There shall not a man be put to death this day.
A magnanimous king
Louis XII of France is known in history as a most magnanimous prince towards his enemies. On his accession he caused a list of these to be drawn up, and marked against each name a black cross. This was looked upon by them that they were singled out for punishment, and they accordingly fled. When Louis heard of it, he had them called into his presence and assured them that they had no cause for alarm, since the reason why he had placed the cross against their names was to keep him in mind of the Cross that brings pardon to all. Among those who sought his pardon at this time were the magistrates of Orleans, who had subjected him to such indignities while he was detained as a prisoner in their city. Their deputation he dismissed courteously with the generous reply that “it did not, become the King of France to resent the injuries of the Duke of Orleans.” Of a like spirit was Lord Nelson, who penned in his cabin on the morning of the battle of Trafalgar: “May humanity after victory be the predominant feature in the British fleet.” (Charles Deal.)
The best way to conquer an enemy
Henry IV of France was wont to say that he was able to conquer all his enemies, by treating them with such clemency and kindness when they were in his power that they were changed into loyal subjects.