200 APPENDIX I

in valour and daring, so he resolved to take up his abode there. He expressed his wish to the land-holder of the place, but it was refused. Afterward he seized an opportunity of seeking assistance from the King of Delhi, and, having collected some of his brethren, he overpowered the land-holder and took possession of the village. He extended his power over other villages around, and in the end he was master of several sub- districts and commander of an armed force. When he died, his authority descended to his grand- son, who saw how valuable a fortress would be as a place of safety for his family and dependents. Asir, which is situated on the top of a hill, was at that time an inhabited place. He contrived by various stratagems to obtain this place from the land-holder who possessed it, and fortified it strongly. He then assumed the name of ruler, and at length the whole country of Khandesh, about 150 leagues in length and fifty in breadth, came under his sway. These rulers acted so wisely and care- fully that the kings of Delhi did not interfere with them. When the government came to Raja Ali Khan, he showed himself a man of great administrative pow- ers, and it is probable that no one of the dynasty had been his equal in intelligence and ability. People of neighbouring and distant countries had been induced by his just and generous rule to take up their abode in his country. Among the best proofs of his intelli- gence was his loyalty to the Imperial throne, his obedi- ence, and the magnificence of his offerings, in all which ho excelled the other princes of the region.