________________
IP, 268.
DUTIES OF A KING.
389
262. Then having caused the crimes, which they committed by their several actions, to be proclaimed in accordance with the facts, the king shall duly punish them according to their strength and their crimes.
263. For the wickedness of evil-minded thieves, who secretly prowl over this earth, cannot be restrained except by punishment.
264. Assembly-houses, houses where water is distributed or cakes are sold, brothels, taverns and victualler's shops, cross-roads, well-known trees, festive assemblies, and play-houses and concertrooms,
265. Old gardens, forests, the shops of artisans, empty dwellings, natural and artificial groves,
266. These and the like places the king shall cause to be guarded by companies of soldiers, both stationary and patrolling, and by spies, in order to keep away thieves.
267. By the means of clever reformed thieves, who associate with such (rogues), follow them and know their various machinations, he must detect and destroy them.
268. Under the pretext of (offering them) various dainties, of introducing them to Brahmanas, and on the pretence of (showing them) feats of strength, the (spies) must make them meet the officers of justice).
read protsârya (protsâryâ, MS.). Kull. explains anekasamsthanaih,
wearing various disguises' (Nâr., Nand.), by 'stationed in various places.' Medhi's commentary on the end of verse 261 and on verses 262–274 is missing in the I. O. MSS.
267. Instead of utsadayet,' he shall destroy them' (Kull., K., editions), Gov., Nâr., Nand., and Râgh. read utsähayet, i.e. he shall incite them to commit (crimes,' Nâr., Râgh.).
Digitized by Google
