In the interests of righteousness, the king may inflict punishment on those courtiers who - though living under his service
- are dangerous to the safety of the kingdom. Measures such as these shall be taken only against the seditious and the wicked and never against other persons.
The king who finds himself in a financial trouble (and needs money) may collect revenue from his subjects according to their capacity. But he shall never demand money of those subjects who do not have enough
subsistence. Failing these measures, the king’s officials may prevail upon the peasantry to raise an additional crop. Such demands may be made only once and never twice. The king may also demand donations from his subjects - and honor those who comply with rank or status.
The king’s officials may also punish with financial penalties those who trade in any article without obtaining a license from the king. Or, one of the king's officials may enter into a partnership with a rich merchant, and carry on trade along with him. Or, the king’s officials may borrow money from wealthy merchants. Revenue should be collected as soon as it becomes ripe. Collection of revenue when unripe should never be carried on, lest the source be injured.
The king should fix a certain part of the total revenue towards maintaining his employees. The amount of subsistence should be such that they do not yield themselves to temptation and are not discontented. The king shall not only maintain his employees, but also increase their wages according to their work and their learning. And the dependants of those who die while on duty shall get subsistence and wages (from the king). Superintendents shall regulate the subsistence, wages, profits, appointments and transfers of the men who are under them. Thus, when both the receipts and expenditure are properly cared for, the king will never find himself in financial or military difficulties.
The king should not delay in putting down by force the wicked, even if they have strong support. But the king should not (needlessly) inflict punishments on any one, either intentionally or under provocation.
As regards the conduct of a courtier, he should always look after the king’s interests as his own. He should tell the king what is pleasant, if it is for the good. And if the king is willing to listen to his counsel, he should also tell the king what is unpleasant if it is for the good. The courtier may keep silent if required; but he should never suggest a course of action without giving due thought to the consequences. Also, the courtier should not misuse his position by casting aspersions against others...