Lachmi Bai, Rani of Jhansi: The Jeanne D'Arc of India Page 9

  Chapter VIII

  _THE DARBAR_

  The great hall of the palace presented a splendid, an imposingspectacle. Its pillars were decorated with banners and trophies,its walls hung with rich draperies from the looms of Kashmir andSind. At the further end a throne of ivory inlaid with silver andmother-of-pearl, was placed under a gorgeous canopy. It stood upon aplatform approached by a short flight of steps, covered with a Benarescarpet of black velvet embroidered with gold thread. The subdued light,the atmosphere of antiquity, that pervaded the audience chamber of theRani of Jhansi, enforced that reverential feeling, by which the humanvoice naturally sinks into a whisper.

  As yet the throne was unoccupied.

  In the body of the hall were groups of magnificently attired maharajas,rajas, and military officers, awaiting the entrance of the Rani.Diamonds blazed in turbans of many colors, ropes of pearls hung abouttheir necks, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires, scintillated in barbaricprofusion amid the gold embroidery of their robes of state.

  Amid these dazzling personages, Ahmad Khan, the humble servant of God,was a conspicuous figure by the simplicity of his martial uniform. Inhis new character he had evidently curbed his passion for outwarddisplay. In place of jewels he had mounted a green badge in his turban,as a sign that he was one among the Faithful who had obeyed thecommandment of the Prophet and made the pilgrimage to the Holy City.Slung from his shoulder was a plain leather band suspending a swordencased, also in a plain leather sheath. But the sword was as sharp asthe arm was strong to wield it. He gazed proudly round upon the throng.Was there any man who cherished evil in his heart? If so, his enemy wascareful to display no outward sign of animosity.

  Indeed, it was the knowledge that this awe inspiring warrior had openlyespoused the Rani's cause, the report of his descent upon Sadescheo,carried swiftly to the boundaries of the state, that had brought manywavering nobles in haste to tender their allegiance at the first_Darbar_ of the Rani.

  Among the last to enter the hall before the hour set for the councilwas Prasad Singh. He had undoubtedly spent much time and thought inarraying his handsome form to striking advantage. A diamond aigretterose from the folds of his turban directly above his forehead. A collarof emeralds encircled his neck, his long outer garment was stiff withembroidery, the velvet scabbard of his sword was encrusted with gems.

  Ahmad who seemed to have been watching for Prasad, at once strode tothe Hindu noble's side and greeted him with every outward mark offriendship.

  He drew Prasad apart and spoke in an undertone to avoid being overheard.

  "This is thy day, O Prasad," he said congratulatingly. "Thou wiltbe reckoned as among the most fortunate of men. Thou mayest preparethyself to receive the felicitations of both those who wish thee welland those who envy thee."

  Prasad returned the Mohammedan's salutation responsively.

  "What did the Rani say," he asked, "when thou spoke to her of me"?

  "What could she say," replied Ahmad, in a tone as if he had advocatedthe other's cause so well that there could be but one conclusion drawn."What could she say! I swear never did eloquence so flow from my tonguein any man's behalf, as it did for thee, my Prasad. I vowed to the FairOne that the appointment thou seekest should by every right be thine.Upon the Holy Book I swore that but for thy dash and bravery, even thewar scarred veteran, Ahmad Khan, might have been compelled to turnhis back before the fury of that night of storm, and the strength ofSadescheo's frowning walls."

  Prasad's gratitude manifested itself in a warm tribute to the other'sfriendship.

  "But," he protested with a slight accent of concern, "I fear thoumayest have performed thy task too well, O Ahmad."

  "Not I," returned the other. "Fear not that one who has trod thepavement of the Afghan court has not learned to pick his way mostwarily. Be assured thy desire is already granted."

  A sound of distant music broke upon their ears.

  "Hark"! enjoined the Mohammedan in a whisper. "Hark! The Rani cometh to_Darbar_."

