69. The Envoy

The qualification of an ambassador are affection (for his relations) a fitting birth, and the possession of attributes pleasing to royalty.

Love (to his sovereign), knowledge (of his affairs), and a discriminating power of speech (before other sovereigns) are the three sine qua non qualifications of an ambassador.

To be powerful in politics among those who are learned (in ethics) is the character of him who speaks to lance-bearing kings on matters of triumph (to his own sovereign).

He may go on a mission (to foreign rulers) who has combined in him all these three. viz., (natural) sense, an attractive bearing and well-tried learning.

He is an ambassador who (in the presence of foreign rulers) speaks briefly, avoids harshness, talks so as to make them smile, and thus brings good (to his own sovereign).

He is an ambassador who having studied (politics) talks impressively, is not afraid of angry looks, and knows (to employ) the art suited to the time.

He is chief (among ambassadors) who understands the proper decorum (before foreign princes), seeks the (proper) occasion, knows the (most suitable) place, and delivers his message after (due) consideration.

The qualifications of him who faithfully delivers his (sovereign's) message are purity, the support (of foreign ministers), and boldness, with truthfulness in addition to the (aforesaid) three.

He alone is fit to communicate (his sovereign's) reply, who possesses the firmness not to utter even inadvertently what may reflect discredit (on the latter).

He is the ambassador who fearlessly seeks his sovereign's good though it should cost him his life (to deliver his message).