LET the renowned in valour, of high rank, chief of faithful dependants, Mahabut Khan, supported and honoured by the imperial bounty—know—that from the instability of fortune, and the treachery of rebels,* fatal injuries have occurred to our authority, of which, probably, he has already heard; also of the unworthy conduct they have exercised, and still pursue.
My oppressed son, Dara Shekkoh, since his defeat has moved towards Lahore; and I know not in this vain world a faithful friend, who, regardless of personal advantages, consults only true honour, except yourself, the worthy son of the great Mahabut Khan. To you, therefore, I disclose the sorrows of my mind, and look for their cure.
When the Khorasaunees* had surrounded my father Jehaungeer (now in paradise), and deprived him of power; from what distance, and with what rapidity, did not Mahabut Khan hasten to relieve him from the hands of his infernal enemies! Having kept him some time under his own controul, he gave him renovated power on the throne of empire, and rescued me from the cell of wretchedness and path of trouble, after my father’s death, conducting me to the capital.*
The present crisis of affairs is more difficult, and there is no nobleman, but yourself, of experienced conduct and valour, worthy to be intrusted with such important concerns. My beloved Dara will halt at Lahore, where there is no want of money, men, and horses. Can it possibly happen, that Mahabut Khan, at dread of whom mortals tremble, while his sovereign Shaw Jehaun is in the hands of traitors, will not fly to his relief, bring the two undutiful rebels (his sons) to the deserved punishment of their actions, and rescue his master from a prison? Surely he will feel that virtuous fame is superior to the treasures of Karoon,* and all the honours of an unstable world. I expect this from you, as heroes will thus act.
I have written to my son to trust himself with you, as the restorer of his fortunes, and my deliverer. This world is unsteady, and never was constant to any one; but a good name will always be recorded on the pages of time. How can it be, that Mahabut Khan should bear to see his sovereign in confinement? and the wretch, who spread the snares of treason, enjoying the throne of empire! If it be possible that you, so distinguished in the state, should connive at such treachery, remember, the day of judgment is near, and I shall be your accuser.