped for fome time at Saflaram, after which he re-
turned to Patna, and from thence to Monghyr, which fortrefs
he had ordered to be repaired, intending to make it his prin-
cipal refidence. During his flay at Saflaram, feveral perfons

were

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

were put to death, and others confined on fufpicion of trea-
chery, which occafioned the Englifh to remonftrate upon his
cruelty ; but as, by the articles of the treaty with him, they
could not interfere in the government of the provinces, he little
regarded it, thinking it fufiicient to inform them, that he had
reafons for his condud:.

As it is incumbent on the recorder of events and actions
of men to fpeak the truth, I fhall now mention fome of his
good deeds, as I have already done the evil. Though Meer
Caufim from experience was very fufpicious of the fidelity of
the troops of Bengal, and the attachment of the great to their
patrons, and therefore, for flight offences, punifhed with confif-
cation and death j yet, in judicial proceedings, in criminal and.
civil affairs, and difputes between man and man, in regular
payment of his army and houfehold, in attention to the learn-
ed, in a liberal oeconomy and well-judged bounty to all, he
was the mirror of his age. Two days in the week, after the
ufage of former times, he held a court of jufticej at which
he revifed the fentences of the inferior courts, and examined
himfelf the plaintiff and defendant, with their witnefles; fo that
it was not poflible for any officer of juftice to change wrong
into right for a bribe. He alfo protected the owners of fmall
villages and farms from the rapacity of the great zemindars,
who in the time of Ramnarain in Bahar had ufurped the
rights of the poorer landholders. He coined the coftly deco-
rations of the a Imaum Bareh, prepared by Serauje ad Dowlah
at the expenfes of fome lacs, into money, and diffributed it. to
the poor and pilgrims to the holy fepulchres, with an additional
fum from his own purle. His negledt of the claims of his de-
pendants I never heard one perfon complain of 5 but it is cer-

E e e 2 tain

a The place in which the celebration of the annual mourning for the Imaums,
or family of Alee, is celebrated.

412

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

tain alfo, fuch was their dread of his feverity, that no one flept
with fecurity in his fervice. As Meer Caufim wifhed to be upon
an equality in rank with the vizier Shujah ad Dowlah, he
procured from the emperor the rank of eight thoufand and title
of a Ali Jah ; from which time he was never mentioned but
by that appellation.

Some difputes having arifen between the agents of the Eng-
lifh and the navob, concerning duties on merchandize demand-
ed by the latter, Mr. Vanfittart paid a viiit to Meer Caufim
on his way to Patna, with a view to adjuft them by amicable
difcuffion, and fettle a plan for future collection, that might be
agreeable to both parties. The navob came to meet him about
fix miles from Monghyr, where he entertained him for fome
days with great fplendour, and a review of his troops difciplin-
ed in the European manner. The governor took this occafion
to give him fome friendly advice. He obferved, that he cer-
tainly had a fine army, but for his fake hoped it never would
be oppofed to an English one, againft which it could not ftand ;
that at prefent the honour and welfare of Hindooftan refted with
him, and nothing but his breaking with the Engliffi could dif-
turb them. He advifed him to combat his countrymen only with
the pen, when he would be fure of victory, and to follow the
rules which he had laid down for Europeans and natives in
their conduCt to each other.

At this interview Meer Caufim complained, that much mer-
chandize pafled the cuftom houfes free of duty, under the name
of Engliffi trade, belonging to other perfons, by which his re-
venues fuffered great lofs ; therefore he hoped that all goods,
but thofe of the company, ffiould be made liable to the cuf-
tomary duties. The governor obferved, that it would be diffi-
cult

3 Exalted in dignity.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

4»3

cult to annul a privilege which had been for fome time ufual,
but that he would, on his return to Calcutta, endeavour to
redtify the abufej and advifed him, till he ffiould hear from
him on the fubjedt, to permit matters to remain as they were.
Meer Caufim, prefuming on this promife, refolved to colledt the
cuftoms, and wrote to his officers, that as he expedted ffiortly
permiffion for the purpofe, they ffiould contrive to flop by one
pretence or other, all goods till its arrival. The officers, eager
to obey, but not poffeffing fufficient caution, began immediately
to enforce their orders and demand duties with great rigour ;
upon which the Engliffi chiefs of Patna, Dacca, and other places,
whofe agents they had ill treated, took the officers of the cuf-
toms prifoners, and complained to their government, from whom
they had yet received no intimation of the abolition of the pri-
vilege of trade, which had not yet been agitated in council.

The navob was at this time on his return from an unfuc-
cefsful expedition againft Neipal, a country to the north eaft of
Bengal, faid to abound in gold, which he was eager to poffefs.
The intelligence of the boldnefs of the Engliffi, made him re-
turn to Monghyr with greater expedition. He paffed Patna with-
out vffiting, as ufual, the Engliffi chief, and iffued orders for
feizing their native agents in the feveral diftridts, and fending
them to his court. At the fame time, he difpatched an envoy
to the emperor and Shujah ad Dowlah to fecure their affiftance,
in cafe he ffiould find it advifeable to break with the Engliffi.

By this precipitate condudt of the navob, Mr. Vanfittart was
prevented from procuring the aflent of his council to the plan
he had intended, and obliged, by a majority of votes, to de-
mand fatisfadtion for the confinement of the agents, and an ex-
emption from duties in future. The navob upon this ifiued
orders to excufe the merchandize belonging to perfons of every

defcription

•a

I . . , ' .

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

defcription from duty, declaring to the council, that as the richer
traders palled their goods under the Englifh name to evade the
cuftoms,, he muft, to avoid the oppreffton of the poor, wholly
annihilate the collection. With regard to the releafe of the
agents, he wrote, that when his fhould be liberated from Cal-
cutta, and arrive at Monghyr, he would fet theirs free.

This determination offended the prevailing party in council ;
who faid it was intended to affront them, by putting them on
a footing with common merchants; that if he meant to live in
amity with the Englifh, he mull excufe their trade, as formerly,
and collect from others; to attain which objects, they would
fend two of their body to the navob as ambafladors. Mr. Van-
fittart, being in a minority, was obliged to execute the refolu-
tion of council, and Meffieurs Amyatt and Hay were fent to
Monghyr; but he wrote privately to Meer Caufim, entreating
him for his own fake to comply for the prefent with their de-
mands, however difagreeable it might be to him, as a little time
would bring orders from Europe, that would fatisfy his utmofl
wifhes ; but if by his rafhnefs he fhould provoke a war, it
would be out of his power to heal the breach. The navob
(hewed this letter to Goorgeen Khan, and afked his advice how
to adt, thinking, that as he had lived among the Englifh and
had a a brother fettled at Calcutta, he was well informed of their
genius and cufloms. This man, inconfiderate, and conceited of
his own abilities, recommended a difregard to the governor’s ad-
vice, faying, that the prefent was a ftruggle for fuperiority be-
tween the navob and the Englifh, and if he gave up, he would
daily become more degraded, but that if he now adted with
refolution, they would be obliged to fubmit. Meer Caufim was
overcome by his argument, and determined to follow his advice.
Apprehending that the banker Juggutt Seet, in cafe of a war,

might

3 Petrufe, an eminent Armenian merchant.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

415

might affift the English, as he had before done in the de por-
tion of Serauje ad Dowlah and on his own acceflion to the
mufnud, he fent for him and his brother to Monghyr, where
he commanded them to fettle, and placed fpies to obferve their
conduct.

Thefe two perfons were grandfons to Juggutt Seet Futteh
Chund, the principal merchant and banker of Hindooftan, and
inherited his immenfe wealth. They could pay a bill of ex-
change at fight for a a corore of rupees. When, during the firffc
invafion of the Mharattas in the time of Mahabut Jung, their
warehoufes were plundered of two corores, the lofs was confi-
dered by them as trifling. Even at this time, when, fince the
power of the Englilh their bufinefs has decreafed, every one of
their defcendants is in a ftate of opulence and high credit. b

When Meer Caufim heard of the ambafladors’ arrival at Moor-
fhudabad, he fent Abdoolla Suffevee and me to meet him ; ob-
ferving, that as we were intimate acquaintance of Mr. Amyatt’s,
he would fpeak before us without referve, fo as to enable us to
inform him of the true objedl of the million. He fent with us
twenty runners, a writer, and two head fpies, who were to at-
tend us, difguifed as fervants, whenever we Ihould vifit the
Englilh gentlemen, or they us, with orders to communicate daily
to the writer what at fuch times they might hear or fee the
particulars of which were to be conveyed to the nearefl: poll,
and forwarded by exprefs for ‘ his information. Under fuch cir-
cumftances we proceeded, and met Mr. Amyatt at Gunga Per-

fand j

a A million fterling.

b In the native adminiftrations, this lioufe was fecurity for the renters of re-
venues and thus the cohesions in general palled through their hands. Of late
years, the Seets have leflened their concerns. Their houfe was plundered of a
vaft fum by Meer Caufim, when he began his war with the Englilh., but is
yet very wealthy and refpe&able.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

laud ; but during our embrace at the firft interview, contrived
to hint to him that we were accompanied by fpies, which pre-
vented him from talking too freely. We had feveral ccnverfa-
tions in our way to Monghyr, all of which were conveyed to
the navob, by ourfelves and the fpies ; but one day, to obviate
his fufpicions of our referve, I faid to Mr. Amyatt, “ What
“ are the true objedls of your embafly ? we are well withers
“ to both parties, and if you would communicate your fentiments
“ freely, we will declare what we think for the benefit of both.”
Mr. Amyatt, with a loud voice, replied, “ You, natives, fpeak
“ before us what you think will pleafe us, and in prefence of
“ the navob, what will pleafe him, fo that neither can learn
“ the truth; therefore I am come as ambaflador, that he may
“ know our real fentiments and we his, without intervention,
“ and I have no occafion for your confidence or advice.” We
wrote the above to the navob, as did the fpies alfo ; and we
often repeated our requeft to the English gentlemen, that he
might not fufpedt us to be negledtful of his commands. At
length, on our arrival at Bhaugulpore, we received an order, fet-
ing forth, that as the Englifh gentlemen would not open their
minds to us, our flay with them was unneceflary. Upon this
we took leave, and haflened before them to Monghyr. When
we arrived, the navob afked us feveral queflions, and then dif-
miffed us ; but in a few hours after fent for me again. When
I reached the palace, Goorgeen Khan was fitting with him, to
whom the navob was relating what I had faid. I fat down at
a diflance with Ali Ibrahim Khan. At length the navob called
me to him, defiring that I would repeat what I had heard from
the Englifh, to Goorgeen Khan. I did fo ; and the navob fhew-
ing figns of anger and unbelief, Goorgeen Khan obferved, that
if the bread of an Englifhman was to be cut open with a dag-
ger, it would be impoffible to difcover the fentiments of his
heart : then turning to me, he continued his queflions. I had

not

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

417

not faid much, when he impatiently exclaimed, “ Why are you
“ fo tedious ? I will alk you only your opinion on four points.
« What are the caufes of Mr. Amyatt’s coming? Does he in-
“ tend treachery to the navob? Is he come as a fpy, to learn
“ the date of the fort and army? Is he come with friendly or
“ inimical defigns ?” I was much diftrefled, but replied, “ I am
“ aftonilhed at your queftions, after declaring that it is impoffi-
« ble to difcover the fentiments of an Englifhman, even if you
cut his bread: open with a dagger. How fhould I learn Mr.
“ Amyatt’s thoughts ? As for treachery, he is without troops,
“ and therefore has more caufe to apprehend it, than form de-
“ figns of praftifing it on others. With refpedt to being a fpy,
“ every one who enters the fort mud: make obfervations, fo
“ that he has no caufe to come himfelf for information. As
<e to his intentions, they are' thefe, to learn the fentiments of
“ the navob from himfelf to the Englifh. If they are friendly,
“ he will be fo too; but if not, a rupture will certainly enfue
“ between his government and ours.” The navob approved what
I had faid, and difmifled me ; but Goorgeen Khan was much
difpleafed.

