Matsya Purana 215.78

215.78

strīṣu ṣaṇḍhaṃ niyuñjīta tīkṣṇaṃ dāruṇakarmasu.
dharme cārthe ca kāme ca naye ca ravinandana!.. 215.78 ..

He should think of acquiring wealth with the eyes of a crane and he should shew valour like that of a lion, he should take to his heels like a wolf, collect money like a hare, strike hard on others like a boar he should be of variegated manners like a peacock, devoted like a dog be afraid like a crow, speak sweet like a cuckoo } He should fix his residence in a quiet unknown place and should not take his meals go to bed or use flowers clothes and ornaments without due observation and scrutiny He should not without pre-examination go to a public scene or in the midst of a crowd, nor should he plunge into unknown waters The horses and elephants not tested by experts should not be ridden by The spies should roam in the garb of merchants, ministers astrologers physicians or Sannyasîs When at least two of such spies corroborate each other, the king should act accordingly If they contradict each other then spies of more superior talents should be deputed to find out which of his actions are appreciated by his people as well as the causes of their dissatisfaction The spies should be checked in return He should then abandon for good what may be against the wishes of the people —95 98