His buildings too were not sumptuous; though the Banqueting House must not be forgotten, as a monument which does honor to his reign.

Hunting was his chief amusement, the cheapest pleasure in which a king can indulge himself.

His expenses were the effects of liberality, rather than of luxury.
One day, it is said, while he was standing amidst some of his courtiers, a porter passed by, loaded with money, which he was carrying to the treasury.

The king observed that Rich, afterwards earl of Holland, one of his handsome, agreeable favorites, whispered something to one standing near him.

Upon inquiry, he found that Rich had said, "How happy would that money make me!" Without hesitation, James bestowed it all upon him, though it amounted to three thousand pounds.