It is true these poor creatures have grievously erred, but they erred as human beings.

Then let your punishment also be human.

It is not wise, O king, to want to avenge so bitterly a trifling injury to your majesty.
A king must be exalted above reviling and calumny.

Like the sun, he must shine upon the just and the unjust, no one of whom is so mighty that he can cloud his splendor and dim his glory.

Punish evil-doers and criminals, but be noble and magnanimous toward those who have injured your person." "The king is no person that can be injured!" said Gardiner.