This is from a recent book I’ve read, I believe it was Warriors of God by James Reston.
I commend you to God Almighty. He is the source of all good. Do the will of God, for that is the way of peace. Beware of bloodshed. Trust not in that, for spilt blood never sleeps. Seek to gain the hearts of thy subjects, and watch over all their interests, for thou art only appointed by God and by me to look after their good. Endeavor to gain the hearts of thy emirs, they ministers, and thy nobles. I have become great as I am because I have won the heart of my people by gentleness and kindness. Never nourish ill feeling against any man, for death spares none. Be prudent in thy dealings with other men, for God will not pardon unless they forgive you. But as to that which is between God and thyself, He will pardon the penitent, for He is gracious.
–a letter from Salah ad-Din (Saladin) to his son, el-Melik ez-Zaher
