TALE VI

They tell a story of one of the Kings of Persia, that he had stretched out the hand of oppression on the property of his subjects, and exercised tyranny and violence. By his repeated acts of injustice, the people were compelled to emigrate to different countries, beyond the reach of his power. When his subjects were diminished, the resources of his government were lessened, his treasury was exhausted and powerful enemies pressed him on all quarters. Whosoever looketh for assistance in the day of adversity, let him exercise humanity in the season of prosperity.

If you do not treat kindly the servant with the ring on his ear he will depart: show kindness in such manner that the stranger may become a willing servant. One day in his presence they were reading in the Shahnameh, the history of the decline of the kingdom of Zoliac, and the reign of Feridoon. The Vizier asked the King, "Since Feridoon had neither money nor territory, nor troops, how did it happen that the kingdom was conferred on him?" He answered, "In the manner you have heard; the people joined him, and through their strength gained the kingdom." The Vizier rejoined, "Seeing that collecting people together is the means of forming a kingdom, why then do you make them disperse, unless you do not desire to govern? It is advisable to cherish the army at the risk of your life, as the Sultan deriveth his power from his troops."

The King asked, "What methods are to be taken to collect together troops and subjects? " The Vizier replied, "The monarch must be just to induce them to approach him, and merciful, that they may enjoy peace in the shade of his government; but you possess neither of these qualities. A tyrant cannot govern a kingdom, as a wolf cannot perform the office of a shepherd.

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