of November). Aurangzib continued the system
eastwards to his own seat of government, and
also proposed to Shuja a similar regular and joint
service for the prompt conveyance of letters,—his men supplying the relays of runners from Aurangabad to the frontier of Orissa, and Shuja's servants taking charge of it from there to Raj-mahal. Each prince also sent confidential agents to the Courts of the other two.[1] Where hearts are set on one purpose, an agreement is soon
arrived at. Correspondence with Shuja was
slow and interrupted owing to the immense distance and lack of roads, and hence only a general agreement was formed with him. But
between Aurangzib and Murad letters passed
quickly, and the two soon matured a plan of
concerted action. For secrecy of correspondence
Aurangzib sent to Murad as early as 23rd October
the key to a cypher to be used in future.[2] From
the very beginning Murad places himself helplessly under Aurangzib's guidance. In letter
after letter he asks for his brother's advice as to
his own future steps, and writes, "I am ready
to advance. Inform me of your wishes and I
shall act accordingly." Indeed so wholly did Murad enter into Aurangzib's policy of throwing
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HISTORY OF AURANGZIB.
[CHAP. XIII.