Three days after the above converfation Mr. Amyatt arrived
at Monghyr, and was vifited by the navob. The next day Mr.
Amyatt returned the vifit, accompanied by Mr. Hay, captain
Johnfon, and Mr. Guidon, an amiable young man, who fpoke
the Perdc duently, and two or three other gentlemen. Thofe
were meerly vifits of ceremony ; feveral others paffed, in which
there were warm arguments and upbraidings on the part of the
navob and the ambadadors. At one, Mr. Amyatt being treated
difrefpedtfully by the attendants at the palace gate, complained
of the infult ; which the navob attributed to the ignorance of
his fervants : but Mr. Amyatt knew they dared not adt info-
Vol. II. F f f lently

4iS

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

lently without the pleafure of their mafler, and bore the affront
in his mind, though, from politenefs he accepted the excufes.

Another day, Mr. Gulflon and captain Johnfon, agreeably to
the cuflom of the Englifh, taking a ride into the country, were
flopped by fome horfemen and a peons, who threatened to fire
upon them if they proceeded. They complained to the navob,
who pleaded ignorance of the mifbehaviour of his people. Such
occurrences as thefe threw daily impediments in the way of
friendfhip. The navob confulted with Ali Ibrahim Khan and
other principal fervants, who advifed amity and forbearance to
the Englifh j which he would often determine upon, but as often
altered his opinion, from the incendiary councils of Goorgeen
Khan. At length, Ali Ibrahim Khan freely told him, “ That
“ if he chofe not to follow his advice, he wifhed to be excufed
“ from his councils ; but that whether he meant war or peace
“ with the Englifh, it was unbecoming his own dignity and the
“ ufage of flates, to affront their ambaffadors, whom he ought
“ rather to diflinguifh more kindly than ever.” Meer Caufim
was alarmed, and altered his behaviour ; upon which Goorgeen
Khan left off attending the durbar.

At this time, fome Englifh boats laden with goods and five
hundred mufquets on the way to Patna, were flopped by Goor-
geen Khan ; upon which Mr. Amyatt remonflrated to the navob,
but in vain. Ali Ibrahim Khan reprefented, that the navob was
wrong in reflraining them, for, if the Englifh wifhed for war,
the addition of five hundred mufquets was of little confequence.
Upon this the navob afked, if he would declare this opinion
before Goorgeen Khan. He anfwered. Certainly. Meer Caufim
then fent him to him, with Raja Nobut Roy, to afk his opi-
nion ; but the Armenian infolently exclaimed, “ I am a foldier,

“ and

* Foot foldierso

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

4J9

**■ and have no buiinefs to advife ; let the navob confult with
“ his miniflers, and call for me only in the day of battle.”

Raja Nobut Roy being intimidated, was filent; but Ali Ibrahim
Khan replied, “ The navob afks the advice of his general, and
“ it is plain he has ever added from it. Why then do you not
“ give your opinion what you think will be for his interefl.”
Goorgeen Khan, placing his hands expanded together, faid, “ The
“ navob and the Englifh are like thefe, equal.” Then, fold-
ing the fingers of one hand, he exclaimed, “ If the navob re-
“ folutely oppofes Mr. Amyatt, he will be like this hand, over
“ the other ; but if he fubmits to his demand, the contrary,

<( crufhed and overpowered. He is the mailer, let him add as
“ he chufes.” Ali Ibrahim Khan communicated this to the
navob without referve. All thoughts of conciliation were laid
afide, and he prepared for war. Mr. Amyatt, feeing his flay
was ufelefs, demanded his difmiffion ; which at firfl was refufed,
but, after much argument, the navob permitted him and the
other gentlemen to depart, keeping Mr. Hay as an hoflage for
his agents in confinement at Calcutta, till they fhould be difcharged.

Mr. Amyatt on his departure from Monghyr wrote to Mr.

Ellis, the chief of Patna, to be upon his guard, as the difagree-
ment with the navob, muff fhortly break out into an open rup-
ture. Mr. Ellis, who regarded a declaration of war as certain
when Mr. Amyatt fhould reach Calcutta, having allowed as many
days as he thought would carry him out of danger from the
navob’s troops, refolved to poffefs himfelf of the city of Patna
by furprize. Accordingly, near day break in the morning of
Friday, the twelfth of Zeekaud, 1176, captain Carflairs, with a d ^
detachment of Europeans and fepoys, fcaled the walls with little
oppofition, the guards being moftly off their polls, not fufpeil-
ing an attack. He then formed his troops into two divifions,
and marched firing towards the citadel, each diviiion by a fe-

F f f 2 parate

420

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

parate ftreet. Meer Mhadee Khan, the foubahdar, being inform-
ed of the attack, collected as many of his garrifon as he could,
and oppofed the enemy ; but, after a fhort ftruggle, fled by way
of the eaftern gate, with his followers, out of the city towards
Monghyr. An officer named Mahummud Ameen Khan, retired
into the palace of Chehul Settoon, refolved to defend it ; and
Laal Sing, the commander of the garrifon in the citadel, fhut
the gates, and fired from the walls. Except thefe two places,
the whole city was now in the pofleflion of the Engliffi, whofe
troops, contrary to their ufual cuftom, feparated and began to
plunder the houfes of the inhabitants. Meer Mhadee Khan on
his arrival at Futwah, about fix miles from the city, met a de-
tachment which had been fent to reinforce him from Mong-
hyr, and hearing alfo of the refiftance in the palace and citadel,
he refolved to attempt recovering the city from the Englifh,
and marched along the banks of the Ganges towards the eaftern
gate. The Englifh on his approach drew up under the walls,
with two pieces of cannon in their front, upon the bridge over
the ditch ; but were obliged to relinquifh their poll; by a fevere
difcharge of rockets ; and having fpiked the cannon, they re-
tired towards their fadtory, and were purfued by the enemy.
The remainder of the Englifh in the city, being alarmed, fol-
lowed the example of their companions, and having gained the
fadtory, fhut the gates. This being furrounded by the enemy,
about midnight they retreated to their cantonments at Baukipore,
and from thence in boats up the river to Chopperah, and to-
wards the frontiers of Shujah ad Dowlah ; but being attacked
by the fojedaur of Sirkaur Saran, were obliged to lay down
their arms, aud furrender themfelves prifoners, when they were
fent in confinement to Monghyr*

The navob Meer Caufim, upon intelligence of this= fuccefs
©f his arms, iflued immediate orders to the officers of the feveral

diftridts

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

421

diftridts to daughter every Englifhman in them. Mr. Amyatt,,
unfortunately for him, was at Moorfhudabad at this time. It
was in vain that he delired to be fent prifoner to the navob.
A Jemmautdaur, named Shawfowaur Beg, put him to death with
his companions, and fent their heads to Meer Caufim. The
English factory at Caufimbazar was plundered the fame day.

When intelligence of this event reached Calcutta, Mr. Van-
fittart wrote to Syed Mahummud Khan, governor of Moorlhud-
abad, threatening him for his cruelty ; obferving that the mur-
der of ambafiadors was againft the law of nations, for which
he fhould fuffer, if it had been done without the orders of the
navob his mafter ; but if Meer Caufim had commanded it, he
fhould fee what the Almighty had determined. A council was
held, but Mr. Vanfittart being much indifpofed, and unable to
attend, he deputed Mr. Haftings to deliver his fentiments to the
members; but fome difpute ariling in the violence of debate
between Mr. Batfon and Mr. Haftings, the governor hearing of
it, was alarmed for their fafety, and, ill as he was, ordered him-
felf to be carried to the council. Upon his deftring to know
the pleafure of the members, the majority declared for war with
Meer Caufim, and the reftoration of Meer Jaftier to the muf-
nud ; which being determined upon, he was proclaimed at Cal-
cutta, and preparations made for his march againft the enemy.

Meer Caufim Khan, .on the probability of a rupture with
the Englifh, had ordered Mahummud Tukkee Khan, foje-
daur of Beerboom, to march with his troops in order to oppofe
the palfage of an enemy over the a Bhaugruttee ; and Syed Ma-
hummud Khan, governor of Moorlhudabad, was directed to afilfi:
him with what troops he could fpare from the defence of the
city. A reinforcement was alfo fent from Monghyr; but on its

arrival

.. D. 1763.

* The river near Moorfaudabad,

HISTORY OF BENGAL*

arrival on the banks of the river, the chiefs in command re-
fufed to crofs, though Mahummud Tukkee reprefented the ne-
ceflity of their aCting in conjunction.

At this time a fmall detachment of Englifh fepoys was on
its way to join the army at Calcutta. Hybut Oollah Khan,
the commander of the Monghyr troops, refolved to intercept it ;
but the Englifh defended themfelves in a village during a whole
day againft his attacks and being joined by a battalion from
Burdwan during the night, they marched out in the morning
to give him battle, in which they were fuccefsful, and purfued
their route. The next day Mahummud Tukkee Khan attacked
them. Succefs was for fome time doubtful. He had two horfes
killed under him, and had mounted a third, when a ball lodg-
ing in his forehead, he expired, and his followers fled, yielding
up the vidlory to the Englifh. In this engagement, Hybut Oollah
and the other chiefs from Monghyr hood at a diftance, out of
danger, and upon the defeat, fled towards the city. The Eng-
lifh committed their wounded enemies to the care of their phy-
flcians, and remained two or three days on the field of battle,
when they proceeded. Syed Mahummud Khan, upon intelligence
of the defeat, without taking any meafures for the defence of
Moorfhudabad, or even fecuring the effeCts of Meer Caufim, fled
from the city; upon which Mahummud Eeeruch Khan, the
father in law of Serauje ad Dowlah, afluming the command in
the name of Meer Jaffier, went to meet him. In a few days
Meer Jaffier with the Englifh army arrived at the capital, and
proclaimed fecurity to the inhabitants. After a fhort flay, he
proceeded towards Monghyr, to engage the army of Meer Cau-
fim, which was advancing from that fortrefs.

Meer Caufim Khan, upon intelligence of the defeat and
death of Mahummud Tukkee Khan, was much alarmed. He

ordered

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

ordered the remnant of the beaten army to take pod at Sootee,
and reinforced them with fix thoufand horfe under Affud Qol-
lah Khan, fojedaur of Terhoot, the rocket men of Meer Nafir,
and feven or eight battalions of fepoys, with fixteen pieces of
cannon, commanded by Maulkar an Armenian, and Sumroo a
German, in order to oppofe the advance of the enemy. Sheer
Ali Khan, fojedaur of Poorneah, with the troops of that diftrict,
alfo joined them.

