The Kural or the Maxims of Tiruvalluvar/Chapter 59
CHAPTER 59
THE SERVICE OF INTELLIGENCE
581. Let the prince understand that Political Science and his Intelligence Corps are the eyes wherewith he seeth.
582. It is the duty of the prince to learn betimes everything that befalleth every man and every day.
583. Behold the prince that learneth not the happenings about him by means of scouts and spies : conquests are not for him.
584. The prince shalt set spies to watch closely the officers of the realm, his own kindred, and his enemies.
585. Behold the man who can wear an unsuspicious appearance, who will not know confusion before any man, and who can guard his secrets from ever leaking out : he is the proper man for the work of Intelligence.
586. Spies and scouts shall disguise themselves as ascetics and holy men, and their investigation shall be thorough : and whatever is done them, they shall not let out their secrets.
587. Behold the man who can draw out secrets from others and whose information is ever unconfused and clear: he is the man for the work of intelligence.
588. Even the information that hath been obtained by a spy shall be tested by that of another.
589. See that no spy knoweth the others engaged in the same work : when three reports agree, thou mayest give credence to them.
590. Reward not openly thy officers of Intelligence: for if thou do, thou merely lettest out thy own secret.
