Directly below the Principe are his heirs. He usually has more than one named (often five or more, sometimes into the twenties), so that he does not have to worry so much about being killed by one of his sons. He keeps his actual choice secret in a prearranged, guarded spot, to be revealed upon his death. For this reason, his heirs must all try to curry favor, whereas if there was one they might just kill him to assume the throne. | Directly below the Principe are his heirs. He usually has more than one named (often five or more, sometimes into the twenties), so that he does not have to worry so much about being killed by one of his sons. He keeps his actual choice secret in a prearranged, guarded spot, to be revealed upon his death. For this reason, his heirs must all try to curry favor, whereas if there was one they might just kill him to assume the throne. |