This is an example of a simile, a comparison between two things using the words "like" or "as." "Gloomy as the night" is the simile here, since his sadness is being compared to nighttime.
Answer:
He did a decree because he had no use in old people.
He said I have no use in old people they are neither useful nor able to work for a living
Explanation:
Independent news sources should be evaluated as closely as independent news stations
