Page:History of Aurangzib (based on original sources) Vol 1.djvu/391

CHAP. XIV.] ing him for his entire devotion to his interests, and placing him above all his other followers:—

"I know you are faithful to your word. Your intention in going to Hindustan was and is no other than to increase my power and grandeur and to make me succeed in my heart's desire. You have often said within my hearing, 'I wish for Hfe only that I may see the master of mankind (=Aurangzib) on the throne; and in realising this aim I value not my life or property.' Now is the time to display your devotion. I do not need others in making the necessary equipment for this business, while you are alive. I care not for those (officers) who have been estranged from me by reason of my partiality to you. Come to me, so that with your advice I may engage in preparations for the work of gaining the crown."

Mir Jumla returned to Aurangabad about ist January, 1658, avowing that he was going to Agra to vi^ait on the Emperor. But a plot had been already contrived between him and Aurangzib, and a little play was acted to save the Mir's family at the capital from Dara's vengeance. Mir Jumla feigned fear of Aurangzib's intentions and refused to see him, saying, "As I have been ordered by the Emperor to go to him, I have no choice but to

obey. Aurangzib sent him a friendly message through his son Muhammad Sultan, "to drive all suspicion out of his mind" and to