The Mauryan Polity c10.s2.t7.9

c10.s2.t7.9

That they were employed in all departments and that misappropriation on their part was severely punished is seen from the same chapter also.² Perhaps the statement in chapter 20 of Book III in regard to the *puruṣas* and their qualifications is a reference to the civil servants. Regard was to be shown to those *puruṣas* who were learned, wise, bold, of high birth and skilled in discharging duties.³ It would appear that only qualified men were appointed to this service.