Two things are here intimated to be the causes of the
mal-administration of princes:--1. The love of money, that root of all
evil; for hating covetousness here stands opposed to oppression,
according to Moses's character of good magistrates, men fearing God and
hating covetousness (Exod. xviii. 21), not only not being covetous, but
hating it, and shaking the hands from the holding of bribes. A ruler
that is covetous will neither do justly nor love mercy, but the people
under him shall be bought and sold. 2. Want of consideration: He that
hates covetousness shall prolong his government and peace, shall be
happy in the affections of his people and the blessing of his God. It
is as much the interest as the duty of princes to reign in
righteousness. Oppressors therefore and tyrants are the greatest fools
in the world; they want understanding; they do not consult their own
honour, ease, and safety, but sacrifice all to their ambition of an
absolute and arbitrary power. They might be much happier in the hearts
of their subjects than in their necks or estates.