Lehal Library

210 Punjab Monarchy and Imperialism the big cities and introducing a proper system of accounting. He was, however, more able than honest; on several occasions Ranjit Singh had to question his integrity. ('His hunchback was full of mischief-Sohan Lal.) The other entrant to the royal service was a young and handsome Brahmin youth from Meerut, Khushal Chand He enlisted as a common soldier in the Maharajah's personal bodyguard and rose to the rank ofJemadar. His pleasant personality attracted his master and he became a great favourite-particularly after his conversion to the Sikh faith. He was put in charge of the palace, including the private apartments. 11 11 The charge of Lhe fU01'lii was of considerable importance since anyone who wanted a personal interview with the Maharajah had first to approach the de<J[hidiir. It gave the inCUJTibent political power as well as a handsome income from presents. Jemadar Khushal Singh introduced two relations of his to the coun: a nephew, Tej Singh and his younger brother. Ram Cliand, renamed Ram Singh after conversion to Sikhism. This family of Brahmins exerted a baleftll influence which Ranjit Singh was never able to shake off. It was one of the rare instances of Ranjit's misjudging I.he qua.lily of I.he men he-employed. Tej Singh played a Lraitorous role in I.he Anglo-Sikh wars.