X.16 On a despotic state that conquers

, par Stewart

When the conquest is immense, it supposes despotism. At that time, the army dispersed through the provinces does not suffice. The prince must constantly be surrounded by a corps of loyal henchmen ever ready to strike at that part of the empire that could shake loose. This militia must contain the others, and strike fear in all those to whom some authority has necessarily been left in the empire. The emperor of China is surrounded by a large corps of Tartars ever ready when needed. The Mogol, the Turks, and Japan have a corps in the prince’s pay, independently of what is maintained on income from the lands. These special forces keep the general forces in check.