On Tuefday, the feventh of Mohirrim, 1177, the Englifn
army reached Sootee, and an engagement took place, which
ended in the fuccefs of the enemies of Meer Cauiim, though
they did not exceed more than three thoufand men, Europeans
and fepoys. The defeated army fled without halting till they
reached the brook of Oodwah, on the banks of which Meer
Caufim had thrown up ftrong entrenchments. Meer Caufim
had, upon the former defeat, fent his women and treafures for
fecurity to the fort of Rhotas, and he now prepared to march
in perfon to Oodwah from Monghyr. As he was naturally prone
to fhed blood, and this difpofition was encreafed by the infti-
gation of Goorgeen Khan, in this feafon of alarm, he refolved
on the daughter of feveral perfons, whom he had imprifoned
on fufpicion of their fidelity. The principal of thefe were.
Raja Ramnarain, Raja Raujeboolub, Meer aim’s dewan, the Roy-
royan, Ameed Ram, with his fon. Raja Futteh Sing of Tee-
kaury, and feveral other principal zemindars. All thefe he
put to death ; and it is faid, the firft was drowned with a bag
of fand tied round his neck. The Englifh captives were con-
fined more ftrictly, and Goorgeen Khan advifed their death; but
the navob had a private reafon in his own bread: for as yet
preferving their lives. His army, according to the wretched
cultom of Hindooftan in a feafon of diftrefs, began to be dis-
orderly ; but he kept them from mutiny by gentlenefs, and

marched,

424

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

marched as far as the Nullah of Chinnanuggur, where he halt-
ed, and detached feveral bodies to join the troops at Oodwah.
He would have fent Goorgeen Khan to command, but the Ar-
menian evaded his wifhes, by pretending that he had vowed to
remain for the defence of his perfon, from which he could not

At this time, Meerza Nujeef Khan, who had fled from the
perfecution of his relation Shujah ad Dowlah the vizier, came
to offer his fervices, with his followers ; which Meer Caufim
gladly accepted, and fent him to join the troops at Oodwah.
Thefe, confiding in the ftrength of their fituation, were immerfed
in doth and pleafure, felf-fecure from the attack of an enemy,
but too cowardly to offer battle. Meerza Nujeef Khan ihortly
after his arrival at the camp, willing to deferve the favour of
Meer Caufim, having fele&ed a band in whom he could con-
fide, iffued one night from the entrenchments, and fording a
piece of water in the rear of the Englilh camp, where Meer
Jaffier’s tents were pitched, attacked the enemy about daybreak.
Meer Jaffier fled to his boats ; but his allies coming Ipeedily
to his afliflance, repulfed Nujeef Khan ; who, however, fre-
quently alarmed them by fimilar attacks. Thefe occafioned the
Englifh to endeavour to explore the way by which he came
upon them, but for fome days in vain.

At length, a deferter from their camp, who had embraced
the navob Meer Caufim’s fervice, of which he had grown weary,
and wiihed to return to his countrymen, having obferved the
route of Nujeef Khan, one night purfued it, and fording the
lake, placed flakes to mark the paffage. Reaching the camp
of the Englifh, he communicated the difcovery he had made,
and offered himfelf as guide to furprize the enemy, on condi-
tion that he fhould be pardoned his defertion, which was readily

granted.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

granted. Scaling ladders being prepared, on the night fixed for A H 1177.
the attack, the grenadiers of the army, putting their cartouch A. D. 1763.
boxes on their heads, began to ford the lake. It was agreed,
that on their afcending the entrenchments a portfire fhould be
lighted, as a fignal to the camp, when an attack was alfo to
be made on a bridge over the brook of Oodwah. The grena-
diers, after a difficult march of near a mile up to the waift in
water, gained the fhore under the entrenchments. The guards,
depending on the improbability of an enemy’s croffing the lake,
were afleep ; and the Englifh, mounting the walls by their
ladders, entered the camp. At this time, a trumpeter awaking,
difcovered them, but was difpatched by a bayonet before he
could found an alarm. They lighted their portfire and rufhed
upon the lleeping guards. At the fame inflant, the Englifh
from the camp attacked the bridge, and made a heavy dif-
charge of cannon and howitzers. The grenadiers commenced
a dreadful firing within, with great daughter. The enemy were
too much confufed to refill them, and every one tried only to
effedt his efcape from between two fires, the Englifh troops
having now forced the bridge and entered on that fide. Mal-
kaur and Sumroo had fled with their battalions on the firft
alarm, and differed little lofs ; but numbers of the other troops
were killed by the fire of the Englifh, and many drowned in
croffing a brook in their flight. Affud Oollah Khan, deferted
by his attendants, was obliged to run fome diftance on foot be-
fore he could procure a horfe. Meerza Nujeef Khan with his
followers fled into the hills. A great plunder fell into the
hands of the vidtors, with little lofs on their fide.

The intelligence of this defeat plunged Meer Caufim into
defpair. He left his camp privately the night after, hadened to
Monghyr, and was followed by his army the next day in great
diforder. At Monghyr he remained a few days to fecure his
Vol. II. G g g effedts.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

effe&s, and revive the exhaufted fpirits of the troops. At this
time, Ali Ibrahim Khan advifed him to releafe the Englifh
prifoners, and permit them to join their friends, as a means of

foftening their refentment; but, at all events, if he did not

chufe to releafe the men, to fend the women in boats with

a meflage to major Adams. Meer Caufim advifed with Goor-
geen Khan, who refufed his aflent. Arab Ali Khan with two
battalions of fepoys, being left to garrifon Monghyr, the navob
moved towards Patna, carrying with him the Englifh captives,
who fulfered great hardfhips from the want of proper accom-
modations. When he approached the 3Rowah Nullah, he halt-
ed, intending to make a Brand ; but this refolution was laid
afide by the fudden death of Goorgeen Khan.

This man was univerfally hated by the troops for his feverity
and pride. He had introduced the Englifh difcipline, and wanted,
like them, to keep up the fame order and refpedt in time of
diftrefs as of good fortune, never confidering that they poflefs
qualities peculiar to themfelves, which enable them to maintain
fuch order over their fervants at all times. He had the pre-
fumption to flatter himfelf, that an Armenian, always ufed to
trade, could oblige Arangers to fubmit to a difcipline they had
never been accuflromed to.

To proceed : Meer Cauflm halted a few cofs from the
Rowah. Goorgeen Khan, according to cuftom, remained to
guard the rear of the army. He was fitting in a fmall tent,
when fome troopers came to demand their pay. He gave them
abufive language, which they returned ; and being enraged, he
called for his attendants to carry them to the guard ; but the
troopers, drawing their fabres, cut him down, and made their
efcape, Confufion prevailed in the camp, and Malkaur fired

fome

A rivulet in Bahar.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

fome Ihot at the murderers. The report of the cannon reached
the navob, who, thinking the Englilh had attacked Goorgeen
Khan, was fo alarmed, that he mounted his elephant and fled.
The troops followed his example, and during the whole night
were employed in croffing a bridge of boats thrown acrofs the
Rowah. Meer Cauflm now advanced haftily to Patna.

On his way, he put to death the two bankers, Juggutt Seet
and Raja Serroop Chund. On his arrival near the city, he
halted for fome days at the gardens of Jaffier Khan, and en-
trufted the defence of Patna to Mahummud Ameen Khan.
Upon hearing that the enemy had taken Monghyr, in a fit of
rage, he ordered Sumroo to put the Englifh prifoners to death;
who, notwithstanding his being of one of the feds of chriftians,
complied with the order. He proceeded during the night to
the houfe of Hajee Ahmud, brother to Mahabut Jung, where
they were confined, and difpatched them, his fepoys firing into
their apartments. It is faid, they made what refiftance they
could, by throwing bottles and ftones at their murderers. I '
have heard alfo, that a few days before, they had endeavoured
to bribe their guards to give them arms, with a defign of
effeding their efcape, or dying in the attempt. Dodor Ful-
larton was the only one who was fpared, he having been of
great Service in his profeflion to Several chiefs, and efleemed by
Meer Caufim.

The morning after this maflacre, of which I was ignorant,

I happened to go to the durbar, and after fome time was
riling to take leave, when the navob defired me to day, fay-
ing, that a friend of mine was coming; but immediately after
ordered me to depart, and he would fend for me when he came.

I repaired to my tent, and in a Ihort time was called by a
mefienger from Meer Caufim. Soon after my arrival, Dodor

G g g 2 Fullarton

427

428

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

Fullarton was brought to the durbar in an Indian drefs, and
according to the cuftom of our country, prefented fome rupees
as an offering, which the navob refufed, faying, “ This has not
“ been ufual between us •” and embraced him, commanding him
to fit near me, which he did. Meer Caufim, addrefling him,
faid, “ How can you juflify treachery to friends? Y ou received
“ the Englifh troops into your houfe, on pretence of indifpofi-
" tion, to furprize my people.” The Dodlor with much for-
titude replied, “ I fear not death; you have murdered my
“ companions, and may kill me; but I am innocent of the
“ charge of treachery, as you may find on enquiry from my
“ neighbours, and one of them, Ukkedutmund Khan, is prefent.”
As this charge was without foundation, it was immediately dif-
proved by the khan and others ; upon which the navob fpoke
kindly, and told him he might go to Calcutta, or flay with
him, as fuited his inclination. The dodlor prudently declined
the former offer. Meer Caufim hoped, that through him Mr.
Vanfittart might be induced to grant him peace, and defired me
to retire with him, and found him on the fubjedt. I did fo;
but the Dodlor declared, that after the maffacre of Mr. Amyatt
and fo many Englifhmen, a reconciliation was impoffible. Upon
my communicating this, the navob called him to him, and
queflioned him himfelf ; but receiving the fame reply, deli fled
from urging him further on the bufinefs, faying, that “ fince he
“ would not go to Calcutta, he might flay where he pleafed.” The
dodlor requefled he would fix him a refidence ; and the navob
ordered Ali Ibrahim Khan to give him a houfe in the city, but
to put perfons over him, to take care that he did not converfe
with his people : he alfo took the bail of Himmut Ali Khan for
his fecurity.

The Englifh, having had Monghyr delivered up to them by
the treachery of the governor, Arab Ali Khan, were advancing

fall

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

fall towards Patna; upon which Meer Caufim moved to Bik-
krum Serai, fome diftance from the city, Rationing troops in
different pods to keep up the communication with his camp.
About this time. Dr. Fullarton having efcaped with his bail’s—
man to the Dutch fadtory, croffed the river in a fmall boat,
and joined fome Englifh troops who were on the oppofite bank.

The Englifh army, arriving at Patna, gained poffeflion of that
city with little trouble, the walls being in a ruinous flate, and
unable to Hand againfl cannon. Meer Caufim now retreated to-
wards the frontiers of Bahar, and fent for his women and trea-
fures from the fort of Rhotas, intending to retire into the country
of the vizier for protection. Meerza Nujeef Khan, who had
experienced the treachery of Shujah ad Dowlah, advifed him
againfl putting himfelf into his power, offering if he would trail
him with the command of his troops to tire out the Englifh,
by falfe attacks and cutting off their fupplies from the country,
while Meer Caufim might remain fecurely at Rhotas. The
navob refufed his offers, alleging, that the air of Rhotas was
dangeroufly unhealthy; but it is probable he was fearful of giv-
ing him the command of the army. Nujeef Khan then pro-
pofed his returning into 1 Bondelcund, and calling the Mharattas
to his afliflance ; but this he declined, from a dread of the ra-
pacity of thofe marauders; and refolved to join the emperor and
vizier. Intelligence now arrived that the Englifh were rapidly
advancing, and had fent a detachment over the river to oppofe
his retreat on that fide ; which fo alarmed him, that he moved
immediately to Saffaram, and the next day continued his march
to the banks of the rivulet Dergautty. Here the troops became
clamorous for payment of their arrears, and the camp was a
fcene of confufion. The next morning Nujeef Khan took his

leave

* A territory weft of the Jumna, belonging to a tribe of Raajepootes called
Bondelas.

