CHAP. XV. 
TRUST IN THE PROTECTION OF GOD. 
419 
having interests in common, rather than become separated 
and disunited, if not hostile communities. The prince said 
it was his earnest desire to do all he could to mitigate the 
sufferings of the people, and to render them contented and 
prosperous; and that, if his life was spared, he should still 
do so, trusting in Gfod to direct and preserve him. He said 
some of his friends remonstrated with him for going about 
with so few attendants; “ But,” he added, “ I put my trust 
in G-od. If it be His will that I should live, He will protect 
me.” I said, “Yes; Gfod will preserve us in doing what is 
right; but it is our duty to use the means He places within 
our reach to prevent wicked men from doing mischief.” He 
said, “ I do not think I should, in reality, be more safe with 
a larger number of attendants. My chief trust is in God. 
He is the sovereign of life.” 
The sentiment thus expressed was often repeated by the 
prince, and had been more than once exemplified in his 
conduct. I heard from more parties than one that, but a 
short time before my arrival at the capital, an attempt had 
been made upon his life. One of the idol-keepers was said 
to have concealed himself with some of his adherents in a 
part of the way along which the prince was expected to pass, 
in going to visit the commander-in-chief, who was sick. The 
assassin had raised his spear as the prince approached; and, 
if not actually making the thrust, it was so near his person, 
that the prince either seized or dashed aside the weapon with 
his own hand. The attendants of the prince secured and 
would have despatched the man at once, and the chief officer, 
it is said, gave orders for him to be put to death that night; 
but the prince interposed, and said, “ Gfod is the sovereign of 
life. He has preserved my life, and it is not necessary for 
its continued preservation that I should destroy the life of 
this man. Let him live, but be sent to a distant part of the 
country, and there so secured as to prevent farther mischief 
E E 2 