  As the music drew nearer the nobles ranged themselves on either sideof the hall leaving a passage in the center for the Rani and herattendants to approach the throne. A profound silence fell upon thebrilliant assembly.

  Nearer rolled the sound of an inspiriting martial air. Presently amida loud clash of cymbals and the beat of drums, the foremost of theprocession swept into the hall. Fans of peacock feathers waved aloft,emblems of state were borne before her to whom all eyes were directed.

  "The Rani, the Rani," passed in an impressive whisper from mouth tomouth. In turn, each of the nobles made a low obeisance.

  She walked with a stately, measured pace, a little apart from therest of her suite. As she moved along the human aisle, the earnestexpression on her beautiful features gathered an abstracted look,as if the thunder of the music crashing upward to the roof, carriedher vision beyond the brilliant spectacle of the moment, to someperspective scene yet to be unfolded.

  For the occasion she had robed herself with great magnificence afterthe Mohammedan rather than the Hindu fashion of ladies of high rank.Her reason was, perhaps, that it afforded her a better means ofimpressing those to whom a sumptuous display of jewels and fine raimentformed a considerable part of their existence.

  In place of the simple, graceful _sari_, she wore an outer garment ofscarlet cloth of gold, disclosing beneath, silken skirts of delicatehues and of such filmy texture that one might have supposed it was by amiracle the intricate embroidery of pearls had been stitched upon thematerial. Upon her head there rested lightly a cap of scarlet velvetset with pearls, that contrasted with the dark color of her gatheredtresses. Pearls, lustrous, priceless pearls, adorned her neck, herears, even her slippers. Upon her fingers, diamonds of Golconda servedto draw attention to the symmetry of her hands.

  "In the Paradise of the Prophet," murmured Ahmad as she passed, "couldthere be found such a one"?

  Following in the Rani's train, the worthy secretary, Bipin Dat, marchedwith a lofty air, as if he trod upon the necks of the nobles present.His glance chanced to rest upon Prasad Singh. An inward tremor causedhis spirit swiftly to descend to earth.

  He hastily grasped a talisman that he had purchased from his friend theastrologer at great cost, and muttered a prayer.

  "May holy Devi protect her servant from the accursed designs of theevil one."

  The Rani approached the throne and seated herself with quiet dignity.On her right, the aged man, to whom she had accorded so great honor onthe previous day, took up his station. Behind her, grouped themselvesthe personal retinue of her court.

  The music ceased. Amid the silence which ensued, Ahmad Khan strodeforward to the lowest step of the throne. He _salaamed_ thrice beforethe Rani, then turned, and in a loud voice proclaimed her title.

  "Behold," he cried. "The Pearl of Jhansi, the noblest of our Queens.Long live the fair Rani, Lachmi Bai."

  The nobles gravely echoed the Mohammedan's salutation.

  Then, one by one, they came forward, and were in customary formpresented. They returned after the ceremony to chairs of state, or toseats upon the rugs spread on either side of the throne.

  For each she found a suitable expression of greeting, but to Prasad shespoke in a gentler tone, and bade him take a place of honor at her hand.

  "What did I tell thee," whispered Ahmad aside to him.

  The Mohammedan had also been similarly favored by the Rani.

  "What did I tell thee, friend. But I do not blame thy qualms. Loverlike, thou canst not see a flower open until it is in full blossom."

  A smile of gratification lit up Prasad's face, clouded for a moment asthe Rani singled out the young Dost Ali, to stand upon the dais.

  The presentations over, the Rani then rose to address the gathering.She spoke quietly but in her voice there was an unmistakable note ofauthority. It penetrated clearly to the furthest recesses of the hall.

  First, she graciously thanked the nobles for their response to hersummons to the _Darbar_, and their spontaneous
recognition of hersovereignty. In return she assured them that her one aim was to promotethe welfare of her state and people, that to everyone should be securedjustice in his person and property.