43°

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

leave, not chafing to truft himfelf in the vizier’s country, when
the navob prefented him with a lac and half of rupees, and
five elephants. At this time, a treaty under the vizier’s feal,
promifing by oath on the Koraun protection and affiftance, ar-
riving, Meer Caufim croffed the a Carumnaffa, and entered the
diftriCt of Bulwund Sing, fubjedt to Shujah ad Dowlah. He pro-
ceeded to Banaras, where he halted fome days, and difeharged
a confiderable part of his troops, keeping only his difeiplined
fepoys, artillery, and a feledted body of cavalry. Meerza Nu-
jeef Khan retired into Bondelcund, and entered into the fervice
of the raja of that country.

The emperor and Shujah ad Dowlah being encamped at Ale-
abad, preparatory to an expedition into Bondelcund, Meer Cau-
v. fim marched to join them. Upon his arrival within a few cofs

of the camp, the vizier came in great pomp to meet him,
and was received with equal magnificence, fuperb tents being
pitched for his reception, and the troops ranged in two lines
from them to a great diftance. Meer Caufim and his principal
attendants in rich dreffes met him at the entrance of his tent,
when the two navobs embraced and fat down on the fame muf-
nud. After a fhort converfation and the ufual ceremony of va-
luable prefents of rich cloths, jewels and elephants on the part
of Meer Caufim, they mounted an elephant together, and re-
paired to vifit the emperor. The day following, Meer Caufim
returned the vizier’s vifit, and was received with the higheft
honours, and encouraged by promifes of his utmoft efforts to
recover Bengal from the hands of the Englifh. A few days
after, he prefented to the vizier, jewels to the amount of fome
lacs of rupees, a chariot drawn by elephants fumptuoufly capa-
rifoned with embroidered houfings to his begum, and very va-
luable

a A river feparating Bahar and Banaras, then belonging to Shujah ad Dowlah.

HISTORY OF BENGAL,

43*

luable gifts to his mother, who had honoured Meer Caufim
with the appellation of fon.

Meer Caulim prefling Shujah ad Dowlah to lofe no time in
marching againft the Englifh, he pleaded that he was at pre-
fent employed againft the Bondelas, who had refufed payment
of their revenues; upon which Meer Caufim offered to reduce
them with his battalions ; and the vizier confenting, he crofted the
Jumna, and laid fiege fuccefsfully to one of their forts. The
enemy, alarmed at this lofs, and impreffed with awe by the bat-
talions of fepoys clothed after the European mode, their fuperior
difcipline, and the artillery, offered fubmiftion through Nujeef
Khan; and Meer Caufim, having adjufted affairs to the fatis-
fadtion of the vizier, returned to his camp. It was now agreed to
march againft the Englifh, and the allied armies moved to Ba-
naras, to make preparations, Meer Caufim promifing to pay the
vizier 3 eleven lacs of rupees monthly, from the day he fhould
crofs the Ganges into the province of Bahar, till the conclufion
of the war.

. I

A bridge of boats being thrown acrofs the Ganges, the al-
lied armies began their march, in numbers not to be reckoned,
covering the country far as the eye could reach ; but, from the
ignorance of the generals, and want of difcipline, murdering
and plundering each other. It was not an army, but rather, a
moving nation. Some of his more difcerni ng minifters reprefented
to the vizier, that he fhould not truft to fuperiority of num-
bers againft the Englifh, or engage them in a general adtion,
but rather feledt his beft troops, and leave the reft, with his
women and the fuperfluous followers of the camp, on his fron-
tiers, when he _ would be fure of vidtory by harafling the ene-
my with continued alarms and cutting off fupplies of provifions ;

* One hundred and ten thoufand pounds.

43^

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

in which cafe, they would by degrees be obliged to retreat.
The vizier, vain of his power, liftened not to advice, and thought
meanly of the Englifh ; who on their parts, fatigued with the
late campaign during a rainy feafon, and alarmed at the reports
of the abilities of the vizier and the vaftnefs of his army, had
marched from Buxar, and were retreating towards Patna. The
emperor, Shujah ad Dowlah, and Meer Caufim, having entered
the province of Bahar, followed them, their diforderly troops
fpreading defolation for miles round their line of march ; which
fo much difgufted the inhabitants, who before were anxious for
the fuccefs of the vizier, that they changed their wifhes into
prayers for the fuccefs of the Englifh, who had never molefted
them. The Englilh having placed their heavy baggage and
fuperfluous followers in Patna, returned as far as Arole to op-
pofe the allies ; but, finding themfelves unable to keep the field,
retreated again to the neighbourhood of that city, and threw
up entrenchments to defend themfelves, being clofely purfued by
the enemy ; who, elated by this fuccefs, became ftill more
confident of victory.

Shujah ad Dowlah, after halting one day at Phulwauree,
about four Englilh miles from Patna, marched the next morning
to attack the enemy, who defended themfelves gallantly againfl
three feveral aflaults ; and on the approach of night, the vizier
returned to his tents, having loft a great number of men by
the enemy’s fire. Meer Caufim greatly offended his ally by
flaying at a great diftance with his battalions, and neglecting to
move to his affiftance when required. Nothing farther was at-
tempted for fome days, the vizier being indifpofed, according
to one report, from a wound he had received in the action, and
by another, of a violent eruption of boils. On his recovery,
he moved his camp to the fouth of the city, but did nothing,
except now and then fhewing himfelf under arms, major

Carnac,

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

433

Carnac, the Englifh commander, with Mhadee Khan, who had
joined him from the army of Meer Caufim, and a few fepoys,
being one day reconnoitring, met the vizier, who was riding
for the fame purpofe, with fome of his attendants, ignorant of
each other, they began firing at a diftance. Upon their nearer
approach, the vizier was known, and pointed out by Meer Mha-
dee to the major, who fent for a reinforcement. A fkirmifh was
kept up, till more English troops advancing, one of the vizier’s
attendants rode haftily to his camp, to give the alarm of his
danger, and the vizier, feeing the fuperiority of the enemy,
turned his horfe and made his efcape.

A month elapfed in inactivity ; and the rains approaching,
the allies, not chufing to remain longer before Patna, retreated
towards Buxar, where they continued, intending to return after
the wet feafon. My father, who had come from his jaghire to
pay his refpedts to the emperor, was in the camp ; and I, be-
ing difgufted with Meer Caufim, had left his fervice and joined
his majefty. DoCtor Fullarton, with whom and feveral other
Englifhmen I was intimately acquainted, had frequently written
to me to perfuade the emperor to quit the vizier, and join them.
I communicated this to my father, obferving, that fuch a ftep
would certainly prove for his majefty’s welfare, as, from the ir-
regularity of the allied army, the Englifh muff in the end be
victorious. My father and Moneer ad Dowlah propofed it to
the emperor; who, weary of the negleCt and difrefpeCt fhewn
him by Shujah ad Dowlah, wifhed to free himfelf from his
hands, and join the Englifh. His majefty accordingly wrote a
letter with his own hand, teftifying his wifhes of accepting the
fervices of the Englifh, and defiring that they would regard as
his fentiments only what was conveyed in his own hand writing,
or through me by meflage. With this letter I departed for
Patna, my father at the fame time retiring to his jaghire. Upon
Vol. II. H h h my

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

my arrival, I found that a great coolnefs had taken place between
major Carnac and Dr. Fullarton. I was however introduced to
the former, in prefence of the navob Meer Jaffier, and deliver-
ed the letter, which the major received with great refped, plac-
ing it, according to cuftom, on his head. Upon hearing the
contents, he told me, “ That as his majefty was not at prefent
“ in a fituation to ad from himfelf, but dependant on the vizier,
“ he could not obey his orders, or negotiate with him.’' An
anfwer was given me ; but as I faw my endeavours were vain,
I fent it to the emperor by a courier, and returned home. The
major having given the letter to his fervant Sadooram, he dif-
patched a copy to Shittabroy, the deputy of Beny Bahadur, mi-
nifler to the vizier.

During my day at my father’s jaghire, I heard of the vizier’s
confining Meer Caufim and confifcating his effects; the particu'*
tars of which, as given me afterwards by Ali Ibrahim Khan, I.
fhall relate.

Meer Caufim had agreed to pay the vizier for his affidancc
eleven lacs of rupees monthly during the war ; but, finding that
it was likely to be of long continuance, he wifhed to be out of
his power, in cafe his refources fihould fail him before the
conclufion. With this view he made a requeft to the vizier,
through Ali Ibrahim Khan, that he would permit him to march
towards Moorfhudabad and colled: the revenues of the coun-
try, which he could readily effed, while the Englifh had the
vizier to employ their attention. Shujah, in reply, exprefied
fears that Meer Caufim might not return to him again, but
faid, he would detach another perfon to raife contributions in
his name; which however he never did, and Meer Caufim re-
ceived no fupply from the provinces. A few days afterwards,
the vizier demanded payment of his fubfidy, and Meer Caufim

pleaded

HISTORY OF BENGAL,

4 25

pleaded inability. Shujah ad Dowlah then pretended that the
emperor was preffing for the Bengal tribute, and had refolved
to fend his officers to feize his effects. Upon this, Meer Cau-
fim difpatched Ali Ibrahim Khan to befeech the protection of
his ally from the royal demands •, but the vizier replied, that
he could not interfere, and he mull fettle his accounts with
the emperor. Meer Caufim was covered with defpair, and ad-
vifed with Ali Ibrahim Khan ; who recommended him to pay
the demands of the vizier, if he had money j or if he had not,
to go to him himfelf, and remind him of his promifes of pro-
tection. Meer Caufim negleCting this, thought it fafeft to aaf-
fume the habit of a devotee, thinking that the vizier would
relent, not chufing to have it faid of him, that he had reduced
an ally to fuch a fituation. The next morning, he with his
friends affumed facred habits, and, laying afide the mufnud, feat-
ed himfelf on a bare mat. Intelligence of this proceeding being
carried to Shujah ad Dowlah, he affeCted much concern, and re-
paired to Meer Caufim ; whom, after much argument and affurances
of friendfhip, he prevailed upon to change his habit, and re-
affume his ufual flate. A few days after this event, Sumroo
the German, who commanded the difciplined battalions, fur-
rounded the tents of Meer Caufim, clamorous for pay ; and the
navob having no rupees, was obliged to fatisfy them with gold
from his haram j after which he told Sumroo, that as it was
not in his power to keep them longer, he mud difcharge them
his fervice ; but defired he would deliver the arms and accou-
trements of the fepoys, with the cannon, to the officer of his
arfenal. Sumroo infolently replied, that they now belonged to
thofe who pofTeffed them, and treacheroufly deferted with the
battalions to the vizier, who received him into his fervice and

H h h 2 being

3 Doing this is regarded as a great reflexion on a patron.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

being now convinced that Meer Caufim had a fecret treafure,
refolved to feize it.

The following night, Monfieur Gentil, a Frenchman, for-
merly in the fervice of Meer Caufim, but now of the vizier,
coming with five or fix of his countrymen to the tents of Ali
Ibrahim Khan, with whom he was intimately acquainted, in-
formed him, that on the morrow Meer Caufim would be taken
prifoner and his effects feized by the vizier, when there would
be much confufion in the camp ; on which account, left any
injury fhould happen to his friend, he had brought his country-
men to ftay with him till the danger fhould be over. Ali Ibra-
him Khan thanked him for his friendfhip, but declined accept-
ing his offer, as it would have the appearance of his having
deferted Meer Caufim, and put himfelf under the, protection of
the vizier.

