106 HISTORY OF AURANGZIB. [CHAP. V. Day after day a strenuous fight had to be main- tained against the tireless and mobile enemy, while hunger raged in the Imperial ranks. The soldiers were ever on the move, and food could be cooked only on the backs of the marching elephants! Bread sold at one rupee or even two rupees a piece and water was equally dear. Happy were those who could get the necessaries of life even at this price, for there was not enough for all. Such was the condition of the Prince's personal following. The lot of the common soldiers may be imagined. But in the midst of all this hardship and danger, Aurangzib's firmness and control prevented any slackness or disorder; his watchful eye and active body hastened to the succour of every weak spot, and his wisdom and courage brought the to safety.** army back Evil as was the plight of the Mughal army, Aurangzi b's splendid courage. the enemy were worse off. Aurangzib's grim tenacity had gained its object. Abdul Aziz now desired to make peace. His hope of crush- ing Aurangzib had failed. He had personally witnessed a striking proof of the Prince's cool courage; for, one day the hour of evening prayer
- Khafi Khan, i. 668 and 669. Howorth (752) says, "The
devastation caused such a famine that an ass's load of corn cost 1000 florins." Digitized by Microsoft Ⓡ
