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250
LAWS OF MANU.
VII, 208.
the latter, let (the conqueror) secure the fruit of the expedition from(the prince whom he attacks), whether (he may have become) friendly or (remained) hostile.
208. By gaining gold and land a king grows not so much in strength as by obtaining a firm friend, (who), though weak, (may become) powerful in the future.
209. A weak friend (even) is greatly commended, who is righteous (and) grateful, whose people are contented, who is attached and persevering in his undertakings.
210. The wise declare him (to be) a most dangerous foe, who is wise, of noble race, brave, clever, liberal, grateful, and firm.
211. Behaviour worthy of an Aryan, knowledge of men, bravery, a compassionate disposition, and great liberality are the virtues of a neutral (who may be courted).
212. Let the king, without hesitation, quit for his own sake even a country (which is) salubrious, fertile, and causing an increase of cattle.
Râgh. that the king, bent on conquest, shall secure his back before he undertakes an expedition. The prince immediately in his rear, who in the terms of the Nîti is called the pârshnigrâha, 'the heelcatcher,' may be supposed to be hostile to him and may be expected to invade his territory during his absence. It is, therefore, essential for the conqueror either to settle matters with him beforehand, or to secure the support of the next neighbour of the pârshnigrâha, who is technically called the âkranda and may be supposed to be inclined to check the pârshnigraha.
208. Yâgñ. I, 351.
211. Sthaulalakshyam,'great liberality'(Kull., Nár., Rågh., Nand.), is explained, as Kull. asserts, by Medh. and Gov. 'being not sharpsighted. The Government copy of Gov. has, however, just the contrary, sūkshmadarsitvam. Medhi's explanation is not decipherable.
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