paramount to obligation of sovereignty, and make the king tanquam unus ex nobis;[1] as was to be seen in the League[2] of France. When factions are carried too high and too violently, it is a sign of weakness in princes; and much to the prejudice both of their authority and business. The motions of factions under kings ought to be like the motions (as the astronomers speak) of the inferior orbs, which may have their proper motions, but yet still are quietly carried by the higher motion of primum mobile.
LII. Of Ceremonies and Respects.[3]
He that is only real, had need have exceeding great parts of virtue; as the stone had need to be rich that is set without foil.[4] But if a man mark it well, it is in praise and commendation of men as it is in gettings and gains: for the proverb is true, That light gains make heavy purses; for light gains come thick, whereas great come but now and then. So it
- ↑ As one of us.
- ↑ The Holy League was formed by the Roman Catholic interests in 1576 under the leadership of Henry, Duke of Guise. Henry III. of France weakly joined the League which directed its main efforts towards preventing the succession of Henry of Navarre, his heir, and a Protestant. The Duke of Guise became so powerful as to set up pretensions to the throne. Henry III. fled from Paris, and ultimately entered into an alliance with Henry of Navarre and the Huguenots. King in name only, he took the part of a pawn in the great game Henry of Guise and Henry of Navarre were playing.
- ↑ Respects. Deferential good wishes; complimentary regards.
- ↑ Foil. A piece of gold or silver leaf set behind a gem to give it color or lustre.
