his word, that he would dwell with them not one day more.
"For," said he, "I have fulfilled my ministry toward you, and have
omitted naught, neither have I kept back anything that was profitable
unto you, in failing to show or teach you, testifying to all the faith
in our Lord Jesus Christ, and pointing out the paths of repentance. And
now behold I go the road that I have long time desired, and all ye
shall see my face no more. Wherefore I take you to record this day, as
saith the holy Apostle, that I am pure from the blood of you all, for I
have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God."

When they heard this, and perceived the steadfastness of his purpose,
that nothing could hinder him from his resolve, they wept like orphans
over their bereavement, but could in no wise over-persuade him. Then
did the king take that Barachias, of whom we have already spoken,
saying, "This is he, brethren, whom I appoint to be your king." And
though Barachias stoutly resisted, yet he established him, unwilling
and reluctant, upon the royal throne, and placed the diadem on his
head, and gave the kingly ring into his hand. Then he stood facing the
cast and made prayer for King Barachias, that his faith toward God
might be preserved unwavering, and that he might keep without faltering
the path of Christ's commandments. Therewith he prayed for the clergy
and all the flock, asking of God succour for them and salvation, and
all that might fitly be asked for their welfare.

Thus he prayed, and then turning said unto Barachias, "Behold, brother,
I charge thee, as the Apostle once adjured his people, 'Take heed unto
thyself, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made
thee king, to feed the Lord's people, whom he hath purchased with his
own blood.' And even as thou wast before me in the knowledge of God,
and didst serve him with a pure conscience, so now also show the more
zeal in pleasing him. For, as thou hast received of God a mighty
sovereignty, thou owest him the greater repayment. Render therefore to
thy Benefactor the debt of thanksgiving, by the keeping of his holy
commandments and by turning aside from every path whose end is
destruction. For it is with kingdoms as with ships. If one of the
sailors blunder it bringeth but small damage to the crew. But if the
steersman err, he causeth the whole ship to perish. Even so it is with
sovranty: if a subject err, he harmeth himself more than the state.