  "I who had suffered so much in that respect," she cried, "can never beunmindful of the misfortunes of others."

  She then proceeded to confirm the nobles in all their ancient rightsand privileges, and reviewed the situation as it related to the causeof India as against that of the Foreigners. The news from Delhi, sheregretted to inform them, was unsatisfactory. Disrupted by internaldissension, the position of Bahadur Shah was fast becoming desperate,in the face of the investment of the city by the Foreigners. It wassurely a warning to them in Jhansi, she declared emphatically, tosubmerge all personal animosities in the common object of defendingto the death, the freedom they had regained with so much difficulty.She had, the Rani further related, dispatched trustworthy messengersto urge speedy action, on behalf of the cause, upon the powerfulMaharajas, Gaekwar of Baroda, Sindhia of Gwalior, and the greatMohammedan Nizam of Haidarabad. There was little reason to doubt thatif they could only be persuaded to follow the unmistakable sympathy oftheir troops and people, Delhi might yet be preserved to the Emperor,and the Foreigners driven into the sea.

  "But, my Lords," she cried, "we, at any rate, must prepare ourselvesto defend the State of Jhansi against enemies from whatever directionthey may come. The fortresses that have fallen into decay under thedominion of the Foreigners must be repaired speedily. New cannon mustbe cast forthwith and mounted on the walls. Ammunition and stores ofgrain above all our likely needs accumulated, and more troops raised toguard the passes. With your loyal co-operation, I have no doubt thisnecessary condition of affairs may be brought about with little wasteof time."

  The Rani paused for a short space; an interval that was utilized by herhearers in expressing their approval of her words.

  At the commencement of her address they were impressed by her beautyand dignity; but as she proceeded amazement at her clear perceptionof the danger and needs of their position, gave place to all otherfeelings. More than one exclaimed:

  "Truly the voice of Lachmi Bai is that of a great Rani."

  With a motion of her hand she regained their attention, and continued:

  "My Lords," she said. "To direct our best efforts for the end I haveexplained, there must above all things be established a firm centralgovernment in Jhansi. Not that I aspire to deprive any noble of hisrule within his own district, but all authority must emanate from thethrone it is mine by right to occupy. For this purpose certain officersof government must be appointed."

  Ahmad's countenance remained impassive, while Prasad's gathered a lookof eager expectancy.

  "It is," the Rani continued, "partly to gain your approval of suchappointments that I have called you to this _Darbar_. By such action, Itrust, no jealousies will be aroused, no mistakes made that will stirup internal discord."

  She paused for a moment, but as the countenances of the nobles thus farindicated approval of her words, she resumed.

  "First, it is my desire that my honored _Guru_ present, whose advicehath ever been of great benefit to me since my childhood, shall occupythe office of minister of state. In choosing him, you all know I ambut following many ancient precedents, whereby _Gurus_ of kings andprinces have, by their wisdom, added luster to the crowns worn by theirgodchildren. Have I your approval of the appointment"?

  Perhaps for the reason that no one particularly aspired to the office,perhaps because they might have thought there was little to be fearedin the person of the venerable form at the Rani's side, the reply cameunanimously, that the Rani's worthy _Guru_ should be appointed herminister of state.

  "It is well, my lords," she cried. "Now to a more difficult matter. Itmust be known to you all that an army without a chief commander, whoseorders must be obeyed by everyone without question, is a mere rabblein the face of the enemy. But the difficulty in Jhansi is, that allmy officers are so brave and competent, that to single one out fromamongst the others for the high honor in my gift, is an impossibility.I have, therefore, to suggest a remedy in this way."

  She moved forward to the edge of the dais and stood before them, amajestic figure.

  "My Lords," she cried, stretching forth an arm. "I, Lachmi Bai, theRani, will command the forces of the State. If anyone doth say me, nay,he hath the right to let his voice be heard in council. I will listento him patiently."

