Chapter 10

The Rajput States invited to an alliance with the British
Government—Zalim Singh the first to accept it—Marquess of
Hastings sends an agent to his court—Confederation against
the Pindaris—The Regent’s conduct during the
war—Approbation and reward of his services—Peace
throughout India—Death of Maharao Ummed Singh—Treaty and
supplemental articles—Sons of Maharao Ummed Singh—Their
characters—Sons of the Regent—State of parties—The Regent
leaves the Chhaoni for Kotah—He proclaims Kishor Singh as
successor of the late prince—His letter to the British
agent, who repairs to Kotah—Dangerous illness of the
Regent—Plots to overturn the order of succession—The
Regent’s ignorance thereof—Intricate position of the
British Government—Arguments in defence of the
supplemental articles—Recognition of all rulers _de facto_
the basis of our treaties—Kishor Singh refuses to
acknowledge the supplemental articles—Consequences—The
Regent blockades the Prince, and demands the surrender of
his son Gordhandas—The Maharao breaks through the
blockade—The British agent interposes—Surrender and exile
of Gordhandas—Reconciliation of the Maharao and the
Regent—Coronation of the Maharao—Mutual covenants
executed—The Regent prohibits _dand_ throughout
Kotah—Reflections 1577