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 God 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 God. If it be His will that I should live, He will protect me.” I said, “Yes; God 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, “ God 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