Theory of Government in Ancient India (Post-Vedic) c13.s1.64

c13.s1.64

"They may swerve from their necessary discipline which would increase in the state evils such as famine, disease and infantile mortality . . . . . it is sufficient if the king shows *bhakti* towards them. The only evil that might then result is their suffering, but no sin would accrue to the sovereign. Be assured of this." The administration of temple was another matter with which the state had to concern itself. It should not be entrusted to greedy officers. Harbours of the country should be improved and the importation of horses, elephants, precious gems, sandalwood, pearls, etc., should be encouraged. Ship-wrecked foreign sailors should be carefully looked after. Thanks to military exigencies—Kṛṣṇadeva is extraordinarily solicitous about foreign importers of horses and elephants. Daily royal audience presents, decent profits, excellent accommodation in cities and villages are the means prescribed to win their attachment. Then they will not take horses and elephants to enemy countries.¹