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THough Clemency be one of the worthiest Ornaments in a Soveraign, yet it is not permitted him to make use of it, when it is prejudicial to the publick. That gentlenesse which is shewed to the Ring-leaders of a Conspiracy, is a dangerous cruelty to the State. Cato was of opinion, that they who did not hinder evil-do∣ers
when they might do it, by chastizing them, ought themselves to be punished. For that were to encourage their abettors to follow their evil examples, it is true Aro∣stole saith, The subjects love is the chief foundation of Royal Authority, and that they are not easily induced to love Kings, unlesse upon their owne advantage. And it is very necessary for them to punish the factions, without which they would be hourly exposed to the dangers of civil war, which are the cause of the greatest misfortunes, that can afflict a State. And the same Philosopher in his Morals, esteemeth him uncapable to command, who is never angry, but affects to shew himself merciful, on all occasions whatsoever. To speak truth, a King is bound to shew as much severity to them, whom the publique Interest obligeth to be cha∣stised, as bounty to them that keep themself within their duties. It is the onely means, saith Tacitus in his Annals, to render him as well feared by the wicked, as esteemed and honoured by the good; who receive no lesse satisfaction in the punishment of crimes, than in the receiving of those rewards, which art due to their virtue.