About nine the next morning the vizier’s army furrounded
the tents of the navob ; guards were placed over them, and
Meer Caufim, being forced to mount an elephant, was carried
prifoner to the camp of his ally. Mr. Gentil again offered his
fervices to Ali Ibrahim Khan, but he again refufed, determined
to fhare the fate of his patron. In the evening he was called
to the vizier’s tent, and received with much attention by him,
who afked him feveral queftions concerning Meer Caufim, hop-
ing, from his replies, to draw fome apology for his own con-
duct towards him.

' Shujah ad Dowlah firft faid, “ What evil had I done to
(e Ali Jah, that, on the day of my attacking the Englifh at
“ Patna, he ordered Sumroo to fire upon me, as I was re-
“ turning to my tents in the evening ?” Ali Ibrahim replied,
“ I am ignorant of fuch an order; and woe be to the navob,

“ if

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

437

(i if he could thus treacheroufly a<ft towards a friend, who had
tc left his own government, and encountered fuch an enemy as
the Englifh, to reftore him to his loft power and dignity/'
The vizier being angry, faid, “ Do I fpeak falfely? I can
“ call Sumroo to declare it in the prefence of Ali Jah and
“ yourfelf.” He replied, “ I do not contradict your highnefs ;
“ but at prefent my mafter is fo reduced, that the teftimony
“ of his lowed: menial may be brought againft him, and Sum-
“ roo is a man of power compared to him.” Shujah ad Dow-
lah was afhamed, and began to foothe Ali Ibrahim, faying,
“ I know your virtues, but Meer Cauftm was ever fufpicious
“ of you, and often fpoke againft you privately.” He replied,
4t I am confcious of no crime againft him, but that on his re-
“ treat from Patna, when fome perfons advifed him to fly to
" Dekkan and feek refuge with the Mharattas, I importunately
“ befought him to apply to the emperor and your highnefs,
“ thinking the throne and vizarut the only fit afylums for Meer
<e Caufim.” Shujah ad Dowlah to this made no reply ; but,
after fome compliments to the fidelity of Ali Ibrahim, retired
into his haram, leaving Beny Bahadur, his minifter, and other
fervants to put further queftions to him. He was now defired,
as he muft be entrufted with the fecrets of Meer Caufim, to
inform in whofe hands he had depofited his treafures, and to
deliver up forty thoufand gold mhors, which Nuttoo Sing, Sum-
roo’s fpy, had faid were committed to his charge. He defired
that Nuttoo Sing might be called in; which being complied
with, he obferved before him, that the different offices, from the
water- houfe to the jewels, had been under the charge of Sum-
roo, who had alfo received a Hack of gold mhors in truft from
the navob, of whofe property he alone could give an account.
Nuttoo Sing denying this, Ali Ibrahim Khan obferved to Beny
Bahadur, that fince the affirmation, of one like himfelf in the

confidence

* One hundred and fifty thoufand pounds.

43s

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

confidence of Meer Caufim, were not believed, he might judge
what degree of credit was due to the information of a wretched
fpy. Upon this, Beny Bahadur, convinced of his fincerity, in-
formed the vizier of what had palled, and Ali Ibrahim Khan
was permitted to retire without further moleftation, and to keep
poffefiion of his effedts. A Stridt exadtion of the treafures of
Meer Caufim was made by the vizier from his women, eunuchs,
and fervants, to a great amount ; but a conliderable number of
valuable jewels, which he had fent away before the alarm, under
charge of a faithful domeftic, named Shekh Mahummud Afhuk,
into the Rohilla country, were faved, and honeStly delivered up
to him again, when he efcaped from the hands of Shujah ad
Dowlah. It is probable, the women and eunuchs alfo might
fave fomething, notwithstanding the ftridtnefs of the fearch.

The vizier, being defirous of poffefling the fort of Rhotas,
which Still held out for Meer Caufim, fent Meer Solymaun to
negotiate with the kelladaar for its delivery. I had, before his
arrival, received a letter from major Munro, through dodtor
Fullarton, exprefling his defire that I would endeavour to bring
over the kelladaar to Meer Jaflier’s interefl ; and, accordingly, I
reprefented to him the probability of the fuperiority of the
Englifh, and the advantages he would derive to himlelf and his
family by fecuring their friendship. Raja Shawmul was a pru-
dent man, and cautioufly weighed the propofals of Meer Soly-
maun and myfelf; but at length he refolved to follow my
advice ; and giving me a paper with certain conditions for the
acceptance of major Munro, I fent it to him, with a requeft
that he would difpatch a force to garrifon the fort, which
would be delivered on his ratifying the raja’s demands. The
major complied, and captain Goddard arriving with a detach-
ment, Rhotas was put into his pofTeflion; upon which Meer
Solymaun returned to the vizier, and complained of my being

the

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

439

the caufe of his difappointment. Some difagreement occurring
between captain Goddard and Shawmul, the latter defired that
I would go with him to Patna, and obtain from major Munro
the performance of his agreement ; and I, being fearful of the
refentment of the vizier, gladly accompanied him.

I muft now return to the affairs of Meer Jaffier and the
Englifh, after the retreat of the allied army from the neigh-
bourhood of Patna.

Meer Jaffier at the conclufion of the campaign, upon the
retreat of the allies, repaired to Calcutta, having affairs of im-
portance to fettle with the council, and left the government of
Patna and the direction of his army to his brother Meer Cau-
fim Khan, appointing Deerauje Narain, brother to the late Raja
Ramnarain, his deputy over the province of Bahar. This man
was incapable of bufinefs, and had no other claim to favour
than the murder of his brother by Meer Caufim. In the fame
manner, all who had enjoyed his favour, were now expofed to
the refentment of Meer Jaffier, and obliged to remain in con-
cealment, till his death enabled them to return to their habita-
tions. Thofe who had been difliked by Meer Caufim were
entrufted with the direction of affairs in every department. Meer
Jaffier remained fome time at Calcutta, endeavouring to prevail
on the council to admit of aNundcomar’s being his firft minif-
ter ; but Mr. Vanfittart, knowing the navob’s weaknefs and the
bad qualities of his favourite would not confent, dreading the
oppreffions of the people, from Nundcomar’s tyrannical difpofi-
tion, which had been already experienced. The navob departed,
much difappointed, to Moorfhudabad without his confidant, whofe
return, however, foon after took place ; and, notwithftanding the
earnefl remonftrances of Mr. Vanfittart, he was entrufted by

Meer

* Afterwards executed for forgery.

44°

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

Meer Jaffier with the foie direction of his affairs. By his advice,
Mahummud Reza Khan, the governor of Dacca, was confined;
but afterwards releafed on the interference of the Englifh.

About this time, Meer Jaffier being taken ill, continued to
decline, till at length, on Tuefday, the fourteenth of Shauban,
A. D. 1764. 1178, he departed from this unftable world. He would wil-
lingly have concluded a peace with Shujah ad Dowlah, and
given up the province of Bahar to him, with a tribute to the
emperor for Bengal ; to which conditions it is probable the
Englifh alfo would have affented on affurances of protedtion in
their trade. But the vizier was too haughty to be fatisfted with
lefs than the conquett of the three provinces. Shujah ad Dow-
lah, however, with fuch high pretenfions and fo powerful an
army, had not condudt to exert his force, though too proud to
litten to the advice of his intelligent friends.

The Englifh council, feeing that the vizier would not litten
to any reafonable terms of accommodation, iffued orders to ma-
jor Munro, who had fuperfeded major Carnac, to march againft
the enemy cantoned at Buxar. Accordingly, the major, having
muttered his army, and provided ten days provifions, refolving
in that fpace to conquer or die, began his march. The vizier,
informed of his intention, detached a body of Mogul horfe to
harafs his line, and withdrew fome cannon which had been
planted on the banks of the river Soan ; but the main army
remained in cantonments, ttrongly defended by entrenchments,
which the vizier hoped would defend him from the enemy, till
they fhould be obliged to retire for frefh fupplies.

V _

At length major Munro arrived within a fhort dittance, and
encamped on the border of a morafs, which now divided the
two armies, who remained in fight of each other inactive for

two

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

44*

two days. the third, the vizier altered his refolution, and

refolved to attack the enemy, taking upon himfelf the command
of the Mogul cavaiVy. Sumroo and Mr. Maddoc, with eight
battalions of fepoys, and eight field pieces, formed the front
line ; to fupport which, Sh'ujah Koollee Khan was ftationed in
their rear with his own followers, a>!?out feven thoufand horfe
and foot. The vizier took poft at a diftacce on their right, and
the minifter Beny Bahadur occupied a ruined village on the
bank of the Ganges, to their left. A fharp firing of cannon
and mufquetry commenced, with great flaughter on both lides.
The vizier haraffed the enemy in flank, and the Duranny horfe
charging major Munro’s cavalry, penetrated his line, which be-
gan to be confufed from this attack and the cannonade of
Maddoc and Sumroo, whom the Englifh could not charge,
owing to the morafs which divided them in front. Major Munro
detached a force to diflodge Beny Bahadur from the village,
which being effected, occafioned fome alarm in the vizier’s army.
At this time, Shujah Koollee Khan feeing Beny Bahadur en-
gaged, anxious to have his fhare in the a&ion, quitted his Na-
tion, in the rear of the battalions, and attempted to charge
through the morafs in their front, by this means obliging them
to defift from firing upon the enemy, left they fhould injure
their friends. He gained the bank, only to fall an immediate
facrifice, with moft of his followers who had the valour to ac-
company him, to the grape fhot of the Englifh ; and the fur-
vivors fled upon the death of their chief. The party which had
routed Beny Bahadur, at this inftant entered the camp of the
vizier, which was now thrown into complete diforder. No one
had time to regard his baggage, looking only for perfonal fafety
by flight; and the Mogul and Duranny cavalry, feeing all loft,
deferted their patron, and began to plunder his tents. Shujah
ad Dowlah, left almoft alone, was obliged to follow the route
of his army. All the baggage of the vizier and his chiefs, with
Vol. II. I i i a great

442

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

a great treafure belonging to the bankers and merchants in mo-
ney and goods, fell a prey to the enemy, and the treacherous
deferters and camp followers above mentioned, who plundered
each other afterwards. A great train of artillery and numerous
tents were taken by the Englilh. It is iinpoffible to eftimate
the amount of the plunder, as the cantonments refembled rather
a populous city than a camp. Great numbers of the fugitives
were drowned in attempting to crofs a rivulet in their flight.
Meer Caufim was releafed by the vizier, who alfo had prefent-
ed him with a forry female elephant the day before the adtion,
which enabled him to make his efcape from the field to the
neighbourhood of Banaras. Shujah ad Dowlah fled to Aleabad,
leaving his minifter Beny Bahadur to efcort the emperor; but
Shaw Aulum, who was difgufted with the vizier, refilling to
accompany him, Beny Bahadur after a few days eroded the
Ganges, being fearful of the purfuit of the Englilh.

