CHAP. XXIII.
Of Spies in Monarchies.
Book XII.
Chap. 23.SHOULD I be asked whether there is any necessity for spies in monarchies; my answer would be, that the usual practice of good princes is not to employ them. When a man obeys the laws, he has discharged his duty to his prince. He ought at least to have his own house for an asylum, and the rest of his conduct should be exempt from inquiry. The spying-trade might perhaps be tolerable, were it practised by honest men; but the necessary infamy of the person is sufficient to make us judge of the infamy of the thing. A prince ought to act towards his subjects with candor, frankness, and confidence. He that has so much disquiet, suspicion and fear, is an actor embarrassed in playing his part. When he finds that the laws are generally observed and reflected, he may judge himself safe. The general behaviour of the public answers for that of every individual. Let him not be afraid: he cannot imagine how natural it is for his people to love him. And how should they do otherwise than love him? since he is the source of almost all the favours that are shewn; punishments being generally charged to the account of the laws. He never shews himself to his people but with a serene countenance; they have even a share of his glory, and they are protected by his power. A proof of his being beloved is that his subjects have a confidence in him; what the minister refuses, they imagine the prince would have granted: even under public calamities they do not accuse his per-
