Page:The Kural or The Maxims Of Tiruvalluvar.pdf/178



561. The prince shall measure the guilt of the offender and punish him so that he offend not again : but the punishment shall not be excessive.

562. Those that desire that their power shall last, let them brandish the rod smartly but lay it on soft.

563. Behold the prince who ruleth with a rod of iron and causeth anguish unto his people: he shall stand without a friend and perish forthwith.

564. Behold the prince whose cruelty is a by-word among his people : his days will be shortened and he will perish forthwith.

565. Behold the dour-faced prince who is inaccessible to his people : the wealth in his hands is like treasure guarded by a demon. Rh