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28 with the Afghan soldiers and Mahmud was afraid of incurring the wrath of his own people if an action was taken against him. At one time he thought that he had an opportunity to ruin his cousin. During the siege of Isfahan, Ashraf was given a post. It was through his defence line that Tahmasap Mirza, the eldest son of Sultan Hussein, had effected his escape from Isfahan. Mahmud endeavoured to fan the ill-will of his people towards him by accusing Ashraff of cowardice and treachery. But the latter defended himself in an artful manner characteristic of his nation. He proved that his authority had been so circumscribed and weakened that it was impossible for him to oppose the superior force by which he was attacked. It was established by irrefutable evidence that he had done all that he could do to prevent the prince's escape, but those were to be blamed who had sent the men under his command to another quarter. He was acquitted of the charge by the unanimous votes of the assembled chiefs, and Mahmud had the mortification to see his plan frustrated. He thus enhanced the popularity and reputation of his opponent.