He became the father of his people, and especially the friend and helper of the poor.

The king was deeply impressed with the words of our Saviour, "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy," and with the declaration of Solomon, "He who giveth to the poor lendeth to the Lord." In the excess of his zeal of benevolence he was disposed to forgive all criminals.

Thus crime was greatly multiplied, and the very existence of the state became endangered.

The clergy, in a body, remonstrated with him, assuring him that God had placed him upon the throne expressly that he might punish the wicked and thus protect the good.

He felt the force of this reasoning, and instituted, though with much reluctance, a more rigorous government.