The phrase “A pretty business indeed” is employed sarcastically. In the context of the passage, the author is critiquing the superficial and largely destructive role of the king, highlighting that the primary functions of the monarchy—making war and distributing wealth—ultimately lead to the impoverishment of the nation. The phrase suggests that the author finds the situation absurd or ludicrous; it is not truly "pretty" or admirable that a king can command such a large salary and receive worship when, in reality, his actions are detrimental to society.
Moreover, the use of “pretty” implies a degree of irony, as the author juxtaposes the lavish lifestyle and reverence a king receives with the actual impact of his role on the common people. By elevating “one honest man” above “all the crowned ruffians,” the author argues for the values of integrity and service to society over the ostentatious yet harmful privileges of monarchy. This reinforces the sarcasm, as the passage critiques the notion that ruling and being worshipped has merit when it is predicated on the exploitation and suffering of others. The overall tone conveys a strong disillusionment with the monarchy and an advocacy for more equitable forms of governance.