The emperor being now his own mailer, by the advice of
Munneer ad Dowlah, called upon the Englilh for their protec-
tion, who obeyed the fummons, and conducted him to Banaras.
They alfo invited Beny Bahadur to an interview, and held out
offers of peace to the vizier his mailer, provided he would de-
liver Meer Caufim and Sumroo into their hands. The raja pro-
mifed the former, but pleaded inability to effedt the latter, as
he was at the head of his battalions, who would defend him.
While a negotiation was carrying on, Ali Ibrahim Khan difco-
vering the intentions of the raja, informed Meer Caufim Khan,
who found means to make his efcape into the Rohilla country,
with his family and few remaining friends. At Aleabad he found
his women, who, after being plundered by the vizier’s people,
of what little they had left from the general confifcation, had
been releafed from confinement in the fort, and left without
protection at an obfcure houfe in the city.

Shujah

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

443

Shujah ad Dowlah thinking himfelf unfafe longer in his own
dominions, on his arrival at Aleabad difpatched confidential fer-
vants to his capitals of Lucnow and Fyezabad, to efcort his
women and effects at thofe places to Burrelli, the refidence of
Hafiz Rhamut, a Rohilla chief ; where he alfo repaired with
his mother and Begum from Aleabad. He refufed to liften to
the advice of Beny Bahadur to accept terms from the Englifh,
thinking it would degrade his character in the empire, and hop-
ing to recover his Ioffes by the afliftance of the Afgftauns and
Mulhar Raow Mharatta ; but in order to gain time, he fent his
minifter to Lucnow, inflrudting him to amufe the enemy with
negotiations, which would keep up his authority in the pro-
vince. He, notwithftanding their family hatred, vifited Ahmud
Khan Bungufh at Ferokhabad, and entreated his afliftance ; who,
with the other Rohilla chiefs, promifed to fupport him, as did
alfo Ghazfad Dien Khan, then at that city. By their advice,
he called in Mulhar Raow, who was with an army of Mha-
rattas in the vicinity of Gualior. Mulhar, on the promife of a
large fum of money, joined him; but Ahmud Khan and the
Rohilla chiefs amufed him only with promifes, and brought no
troops to his afliftance.

Raja Beny Bahadur having proceeded to Lucnow, wrote to
Shittabroy, who was employed by the Englifh, that Shujah ad
Dowlah would not confent to peace on the proferred conditions ;
that Meer Caufim had efcaped from his hands, and he could
not take Sumroo but by treachery, which he abhorred ; therefore
refolved to continue the war. The minifter, agreeably to the
plan formed between himfelf and the vizier, declared his own
readinefs to join the Englifh; and Shittabroy, deceived by his
declaration, recommended his being received, to general Carnac,
who had now reaflumed the command of the army at Banaras
in the room of major Munro. The general accordingly invited

I i i 2 Beny

444

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

Beny Bahadur to an interview ; upon which he came to the
camp, and was gracioufly received. He remained till fuch time
as Shujah ad Dowlah was joined by the Mharattas at Korah,
when he left the Englifh, under pretence of fettling the diftridts
of the province, and returned with his followers to the vizier,
a fmall efcort of general Carnac’s fepoys, which he had requeu-
ed might remain with him, being unable to prevent his flight.
It is alfo faid, that Beny Bahadur would not have taken this
flep, being gratified by the confidence of the Englifh general
and a promife of continuance in the management of Oude, but
for the following circumftance. Being very fuperftitious, he en-
quired of a prophefying fakeer, the probable event of the war.
The fakeer replied, “ The Englifh were like a hurricane, vio-
“ lent in progrefs, but foon gone.” The minifter, interpreting
this as a prognoftic of vidtory to the vizier, thought it fafeft to
rejoin him. Shittabroy, who had pledged himfelf for the fide-
lity of Beny Bahadur, was alarmed for his own fafety, left ge-
neral Carnac ftiould fufpedt him of being privy to his treachery;
but the Englifh, having received fo many proofs of his attach-
ment, were too generous to fuppofe him capable of betraying
their confidence, and upon his offering to go to Calcutta, and
fubmit his fate to the council, eafed his mind of all alarm, by
aflii ranees that they thought him as much deceived as them-
felves by the artful minifter.

Before the Iaft mentioned occurrence, the Englifh had de-
tached two battalions of fepoys to Lucnow, and a force to
befiege the fortrefs of Chunar. The former under major Stib-
bert, were fuccefsful in their operations ; but the latter failed in
a night attack, and fuffered fome lofs. This, and the prepar-
ations of Shujah ad . Dowlah, caufed general Carnac to raife the
liege, and march towards Aleabad. The Englifh were now
joined by Nujeef Khan with his followers from Bondelcund ;

and

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

445

and he, being well acquainted with the fortrefs, pointed out
the weakeft part, which was foon breached by the cannon ;
when the garrifon, not chufing to brave a ftorm, furrendered,
and the Englifh marched on to Korah in purfuit of the vizier.
The conquered diftridts were fettled by Raja Shittabroy, who
made ffcipulations with the zemindars, and levied native troops
in the name of the Englifh.

When Raow Mulhar had joined Shujah ad Dowlah, he ad-
vanced towards the Englifh, but his army was much dilpirited,
and Rill labouring under a panic from the defeat at Buxar.
The Afghauns delayed joining him under various pretences, and
Ghazi ad Dien Khan, who did come, had only a few followers,
incapable of fervice. An engagement, or rather a fkirmifh, took
place in the neighbourhood of Korah, in which the Mharattas
were quickly difperfed by the Englifh artillery, and fled acrofs
the Jumna to their own territories. The vizier retreated to
Ferokhabad, irrefolute how to adt, when Ahmud Khan advifed
him 'rather to throw himfelf on the clemency of the Englifh,
than wafle the remainder of his property on troops, that would
always defer t him in the face of danger j obfervi ng, that from
the character of the Englifh for wifdom and juftice, it was
certain they would pay proper refpedt to his rank and dignity.
After this fecond vidtory, the garrifon of Chunar, defpairing of
relief, delivered up the fortrefs to the Englifh Aumil without
a flege, of their own accord.

The vizier, having confidered the advice of Ahmud Khan,
refolved to embrace it ; and, accordingly, fet out in a palan-
quin with a few attendants to the Englifh camp. Major Carnac
being informed of his approach, advanced with feveral officers
and Raja Shittabroy to meet him. Upon his appearing in fight,
the vizier alighted from his palanquin, and at meeting he and
' the

446

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

the major embraced. The major and the company then pre-
fented nuzzers, and accompanied their noble gueft on foot to
their tents, where a collation was provided, and every affurance
given him of reconciliation and future friendship. The vizier,
after taking refrefhments, retired to fleep, and in the evening
returned to his own tents, at fome miles distance from the
English camp. Being now fatisfied of the fincerity of major
Carnac, he fent for his followers and equipage. Frequent vifits
fucceeded between them, and a treaty was fpeedily concluded
to the fatisfaftion of both parties. The Englifh reftored the
province of Oude to the vizier, on condition of his paying
a fifty lacs of rupees for the expenfes of the war, half in ready
money, and half by a draft on the revenues ; the vizier to
have credit for what had been collected in Oude by the Eng-
lifh. The province of Aleabad was fettled on the emperor,
who was to refide in the capital, and have a detachment of
Englifh for his protection. Nujeef Khan had a falary of one
lac of rupees fettled on him from the royal tribute of Bengal.
Bulwund Sing, collector of Banaras, who had deferted Shujah
ad Dowlah, was reinstated in his favour and government at the
requeft of the English. The vizier, upon the conclufion of the
treaty, endeavoured to raife the fum immediately due to the
Englifh. He applied to his mother, begum, neareft relations, and
dependants, to affift him j but they all, except his begum, though
well able to afford him the demands made upon them, pleaded
inability, offering, fome half, and others a third. The begum
generoufly fent him all her money, jewels, and plate, even to
the nofe-ring, and whatever cafh and ornaments fhe could col-
left among her attendants, faying, that the fafety of Shujah ad
Dowlah was her choiceft treafure. Though a woman, fhe afted
like a man in conflancy and fidelity, juflifying this verfe of the
poet, “ A virtuous and obedient wife makes a king of her

“ hufband.

Five hundred thoufand pounds.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

447

(( hulband, though poor.” Shujah ad Dowlah, in return for
this generous behaviour, always entrufted to her the favings of his
revenues. Having paid all the money he could raife, he gave
jewels in pledge for the remainder; and affairs being fettled
with his new allies, took leave, and returned to Fyezabad, leav-
ing deputies in his offices of vizier and 1 meer atuffiee with the
emperor. The fort of Chunar was given up to him by the
Engliih, in exchange for that of Aleabad.

When providence had clofed the pages of the life of Meer A.D. 1765.
Jaffier, Mr. Vanfittart having returned to Europe on hearing of
the appointment of lord Clive to fucceed him, the council
placed upon the mufnud of the provinces Meer Phulwaree, eldeft
fon of Meer Jaffier by Munny Begum. The young navob af-
fumed the title of Nudjum ad Dowlah. Nundcomar continued
minifter and dewan of Bengal, and Meer Cauzim Khan, bro-
ther to Meer Jaffier, nazim of Bahar, as his nephew’s deputy.

Deerauje Narain remained dewan under him ; but, upon the
arrival of lord Clive, Nundcomar, though he had been his
‘moonfhee when in Hindooftan formerly, was difplaced, and
Mahummud Reza Khan appointed in his room ; his lordffiip
being convinced from a reprefentation which the late governor
had left for his examination in the hands of his brother Mr.

George Vanfittart, that Nundcomar was unworthy of fo con-
fidential an office. Lord Clive alfo demanded from a deputa-
tion of the council, the prefents they had received from, the:
navob ; but they refufed, obferving, that when his lord-
fhip fhould pay to the company what fums he had received
from the father, they would willingly reffore what had been
given them by the fon. Thefe gentlemen at the fame time
refigned the company’s fervice ; fo that the governor could not
enforce obedience to his commands.

Soon

* Commander of artillery.

b Perfian fecretary.

448

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

Soon after his arrival, lord Clive repaired to Aleabad to ob-
tain the direction of the revenues of the provinces for the
company, and the funnuds were granted without delay; the
emperor and vizier being fubjedfed as much by the wiidom, as
by the valour, of the Englilh. An agreement to pay annually
2 fix and twenty lacs of rupees, as the royal revenues lor the
three provinces, was given under the feal of the company to
the emperor. This important bufinefs was fettled without heli-
tation or argument, as eafily as the purchafe of an als or any
other animal, without envoys either to the king of England or
the company. Lord Clive returned to Calcutta, leaving general
Smith to attend the emperor, but who was in fadt his ruler;
for the general refided in the fortrefs, and his majefty in the
town ; and the found of the imperial b nobut in the fort being
difagreeable to general Smith, he forbad the band to play, nor
did the fervants of the emperor refufe.

Lord Clive, upon his return towards Calcutta, flopped at
Patna to regulate the government of Bahar, which was confer-
red on Deerauje Narain, in the room of Meer Cauzim Khan,
who retired to Raujemahal on a penfion of one Jac of rupees.
As the 'jaghires and " altumgahs had been free lince Mahabut
Jung’s acceiiion, the Euglifti with great generolity did not abo-
lifh them, but left to every perfon what he held ; and for this,
gratitude is due to God and them, for otherwife, the noble fa-
milies of thefe provinces could not have fubfifled. The Eng-

li£h

a Four hundred and forty thoufand pounds.

b The nobut is compofed of large and fmall drums, thrill trumpets, and feveral
forts of wind inftruments, horridly grating to a European ear; but, it is very
pofiible, the general might not have known the indignity he was offering to
majefty in forbidding them to play, the Englifh being then but little acquainted
with the cuftoms of Hindooftan. A nobut was kept in every royal fortrefs, to
play at ftated hours of the day.

e Lands, or penfions on the revenue.

