1.   A long, long time ago, a king had three daughters.

2.   At that time, the king could simply have his enemies imprisoned or shot.

3.   Only the king has the power to order her release from prison.

4.   The Kings have ability, but not overwhelming physical size or strength.

5.   The king had at his disposal, not tax revenue, but plunder and tribute amassed through warfare.

6.   A king had to be able to create a sense of solidarity among his men.

7.   In another respect, however, the king had grounds for satisfaction.

8.   Yet gift-giving was not the only connection which these kings had with religion.

9.   Even in the secular legislation of Chlothar II a king had the right only of veto.