COUNCIL CHAMBER
would give ten years of my life to have met him once again face to face before he died, for there was an old debt to repay which a Rajput never forgets. But Pratap Singh is dead, and may the soul of a brave man rest in peace."
Akbar knew something of Rajput feuds and hatreds as he knew of Rajput heroism, and he understood the feelings of Raja Man Singh. But he never encouraged these feuds, and it was the endeavour of his life to maintain the integrity and virtual independence of the Rajput States while requiring homage and service in the cause of the Empire. Pratap Singh alone had refused this homage, but partly from a generous appreciation of his heroism, partly from entanglements in other parts of the Empire, and partly also to conciliate his Hindu subjects, Akbar ceased in the closing years of his reign to proceed actively against Mewar.
"Chitore, the capital of Mewar, is mine," said Akbar, "and Pratap Singh's son is dwelling in the new town of Udaipur, by the side of a lake enclosed by inaccessible hills. Let him be in peace. I have no desire to carry on the war after his brave father is gone."
Man Singh's face was flushed with anger, the eyes of Prithwi Raj sparkled with joy.
"More than this, I desire to send a message of my good-will to the young Prince of Mewar, a message of condolence on the death of his father. Sooner or later the Prince will see the unwisdom of his father's ways, and will join the other brave Rajput Chiefs in common defence of a common Empire. I have no desire to hasten that time, and meanwhile let there be peace in the land."
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