The Truth Unveiled — Page 4
4 4 Islasm ntals eriosP urPsb actual circumstances and the principles of my mission to this kind government. For the purpose of clarity, I have divided the exposition of these matters into five sections. Firstly , I shall comment upon my lineage and background. In this context, it should suffice to say that I belong to a landowning family. My ancestors were sovereigns in the land and independent ruling chieftains who were ruined unexpectedly during the Sikh rule. Although the favours of the British government have bene - fited all in general, still, my elders in particular are most indebted as under British protection they were delivered from a raging fur - nace and granted peace after a life of peril. My father, Mirza Ghulam Murtaza, was a chieftain in this locality known for his piety. The eminent governmental officials have given strong written testimonial to his faithfulness and loy - alty to the government. He was always honoured with a seat when in audience with the governor; senior officials would always look toward him with respect. Due to his noble character, both pro - vincial and divisional officers would, on occasions, visit him at his home, for in the eyes of British officials he was a loyal chieftain. I firmly believe that the British government will never forget the service he rendered during the perilous time of 1857 when, beyond the measure of his means, he himself purchased fifty horses and gifted them to the government as support along with the service of fifty horsemen from among his family and friends. Numerous riders from among our relations bravely lost their lives in India against the mutineers. My brother, the late Mirza Ghulam Qadir, participated in the battle of Trimmu Ghat and fought valiantly. Thus, my ancestors have sacrificed their blood, wealth and lives;