4 Lands granted in perpetuity.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

449

lifh defired, that every perfon’s jaghire or allowance fhould be
in perpetuity to his family ; thus fecuring it from the probable
changes, in a fucceffion of emperors, or inte relied officers of
government. Praifed be God ! this rule has continued to this
day, and by his mercy is likely to remain in force, from which
numbers, who are content with competence, enjoy eafe and
fecurity.

Lord Clive the following year advanced to Chopprah, to
meet Shujah ad Dowlah, Munneer ad Dowlah, the emperor’s
minifter, and Raja Bulwund Sing ; when fome additions to former
treaties were concluded between them, the latter being fecured
in the government of Banaras on the payment of a revenue of
* twenty two lacs of rupees, the vizier giving fecurity to the
Englilh not to injure or remove him. Nudjum ad Dowlah
dying of the fmall pox, was fucceeded by his brother Syef ad
Dowlah as navob of Bengal, Bahar, and Oriffa. Deerauje Narain,
the governor of Bahar, being convided of mifmanagement and
peculation of the revenues, was difplaced, and fucceeded by Raja
Shittabroy in conjunction with Mr. Rumbold. Mr. Sykes was
appointed to ad: in the affairs of government at Moorfhudabad
with the deputy navob Mahummud Reza Khan. Lord Clive
having fettled the provinces to his fatisfadion, returned to Eu-
rope, and was fucceeded by Mr. Verelft; and general Carnac
accompanying his lordfhip, general Smith became commander in
chief of the Englifh army.

The adminiftration of the provinces was now fettled in the
manner following : Mahummud Reza Khan, the Naib navob,
conduded affairs at the capital, Shittabroy at Patna, and Jeffau-
rut Khan at Dacca, in conjundion with a member of coun-
Vol. II. K k k cil

8 Two hundred and twenty thoufand pounds.

45°

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

cil at each city, as chief, on the part of the Englifh. Two
days weekly the naib communicated to his Englifh colleague
his tranfadlions, plans, difburfements, and receipts in every de-
partment, for his fatisfadtion, and the information and approval
of the prefidency. Two days in each week were alfo fet apart;
in which the naib and chief received appeals from the courts
of juftice, and confirmed or reverfed their decifions by the affift-
ance of the chief magiftrates. By thefe means, government was
properly conducted, and the Englifh became informed of the
laws, revenues, and cuftoms of the country, agreeably to their
ufage , recording in books every cafe, and the information re-
ceived upon it from the native officers, for their guidance.

A. D. 1769, Mr. Rumbold returning to Europe, Mr. Alexander fucceeded
him as chief at Patna, and Mr. Becher was appointed refident
at Moorfhudabad, in the room of Mr. Sykes, who retired to
England.

In the latter end of this year a famine and epidemical dif-
order began to rage with great violence. Of the latter died
the navob Syef ad Dowlah, and feveral perfons of rank fo on
after. Thefe united calamities continued for upwards of three
months, carrying off more perfons than can be computed. Mu-
baric ad Dowlah, third fon of Meer Jaffier, fucceeded his bro-
ther on the mufnud of the provinces, and a four and twenty
lacs of rupees annually were fettled for the expenfes of his
houfehold, of which Ali Ibrahim Khan was appointed dewan
under Muzzuffir Jung. The Englifh chiefs lived on terms of
friendfhip and intimacy with thofe of this country, anxious to
obtain information of our laws and cuftoms, for the benefit of
themfelves and their fucceffors ; and every native officer, fearful
of being outdone in communication, was eager to gratify their

curiofity

a Two hundred and forty thoufand pounds.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

45 1

curiofityj but they reprefented for their own- intereft, the abufes
of our laws by oppreffive rulers, as eftablifhed cuftoms conform-
able to the genius of the people.

I myfelf was prefent at a court, when a fine was laid both
upon plaintiff and defendant by Raja Moorlydher. Mr. Rum-
bold, in whofe prefence this happened, and who was of a liberal
mind, aefirous of doing juftice, being aftonifhed at the decree,
obferved, that laying a fine on the perfon caft, might be a pu-
nifhment ufual in the country, but he could not fee the juftice
of exacting it from the fuccefsful party. The raja and other
officers replied, it was an offering of gratitude, and an ancient
eftablifhed ufage of the empire. Mr. Rumbold expreffed fur-
prize and difguft. The acquifition of wealth, however, is fo
alluring to mankind, that it is not furprizing if fuch infinuating
arguments fhould work fome effedt on the Englifh, whofe pro-
feffed objedt here is to raife a fortune ; but none of their chiefs
have as yet been guilty of any evil or difreputable adtion,
though from their different form of government in politics, ad-
mimftration of juftice, and the incapacity of their native ferv-
ants, fome people have fuffered. If they would perfonally
inveftigate the complaints of individuals, and their charadters,
the injured would be relieved from vexation. At length, the
Englifh becoming informed of feveral abufes of their Hindooftan <
deputies, began to interfere, and regulate affairs according to
their own opinions.

Mr. Verelft returning to England, Mr. Cartier fucceeded A. D. 1768.
him in the government. Obferving a deficiency of the reve-
nues, and anxious to acquire information of the particular modes
of colledtion and ufages of the country, he divided the pro-
vinces into feven diftridts, at each of which an Englifh council
was appointed, to infpedt and controul the zemindars and farmers.

K k k 2 Mr.

452

HISTORY OF BENGAL*'

Mr. Vanfittart, who was of great wifdom and forbearance,
having cleared himfelf of the accufations of his enemies in
Europe to the fatisfa&ion of the company, was requefted to
return to this country for the regulation of their affairs; but,
by the decree of providence, the veffel on which he embarked
was loft, without leaving a trace of her melancholy fate. Up-
on this, the company confulted on appointing a fucceffor, and
agreed, that after Mr. Vanfittart, no one was equal to the
A. D. 1772. office, but Mr. Haftings, at that time a member of the coun-
cil at Madrafs; who was accordingly ordered to affume the go-
vernment of Bengal, and Mr. Cartier, three months after his
arrival at Calcutta, refigned it to him. Mahummud Reza Khan
and Maharaja Shittabroy were ordered prifoners to Calcutta. I have
heard, that no orders from Europe had arrived to confine the
latter, but that Mr. John Graham, by his reprefentations, occa-
fioned him to fhare the difgrace of the former, whom he
wifhed to defend. Upon Mahummud Reza Khan’s departure,
Munny Begum became the diredtrefs of the navob’s houfehold,
and appointed her chief eunuch, Eatibar Ali Khan, deputy de-
wan, by whofe hands, numbers were oppreffed. Munny Begum,
though not of a noble family, poffeffes a found underftanding
and much refolution, and, had fhe a deputy of equal abilities,
is fully capable of conducting affairs. Though offended at Ma-
hummud Reza Khan, fhe generoufly tried every means in her
power to relieve him from his difgrace. Her behaviour was
manly in another inflance ; fhe would not join in the party of
general Clavering againft Mr. Haftings, though fubjeCt, by her
relidence, to much trouble.

Mr. Haftings, foon after his acceffion to the government,
repaired to Moorfhudabad, to regulate the affairs of the nizam-
ut ; w hen the allowance of the navob’s houfehold was reduced
from twenty four to fixteen lacs of rupees. Mubaric ad Dow-

lah

HISTORY OF BENGAL,

453

lah being a minor, Munny Begum was appointed to manage
his expenfes. The abovementioned allowance is not for the
fupport of the navob only, but for the families and dependants
of former Nazims. As his deputy, continually changing, dif-
burfes the whole, the latter are frequently oppreffed by delays
of payment, and deductions under various pretences ; fo that
many fuffer fuch mifery, as heaven avert from any of his crea-
tures. The navob and his immediate fervants attend not to
their complaints, though, if this fum was properly divided,
numbers might enjoy repofe under the Shadow of their libera-
lity ; but alas ! they wade lacs in prodigality and idle expenfe,
heedlefs of the fufferings of others.

Upon the governor’s return to Calcutta, the committee com-
menced an enquiry into the conduct of Mahummud Reza Khan
and Maharaja Shittabroy. As the latter had his accounts ad-
justed, and his conduct was free from blemiSh, he was fully
acquitted of all guilt, after an investigation of a year and fomc
months ; when the governor and all the committee, having
made many apologies, and Shewn him much kindnefs, restored
him to office, and gave him the following certificate ;

** The fufpicions, which for various reafons we had enter-
** tained of the integrity of Maharaja Shittabroy, after the moSt
“ minute and clofe enquiry, have been found ill-founded and
groundlefs, and we have proved his conduCt to be in every
“ point honourable and loyal to government.’*

The raja was alfo distinguished by a * khelaut on his leaving
the prefidency j but his acquittal could not reStore his health,
which had been much injured by grief and the unwholefome air
of Calcutta. He was met at Bhaugulpore by all the principal

inhabitants

* Honorary drefs.

454

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

inhabitants of Patna ; by fome, from real regard, and by others,
from the influence of his authority. When he reached his
home, he complained heavily to his friends of the conduit of
the Englifh, and with juilice, for a more able fervant than
Shittabroy was never employed by them or any other Hate j a
proper refpeCt to his great qualities was incumbent on his pa-
trons. Soon after his arrival, Mr. Haftings, who was on his
way to meet Shujah ad Dowlah at Banaras, flopping at Patna,
requefted the raja to accompany him; but he was too ill to
undertake the journey, and his diforder ending in a violent dy-
fentery, he died fhortly after the governor’s departure. Though
his opinions and thofe of his fon were more inclined to the
Mahummedan than the Hindoo religion, yet to fatisfy the fcruples
of his relations and caff, his corpfe was burned, according to
their cuftoms. Mr. Haftings, to convince the world that he
had no hatred to the father, appointed his fon Raja Callean
Sing to his office in the province, though very young, and of
a weak capacity, with the fame jaghire and falary. He alfo
fettled an additional penfion on the widow, mother to the young
raja.

Shittabroy was by caff a Koyt, and a native of Dhely ; in
his youth a fervant of Akka Solymaun, the favourite dependant
of Sumfam ad Dowlah, fon of Khan Dowraun, ameer al amra
to the emperor Mahummud Shaw. Upon the death of Sumfam
ad Dowlah, he obtained the office of imperial dewan at Patna,
and the direction of the lands of his late matter, for his fuc-
ceflor, in the province of Bahar. Attaching himfelf to the Eng-
lifh in the feveral revolutions, he became their chief advifer in
their connections with the country powers. He was an able
ftatefman, and underftood completely the direction of finance.
He poffefled many good qualities, and, in my humble opinion,

excelled

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

455

excelled all his contemporary chiefs in Hindooftan. "Though
properly a civilian, he was not deftitute of the military virtues
of valour and conduct. Though, from his influence with the
Englifh, he was at times the patron of the emperor, vizier, and
the chief nobles of Hindooftan, he was not haughty, or vain
of his power, but treated all ranks with affable refpeCt to their
birth and character, liftening patiently to the requefts of every
perfon. If reafonable, and within the compafs of his power to
grant, he complied without hefitation; or, if otherwife, refuted
in fuch a manner, as to gain the efteem of the petitioner. He
underftood well the duties of private life ; and was fo good an
ceconomift as to appear in fplendour without exceeding his in-
come. His prefents to his guefts of high rank were becoming
their dignity; and, upon feafons of feftivity in his family, the
public fhared the bounties of his table. His modefty and tem-
perance were remarkable, and alfo his forgivenefs of affronts,
when in his power to revenge them, often protecting thofe in
diftrefs, who had tried to prejudice the Englifh chiefs againft
him. His bounty to his old acquaintance in his lower for-
tunes at Dhely, was diftinguifhed, and his refpeCt and liberality
to perfons of learned or facred character among the Mahum-
medans, more extenfive than thofe of their own nobility. The
following is an inftance of his humility, and freedom from pride.

