1879.1 or a History of Hamir, prince of Ranthambor. 199 
in time and get rid of the Sheik as soon as you can. See, Ravana con- 
quered the three worlds and had perfect control over the gods, men and 
serpents; but when he made Raghunath his enemy, the splendid and 
strong fort of Lankd was sacked, burnt and pulled in the dust. Who can 
subdue Ala-uddin P If you think you can, you will certainly be destroyed.” 
Hamir.—‘O herald, I can never lie. See what will be the condition 
of that poor, deserted man, if I deny him protection. I will draw my 
sword in the teeth of all difficulties, fight with Alé-uddin and crush his 
pride. Either IJ shall be transported to heaven a little early, or continue 
reigning in my fort of Ranthambor. Go, thou messenger, and tell the 
emperor that the Sheik is safe under the roof of Hamir Chohan, and that 
preparations for war are being made within the fort.” 
The herald went to Dehli and, having joined his hands and bowed down 
to Ala-uddin, thus prayed, “ Dreaded Majesty, the Sheik Muhammad Shah 
wandered far and wide, over the northern, the eastern and the southern 
parts of India, but nowhere did he find shelter. At last he went to Ran- 
thambor and humbly prayed to the Rao of that place, who took pity on him 
and promised him safe-keeping within the walls of his fort.” 
Vazir Mihram Khin.—* Never has the Rado done so. How can he, a 
vassal to his Majesty, afford house and shelter to one banished the domini- 
ons of his lord and master ? Never say such words again.” 
Herald.—“ Vazir, my words are not false, but true to the letter.”’ 
Ald-uddin.—Write a firman to Hamir, and then you shall be able to 
know whether he speaks the truth or falsehood. 
Accordingly a firman was written and sent by the same herald to 
Ranthambor. 
Firman.—‘ Hamir, be not obstinate ; yield; do not give asylum to a 
thief. Iam called the master of Dehli, and you are a mere Réo. What 
can you hope to gain by incurring my displeasure P Why make yourself 
culpable ? Take as much land and gold as you wish for. Send back the 
criminal to me, the moment you read this firman.” 
Hamir’s reply.— Attack me, fall upon me, but I will never send you 
Muhammad Shah. I have promised him shelter, and for the monarchy of 
_ all the world, I will never break my word.” 
The emperor’s blood boiled. He rebuked the Vazir for denying the 
truth of the herald’s statements. Another fivman was written and sent to 
the Rao. 
Firman.—* How many forts, have you, Hamir, and how strong are they, 
that you are so proud and stubborn? Consider, know that I ama gifted 
hero. Send the Sheik. Be reasonable.” 
Hamir’s reply.—* Your Majesty need not send meso many jfirmans. 
