1816 (Gratitude for a Wise and Liberal Monarch): The Haytian people are reminded that the Deity has bestowed upon them a “wise and liberal Monarch” who is “e…

1816 (Gratitude for a Wise and Liberal Monarch): The Haytian people are reminded that the Deity has bestowed upon them a “wise and liberal Monarch” who is “ever vigilant” to administer to their wants. The King’s past achievements are framed as a “sure guarantee” of what he can still accomplish for the happiness and glory of the nation. The narrative expresses regret that some fellow-citizens remain deceived by a “hypocrite” and “traitor” (referring to Pétion), whose goal is to demoralize the nation and render it subservient to former tyrants. This religious and paternalistic framing of the monarchy was central to Christophe’s claim to absolute legitimacy.