They wielded the power of life and death.

They assessed the tribute on the several towns and villages within their jurisdiction at their pleasure, and appointed deputies--called sometimes, like themselves, satraps--over cities or districts within their province, whose office was regarded as one of great dignity.

They exacted from the provincials, for their own support and that of their Court, over and above the tribute due to the crown, whatever sum they regarded them as capable of furnishing.

Favors, and even justice, had to be purchased from them by gifts.

They were sometimes guilty of gross outrages on the persons and honor of their subjects.