Accordingly the new reign was inaugurated by a general remission of tribute and military service for the space of three years--a measure which was certain to give satisfaction to all the tribes and nations of the Empire, except the Persians.

Persia Proper was at all times exempt from tribute, and was thus, so far, unaffected by the boon granted, while military service was no doubt popular with the ruling nation, for whose benefit the various conquests were effected.

Still Persia could scarcely take umbrage at an inactivity which was to last only three years, while to the rest of the Empire the twofold grace accorded must have been thoroughly acceptable.
Further to confirm his uncertain hold upon the throne, the Pseudo-Smerdis took to wife all the widows of his predecessor.

This is a practice common in the East; and there can be no doubt that it gives a new monarch a certain prestige in the eyes of his people.

In the present case, however, it involved a danger.