under his immediate headship. It is for him to conclude treaties, to lead to battle his armies, and during peace to keep them prepared for war (_Canti Parva_, p. 228). But the duty which comes before all others is to protect his subjects. That, indeed, is imposed on him as a religious duty. "For having protected his Kingdom a King becomes sanctified and finally sports in Heaven" (_Canti Parva_, p. 68). "Whether he does or does not do any other religious acts, if only he protects his subjects he is thought to accomplish all religion." (ibid., p. 193). In return for the proper discharge of his innumerable tasks, he is regarded by his subjects as the incarnation of Indra. He is entitled to a sixth share of the gross revenue of the country. Fearful penalties attach to the infringement of his rights. "That man who even thinks of doing an injury to the King meets with grief here and Hell hereafter" (_Canti Parva_, p. 221). "He will be destroyed like a deer that has taken poison." On the other hand, should the King fail to meet his obligations--and above all, if he does not protect his subjects--he offends grievously, "These persons should be avoided like a leaky boat on the sea, a preceptor who does not speak, a priest who has not studied the Scriptures, a King who does not grant protection" (_Canti Parva_, p. 176). "A King who does not protect his kingdom takes upon himself a quarter of its sins" (_Drona Parva_, p. 625). In the last resort his subjects will be freed from their allegiance. "If a powerful King approaches kingdoms torn by anarchy from desire of annexing them to his dominions the people should go forward and receive the invader with respect."