Babur put the same question a third time, adding that he could not dispose of the matter without knowing more. Then Ahmad opened the mouth of praise, expatiated on Babur's excellencies and said that in this great assemblage many of his subjects were looking on to see the shooting ; that his jerkin being very thick, the arrow might not pierce it; the shot might fail and the spectators blame the Padshah for missing his mark ; for these reasons he had thought it best to bare his breast. Babur was so pleased by this reply thai he resolved to pardon Ahmad at once, and laid down his bow.
Said he to Ahmad, " What sort of man is Buhlul Ludi ? " " A giver of horses," said Ahmad.
" And of what sort his son Sikandar ?" "A giver of robes."
"And of what sort Is-Babur?" "He," said Ahmad, "is a giver of heads."
" Then," rejoined Babur, " I give you yours."
The Padshah now became quite friendly with Ahmad, came down from his throne, took him by the hand and led him into another room where they d?ank together. Three times did Baburshave his cup filled, and after drinking a portion, give the rest to Ahmad. At length the wine mounted to Babur's head ; he grew merry and began to dance. Meantime Ahmad's musician played and Ahmad who knew Persian well, poured out an eloquent harangue. When Babur had danced for some time, he held out his hands to Ahmad for a reward {bakhshish), saying, " I am your performer." Three times did he open his hands, and thrice did Ahmad, with a profound reverence, drop a gold coin into them. Babur took the coins, each time placing his hand on his head. He then took off his robe and gave it to Ahmad ; Ahmad took off his own coat, gave it to Adu the musician, and put on what the Padshah had given.
Ahmad returned safe to his tribe. He declined a second' invitation to Kabul, and sent in his stead his brother Shah Mansur. Mansur received speedy dismissal as Babur was displeased at Ahmad's not coming. On his return to his tribe Mansur advised them to retire to the mountains and make a strong sangur. This they did ; as foretold, Babur came into their country with a large army. He devastated their lands
