 Initially the King had been represented in the provinces by the Governors ("Gouverneurs") and since 1620 by the Intendants who at first were only in charge of the collection of direct taxes and of regional public finances.Traditionally, the Governors were chosen by the King from the ranks of the highest aristocracy.Nevertheless, as they had occasionally challenged the royal authority in their respective regions, the Kings responded by retaining them as often as possible at the Royal Palace, so that the function of Governor finally became only a ceremonial title.