  At critical moments in the lives of those destined to play heroic partsin the eyes of their fellow creatures, it not infrequently happens,that nature appears to cast a vote in their favor, by a strikingmanifestation of sympathetic accord. To many, such may be no more thancoincidences, but to some, particularly to the Oriental, they arefraught with deep significance.

  The sun mounting over the Palace discovered a rent in the awning ofone of the windows set in the roof of the _Darbar_ hall. It sent fortha shaft of dazzling light that, penetrating the darkened chamber,descended full upon the form of the Rani of Jhansi. In her robes ofstate, for the moment, she appeared in a blaze of splendor, that toher audience betokened a supernatural power guiding her destiny.Against such, what was man, that he should dare to raise a voice inprotest? Was it not clearly a sign that the blessing and protectionof the great God rested on her head. Even to Ahmad Khan, surprisedand dumbfounded by the Rani's unexpected action, as seeming to againbaffle his carefully laid plans, the incident was not lost upon hissense of superstition. Prasad's mind merely reflected the feelings ofthe others. A profound silence followed the Rani's declaration. No manventured a yea or nay.

  The Rani waited patiently a few moments for their answer, then againspoke.

  "By your silence, my Lords, am I to gather your consent"? she asked.

  A Raja rose from his chair of state and replied:

  "Surely thou art the Rani," he exclaimed. "Is it not the will of Godthat thy word shall be a law with us. Thou art the commander of us all."

  "It is the will of God," came without a dissenting voice from all partsof the hall. "Aye, it is the will of Mahadiva."

  The Rani warmly thanked the nobles for their confidence. She againeulogized their valor and loyalty, assuring them that when the momentof danger threatened, she would not be found wanting in courage, ifnecessary, to lead her army in person. So gentle yet so stirring washer appeal, that even the hearts of those before given over to sensualindulgences, were moved to do brave actions in her behalf.

  They sprang to their feet and shouted enthusiastically. "Thou art ourRani. We will follow thee to the death, O Queen of Jhansi."

  An expression of surpassing happiness rested on her face.

  "Then, my Lords," she cried, "I bid you all attend me to-morrow when Iwill repair in state to the White Turret, and raise upon it my banneras the emblem of my military authority."

  "And let him who dares," she concluded, "lift his hand against it."

  The walls trembled with the applause which her concluding sentence andher defiant air brought forth.

  Again she enjoined silence by a gesture.

  "Before the _Darbar_ closes," she added, "I have yet to speak a wordto you. With much thought I have decided that the well tried valor ofthe noble Ahmad Khan, entitles him to the subordinate command of theforces quartered in the cantonments, as long as he shall remain inJhansi. Further, for certain reasons, I will appoint as my lieutenantof Jhansi, the noble, Dost Ali, lately come to us from the great Amirof Afghanistan, Dost Mohammed."

  Briefly she recapitulated the reason urged by Ahmad Khan for theDost's appointment to the greater office. No voice dissenting she thendeclared the _Darbar_ closed.

  Kindly she turned to Prasad and invited him to accompany her to herprivate apartments.

  With intense chagrin, jealousy, and disappointment in his heart, hebowed haughtily, and pleaded as an excuse a pressing matter requiringhis presence elsewhere.

  For a moment a look of pain crossed her face.

  But the music again sounded, the fans of
state waved on high, theprocession re-formed, and between the ranks of _salaaming_ nobles, theRani retired from her first _Darbar_.

  Ahmad Khan had scarce time to adjust his plans to the unexpected coursetaken by the Rani. But in the appointment of his _protege_, even tothe lesser position of honor, he beheld a dagger by which to stab hisrival's favor with the Rani, a fatal blow.

  Prasad strode toward the door, wrapt in gloomy, bitter feelings,without exchanging a parting salutation with anyone.

  Ahmad followed quickly and caught up with the Hindu noble before thelatter had crossed the threshold.

