(This letter was written in the enlightened writing in the state of death).
May peace be upon you and upon those who are near you. Old age arrived and weakness became strong (i.e., increased). Strength departed from the limbs. I came alone (in this world) and I go as a stranger (to the next world). I am unconscious about myself as to who I am and of what use I am. Time passed away without any devotion (to God). (Now) I have (only) to lament this passing away of time without any devotion. I was devoid of administrative (tact) and care for the welfare of the people. (My) dear life has been spent in vain. God is present in this world but I do not see Him. Life is not constant, and there is no sign visible of the past life; and there is no hope of a future life. Fever has left me (on account of being ashamed of me). Only the skin is left (i.e., there is no flesh upon my body, i.e., I am very weak). Though (my) son Kám Bakhsha* is gone to Bijápūr,* he is near me. And, you, my exalted son (i. e., A’azam), are still nearer (to me—being in Málwá). The most favourite (son) Sháh Álam* is at a greater distance than all (sons—i. e., at Cábūl). (My) grandson Muhammad A’azim* is gone, through the will of God, to the frontier of India (i. e., near Cábūl). The whole (royal) army (in the Deccan) is confused and confounded. The army is restless like me, who have selected loneliness from God (i. e., who will not be accepted by God in paradise), and who am in perturbation, and who am restless like mercury. (But) the army does not understand that there is a greater master (i. e., God). I did not bring anything with me (in this world, i.e., I came here naked); (but now) I carry (with me) the fruits of sins (in the next world). I do not know in what punishment I shall be involved (there). Though I have strong hope in the favours and mercy (of God), my actions do not allow me to think over (i.e., I am afraid on account of my actions). I am unconscious of myself. (Verse) “What is done is done. I have steered the boat (of my life) in the sea (of nonentity—i.e., now I am dying)”. Though (my) subjects will be protected by God, it is necessary for (my) sons to cast their look on outward circumstances that the people of God (i.e., subjects) and (especially) the Mohemadans may not be killed unjustly. Present my last good wishes to the grandson Bahádūr* whom I did not see at the time of his departure. I have (still) another desire (to make to you). Though outwardly the Begum* is grieved, God is her protector. The short-sightedness of women has no fruit except disappointment. Good bye; good bye; good bye.