RIVAL HOUSES
deserved well of the Empire, and the great Emperor does not forget those who serve him well."
"Pardon for my past offence is the boon I seek, mighty Raja. Pardon for serving the Afghan House which my fathers served for generations."
"I follow you not, Nobo Kumar," responded the Raja. "Faithful service to your old Ruler, until he ceded Bengal to the Emperor, is an act which merits reward and not pardon. I am not aware that the great Emperor has punished any Zemindar for being faithful to their old King."
Nobo Kumar did not know what to answer, but the precious moments were slipping by, and other candidates for reward were waiting. Gokul Das had seen enough of Raja Todar Mull to know how to plead before him. He spoke humbly, but with absolute sincerity and straightforwardness.
"My master bids me say, great Raja, that his offence goes further. When Dayud Khan broke his word of honour and rose against the Emperor again, my master forgot his allegiance to the Emperor, and joined Dayud Khan once more at Akmahal."
The Raja's brow was clouded. "Why, that was treachery," he muttered in his deep voice, "and Dayud Khan lost his head for his treachery."
"So he did, most noble Raja, and my master does not seek to screen his offence. But some allowance the generous Emperor may be inclined to make for the blind and ardent faithfulness of a House which served the Afghan Dynasty for over three hundred years. Be generous, noble Raja, and make that House as zealous and faithful in the service of the Mogul Dynasty."
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