Political system of the Regent—His foreign policy—His pre-eminent influence in Rajwara—His first connexion with the English Government—Monson’s retreat—Gallant conduct and death of the Hara chief of Koila—Aid given by the Regent involves him with Holkar—Holkar comes to Kotah—Preparations to attack the capital—Singular interview with Zalim—Zalim’s agents at foreign courts—Alliance with Amir Khan, and the Pindari chiefs—Characteristic anecdotes—Zalim’s offensive policy—His domestic policy—Character of Maharao Ummed Singh—Zalim’s conduct towards him—Choice of ministers—Bishan Singh Faujdar—Dalil Khan Pathan—Circumvallation of Kotah—Foundation of the city Jhalrapatan—Mihrab Khan, commander of the forces 1569 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 CHAPTER 11