Page:The Kural or The Maxims Of Tiruvalluvar.pdf/213

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THE KURAL

736. Behold the land that hath known no devastation by its foes, and which, even should it suffer any, would not bate one whit in its yield: it will be called a jewel among the countries of the world.

737. The waters of the surface, the waters that flow underground, rain-water, well-situated mountains, and strong fortifications, these are indispensable to every country.

738. Wealth, richness of yield, happiness, immunity from diseases, and safety from invasions, these five are the ornaments of a kingdom.

739. That alone deserveth to be called country which produceth abundantly without the labour of the people : that which yieldeth only unto labour deserveth not that name.

740. Even if a country hath all these blessings it is worth nothing if it is not blessed in its ruler.

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