The Secret of Secrets and Other Philosophical Treatises

...and no less should he release the guilty from prisons. To relieve heavy burdens honorably, he performed many pious works. When a certain speech is finished, the king shall sit, and immediately one of the secondary princes, who is considered by all for his wisdom and eloquence, shall rise. He shall speak for the honor and commendation of the king, giving thanks to God that He has so well ordered the kingdom, and that He decorated the fatherland with such a wise king, and that He shaped a praiseworthy people, coming together from everywhere in obedience and unanimity. After these divine praises, let him turn to the praise of the people, commending their good morals and winning over the king’s benevolence and love. He shall lead them by examples and reasons to humility, obedience, and reverence. Once this is done, the whole people will strive to extol the king's praises, because it is right to commend good works, to pray to God for the king's life, and to recount the king's works and wisdom through cities and families. They shall even teach their children letters from infancy and lead them to the love, honor, obedience, and fear of the king. Thus, in this way, the king’s fame original: "fama." In this context, it refers to the king's public reputation and the spread of his renown. is revealed and published in secret and in public.

On the justice of the king.

viij. He is also accustomed at such a time to punish evildoers and criminals and to remove them from the midst, so that the way of harming through presumption original: "presumptionibus." This refers to the arrogance or boldness of those who think they can break the law without consequence. is closed off and others are corrected. He is also accustomed to lighten tributes and to make arrangements with merchants; part of their returns is remitted to them,

to diligently defend and guard them along with their wares. And this is the reason why India In medieval "Mirror for Princes" literature, India was often depicted as a land of immense wealth and exemplary, if exotic, governance. is so heavily populated; for merchants from everywhere gladly flock there because they are received gently, and both rich and poor citizens and foreigners make a profit. It is from this that the royal tributes and revenues are increased. Therefore, one must beware of offending or injuring merchants. For they are indeed carriers of praise original: "adulatores." While this often means "flatterers," here it refers to those who carry and spread a ruler's reputation across borders., carrying good fame throughout the whole world. Therefore, to each must be given what is his own, for in this way cities are fortified and revenues are multiplied, so that the king's honor and glory may increase. Thus, enemies tremble and are trampled down; thus the king shall live peacefully and securely, and thus he attains the desire of his will.

On the final intention of the king.

ix. O Alexander, do not desire that which is corruptible and transitory, and which you must soon leave behind. Seek incorruptible riches, an immutable life, an eternal kingdom, and a glorious endurance. Therefore, always direct your thoughts toward the good; make yourself glorious and manly. Shun the lives of the lecherous and of lions original: "leonu." This likely refers to an animalistic, predatory, or overly aggressive nature that lacks human reason. in their impurities. Do not be cruel, but be flexible in sparing those over whom you have had victory. Think of future things, accidents, and chances, for you do not know what a future day may bring forth. Do not let your desires be turned toward eating, drinking, sexual intercourse, and long sleep.