A Hindoo of his acquaintance, and confidential dependant of
Naggir Mul, dewan to a former emperor, coming on a pil-
grimage to Gyah, a celebrated place of devotion in the pro-
vince of Bahar, requefted a letter recommending him to Shittab-
roy from his matter ; but the dewan declined giving it, faying,
that he could not bear to addrefs him by his prefent high titles ;
and, fhould he omit them, it might give offence. Thefe words
coming to the ears of Shittabroy, when the perfon arrived at

Patna, ,

456

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

Patna, he treated him with the greateft attention, and at his
departure committed to his charge a letter for Naggir Mul, with '
a prefent of rich goods and other things amounting to ten thou-
fand rupees ; humbly requeuing, that he would now and then
remember his abfent fervant with a line, when any of his de-
pendants fhould vifit Patna. Naggir Mul was covered with
confufion and regret at his omiflion. He immediately wrote a
letter of apology to the raja for his behaviour ; and praiflng him
among his friends, faid, “ Shittabroy has overcome me by his
ft wifdom and politenefs.”

During a the great famine, Shittabroy fent for large quan-
tities of grain from Banaras, which he fold out at prime
coil ; and he had a fleet of boats conftantly employed between
Banaras and Patna to bring fupplies. Every day, during the fcar-
city, he diftributed victuals and money to many thoufand poor
at four appointed places in the city, as did alfo the Englifh and
Dutch chiefs, fo that a great multitude was faved from perifh-
ing, by their bounty. The fame precautions were not ufed at
Moorlhudabad, and the fcarcity was made matter of accufation
againft Mahummud Reza Khan j but God only knows the hearts
of his creatures. Shittabroy introduced into his province the
cultivation of many fruits from Cabul and the more northern
diftritts, with fuch fuccefs, that grapes and oranges are now
cheap and common in the markets of Patna.

a It was for fuppofed monopoly and extortion, that Shittabroy was ordered
by the directors of the company in England to undergo a trial in Calcutta;
and as it was rumoured that their fervants in India were partners with him and
Mahummud Reza Khan in the oppreffion of the people, Mr. Haftings and the
council were obliged, in contradiftion to their better knowledge of circumftances,
to order them to the prefidency, where they were tried, and juftly acquitted with
honour.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

457

He had but two blemilhes in his character: One, his bur-
dening the farmer deficient in payment with more a mohufiiils
than were neceflary, for his own advantage; and the other, ob-
taining fums frequently from the jaghiredars, by pretending that
the Englifh chiefs intended b infpedting their titles, but that he
could prevent it by a prefent. For thefe exactions, he himfelf
in the end fuifered the oppreflion of c mohufiuls from thofe, for
whofe advantage he had impofed them on his countrymen ; and,
through grief for his difgrace, retired to another world. His
condition there God only knows ; but the prophet of God has
declared, that his mercy and forbearance exceed the crimes of
man.

Mahummud Reza Khan, upon the enquiry into his conduct,
was dei'erted by all his dependants, except Ali Ibrahim Khan ;
who, though newly entered into office, and unconcerned in the
tranfa&ions of former years, yet, grateful to his patron, under-
Vo l. II. L 1 1 took

3 Bailiffs, who receive a daily allowance from the debtor, while they attend
him for the liquidation of his debt. 1 heir numbers are more or lefs, accord-
ing to the rank and power of the debtor. Many of the zemindars and renters
Who hold large diftricSts, keep up an armed force, and when they are deficient in
their rents, it is neceffary to have many perLns ftationed over them to prevent
their efcape or rebellion.

b Many of the jaghiredars, or poffeflors of lands and penfions on the reve-
' nues, certainly hold them on forged grants, or grants given to unworthy perfons,
'This is well known to the native officers, who, it is to be feared, make a per-
quifite by keeping fuch perfons in alarm of an infpecftion of their titles. The
Englifh, when they obtained the colle&ion of the revenues, left all penfioners in
poffeflion of their lands and falaries ; and there is no doubt but this indul-
gence was much abufed ; but to attempt to re&ify the abufe now would be
tyranny, fo much time having elapfed, that it would be impoffible to diftinguifh.
the forged grants from the true, the befiowers and the obliged being all dead,
records loft in the revolutions of government, and the prefent pofleffors, at
leaft innocent of fraud

c Alluding to his being under a guard during his trial.

A.D. 2774*

453

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

took his defence and in a fhort time made himfelf matter of the
various accounts, and cleared up his conduct to the fatisfadtion
of the council. He was fet at liberty, and the guards removed
from his houfes at Moorfhudabad and Calcutta. He would not,
however, return to the former, hoping, like Shittabroy, to be
again rettored to office j and therefore continued at the latter
city, where the native dependants of adminittration flattered him
for his money with favourable reports of the difpofltions of their
matters towards him. One day he was told a certain counfel-
lor had exprefled himfelf kindly another day, that his reappoint-
ment was under conflderation ; and a third, that orders for it
were difpatched from Europe. To thefe wretches he made con-
flderable prefents in hand, and promifes of indulgence, when
he fhould regain his power. By fuch imprudence and folly he
incurred large debts.

At this crifis of his affairs, general Clavering, colonel Mon-
fon, and Mr. Francis arrived from Europe, as members of govern-
ment, and alfo to inveftigate the conduct of the late adminiftra-
tion, of whom only Mr. Haftings and Mr. Barwell were continued
in office. As thefe three gentlemen Were fent by the king and
company to explore the faults of the governor and his
colleagues, general Clavering being of high rank in Europe, a
fervant of the king, and intended to fucceed to the chair, Mr.
Monfon to the command of the army, and Mr. Francis to rife
in council, they created a wonderful awe and refpedt. They
would not receive nuzzars, a cuftom peculiar to Hindooflan, nor
even accept a prefent of fruit from any one. They invited the
enemies of the governor to join them, and Nundcomar, who
had been rejected by Mr. Vanfittart and lord Clive, alfo Mr.
Haftings, at this time became their confidant and moft favoured
dependant. Through him many felf-interefted and feditious per-
fons, in hopes of acquiring power, joined themfelves to the

. * general s

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

general and his friends. The inveftigation of the governor’s private
tranfadtions began, and the ftrongefl difference of opinion in coun-
cil prevailed j which not only affedted the dependants of either
party, but the affairs of the three provinces were thrown into
confufion by the divifions of government. The general and Mr.
Barwell even fought with piftols, according to the cufloms of
their nation. The general having a majority over the gover-
nor and Mr. Barwell, affairs were conduced moftly agreeable to
the opinion of his party. Mr. Goring was fent to Moorfhud-
abad, Mr. Fowke to Banaras, and Mr. Briflow to Lucnow.

Mubaric ad Dowlah and his mother, who were governed by
Munny Begum, having applied to the general through Mr.

Goring, they became the managers of the nizamut, and were

apparently freed from her controul, but, as the Begum pof-

feffed great fortitude and wealth, fhe threatened the navob to
make the Englifh her heirs in cafe he fhould offend her ; fo that
in effect fhe preferved her power. In fadt, Mubaric ad Dowlah
is incapable of publick bufinefs. No perfon dreads his anger,
nor hopes advantage from his patronage ; nor is he at all am-
bitious of power, only requiring the undiflurbed enjoyment of
his penfion and pleafures.

During thefe difputes, were brought to light the crimes of
Nundcomar. He was convidted of a forgery of the name of
Bollakee Dufs, and condemned to fuffer death. He was a wicked,
deceitful, vain-glorious perfon, inimical to all mankind, even to
thofe who had conferred obligations upon him, and if any one tri-
vially offended him, never refted till he had effedted his ruin. As his
friends had allured him that no one could do him injury, and told
him not to be alarmed though he might be led to the foot of the
gallows ; fo that he might fecurely ule every means to prove the
governor’s delinquency, he, from his hatred, and confidence in the

general’s

» Navob’s affairs.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

general’s promifes, continued to accufe him; but Mr. Haftings
refuted all his allegations. The guilt of Nundcomar being fully
proved, he was hanged at the appointed place of execution.
His treafure and effeds were given up to his fon. It is laid,
there were fifty two a lacks of rupees in money, and about the
fame amount in jewels and rich goods. In his houfe were found
the feals of feveral eminent perfons, which he had forged; fo
that his wicked arts became publickly known.

When it was univerfally believed that the general’s party
was the ftrongeft, Mahummud Reza Khan, who was rafh and
unfteady, became defirous of acquiring his patronage. Ali Ibra-
him Khan advifed him to remain attached to the governor,
who had protected his life, fortune, and reputation ; obferving,
that if Mr. Haftings fhould prevail, he would no doubt reward
his fidelity, and even if the general fhould fucceed, as he
had done him no injury, he could not but refped his for-
titude and honour. Mahummud Reza Khan, anxious to be
reftored to office, negleded this advice, and courted the general,
who gave him the deputation of Mubaric ad Dowlah, and the
fuperin tendance of the native criminal courts of juftice. Khe-
lauts were conferred upon himfelf, his fons, and dependants,
when he returned to Moorfhudabad, and fhortly after quarrelled
with Ali Ibrahim Khan, whofe abilities and fidelity had refcued
him from deftrudion.

The difputes in council continued unremitting for three years.
In the latter year, the general received intelligence from Eu-
rope, that Mr. Haftings was recalled ; when, without waiting
for the difclofure of the pacquets, he affumed the govern-
ment, but was oppofed by Mr. Haftings; upon which the
claims of both parties were referred to the opinions of the

judges,

* Five hundred and twenty thoufand pounds fterling.

HISTORY OF BENGAL.

461

judges, who decided in favour of Mr. Haftings. The general
foon after was taken ill, and died of a dyfentery, fuppofed to
have proceeded from grief and difappointment. After his death,
many of his dependants were removed from office, and fucceeded
by thofe of the governor. Mahummud Reza was fucceeded by
Suddur al Huk Khan, and Raja Goordafs, fon of Nundcomar
was appointed dewan to Mubaric ad Dowlah ; but the former
dying foon after his promotion, the office for fome time re-
mained vacant, till at length, the governor general and Mr.

Francis coaleicing, Mahummud Reza Khan was at the deiire A. D. 1780.
of the latter reftored to his employments.

FINIS.

I X3 3 Of the Rohilla war in 1774, a juft account has already
been publiihed by the late captain Charles Hamilton, the truly
learned editor of the Hedaya, a code of Mahummedan Laws.
It has therefore here been but curforily mentioned. Of the in-
vafion of Hyder Alee, I have not feen any refpecftable account
by a native of India, nor of the rebellion of Cheyt Sing, zemin-
dar of Banaras, or the tranfadtions of the Britiffi, later than the
period at which I have concluded this volume ; and as my de-
sign was to give only the reports of native writers on the affairs
of Hindooftan, I judged it right to ftop my pen, when they
could not be procured.

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