The King always takes his ransom

Posted by ESC April 23, 2004In reply to The King always takes his ransom posted by Vaca on April 23, 2004

Prithee, what does this phrase mean, and what is its origin?

Thanks!

Guessing here: whatever else happens, the king (or government) will always be paid. It is along the lines of -- two things in life are certain: death and taxes.