YOUR letter, enclosing a paper, containing the demands of the people of the fort, has been received; and, in consequence thereof, we now transmit to you, in answer to these demands, an engagement from us to Kâlâ Pundit.* We also enclose three letters for Mahommed Ali and the other Sipahdârs.
The aforesaid Pundit has, for his greater satisfaction [or security], demanded the sanction of oaths, &c. [to our engagements]. But what is the use of oaths on this occasion? You must, conjointly with Kumrûddeen, by every possible artifice and deceit, persuade the besieged to evacuate the fort.