  "Stay, good friend," he cried. "Thou art in a great hurry to shake thedust of the _Darbar_ hall from thy feet."

  "Aye," returned the other, with sullen ill humor. "And it will not belong before I shake the dust of the accursed city from my feet."

  "Why so"? asked Ahmad with assumed astonishment.

  "Why so," retorted Prasad angrily. "How canst thou ask, why so, afterthy cajolery"?

  Ahmad shrugged his shoulders deprecatingly. "Friend, Prasad," heasserted. "I give thee my word, no man in the _Darbar_ was moreastonished than Ahmad Khan when the Rani grasped the sword of stateherself."

  For once he spoke the truth honestly.

  "Of that I make no complaint," retorted Prasad. "If the Rani so wishedit, hers was the prerogative; though a strange one for a woman toassert."

  "Then to what hast thou taken so much offense"? asked the Mohammedanwith apparent innocence.

  Prasad, in turn, regarded Ahmad with a look of astonishment.

  "Art thou so guileless, O Ahmad Khan"? he asked, "after all that haspassed between us, not to imagine that I might be offended with theRani's action, in giving to another--a stranger--that which she knew Ibesought of her favor."

  "Ah! as to that, my Prasad," returned Ahmad, pacifically, "there mayhave been many reasons in the Rani's mind, apart from the chief onegiven. She may have assumed thou wouldst not have cared for the lesserhonor conferred upon Dost Ali--by the way a handsome fellow too; or,woman like, mind, I say no word against the beauty, wisdom, and courageof the Rani, she may have admired the gallant bearing of this fellow.A new favorite, perchance. Thou must remember, good Prasad, she is awoman as well as Rani, and turneth her gaze first upon one, then towardanother."

  Prasad's brow scowled threateningly.

  "By God," he muttered. "She shall not treat me so."

  "Nay, nay, Prasad," Ahmad rejoined restrainingly. "Thou canst notdictate to the Rani. She would care little even if thou didst menaceher with a sword. With her thou must fence with other weapons. I makeno doubt it is but a passing fancy she hath conceived for this DostAli."

  "Dost Ali"! Prasad muttered fiercely, "Dost Ali! Dost Ali had betterlook to the sharpening of _his_ sword."

  "Come! come, good Prasad," continued Ahmad, laying a friendly hand uponthe other's arm. "Dost Ali hath no weight in the Lovely One's esteem.But display thy spirit and she will quickly turn again to thee, for sheloveth thee in her heart, I could swear to it. Be advised in this way.Absent thyself from the ceremony of to-morrow. I will tell her I knownot what ails thee, that thou art falling sick, perchance. Then beholdhow she will fly to thy side. Then see how speedily she will grantanything thou askest."

  "Ahmad," the other returned gravely. "I know not what to think of thee.Thy ways here may win for thee the Seventh Heaven of thy Prophet'sParadise, or the lowest pit of his Inferno. But thou givest shrewdadvice, I make no doubt."

  Ahmad laughed. "Come, friend," he rejoined. "Clearly thou dost notunderstand a woman's ways. She delighteth in men striving for herfavor, but let the chosen one display indifference, and she is at hisfeet. In the meantime let us to my house without the city. There," headded insinuatingly, "thou wilt discover a little treasure that mayamuse thee--a Kashmir dancing girl of no ordinary charm, my Prasad.True her eyes, her lips, her form, are not comparable to the endowmentsof the superb Rani, but she hath a way with her that pleaseth many.Some of the _Giours'_ spirits have I, too; and though as one of theFaithful I may not taste of such, yet thou mayest in their subtlewaters, forget the passing cloud until the sun shall again blaze uponthy turban. Come! Let us away, and forget our disappointments. All willyet go well with thee."

  To this proposal, after some demur, Prasad reluctantly consented.

  With a courtly bow that concealed the sinister smile upon his face,Ahmad motioned the Hindu noble to take precedence of him, by passingfirst out of the _Darbar_ hall.