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''[Volume III, Book III, Chapters VIII-X]''
 
''[Volume III, Book III, Chapters VIII-X]''
  
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CH AP.
+
CHAP. VIII.<ref>CHAP. XIV. In the Translator's manuscript.</ref>
  
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A CHINESE HISTORY. I 29
+
The tribunal of three having received the Emperor's commission, appointed a day to hear and determine the cause of ''Hu-hiau''. When that day came, as soon as the Mandarines were seated, the Supreme Vice-roy ''Tieh-ying'' being one of them, that unfortunate general was brought out of prison, and entered upon his trial.
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C H A P. VIII.•
 
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T HE tribunal of three having received
 
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the Emperor's commiffion;
 
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appointed a day to hear and determine
 
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the caufe of Hu-biau. When
 
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that day came, as foon as the Mandarines
 
−
were feated, theSuprerne Vice-roy
 
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CJ'ieb-ying being one of them, that unfor~
 
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tunate general was brought out of prifon,
 
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and entered upon his trial. , . : . 1
 
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It happened that the fame day. 'Iiehchung-
 
−
u arrived at .Pe-ki.ng, where .he
 
−
had never been· fince hi~ return from
 
−
Shan-tong. As foon as he alighted he
 
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• CHAP. XIV. In the Tra.nOator's manufcript.
 
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VoL. III. ino;
 
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g; ;,ad by
 
−
130 HAU KIOU ,CHOAAiN:
 
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inquired for his father. His mother
 
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told him · he w.as gd>ne upon 1an affair
 
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of great importance : that there was a
 
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geat officer or valiant man t · tit> hi
 
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bre!>Ught to juilice. He replied, " As
 
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thert is a war, •and valiant men ari; ne:.
 
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cdfary atthis critical juncture, why do
 
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they feek to ·deftroy them ? I will go
 
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and hear the .trial: perhaps my. fa~her
 
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may be drawn over.,rn the opinion of hi&
 
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colleagues, and ·not .follow the dicl:ates
 
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of his natural candour and jufrice."
 
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Then going to the audience•, he was
 
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ftruck with ·the fighrof ,Hu-hiau already
 
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t:ondemned, and . bound, waiting· .for
 
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Ibis execution; having becnfentencea•to
 
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t Thefe feem to be fynonymous in the Chinr/t
 
−
language.
 
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" Called Krmg-J11h-11111m. Tranf. M.S.
 
−
lofc
 
  
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4: CHJNE$E. Hi~TOJ,lY • .J3~
+
It happened that the same day ''Tieh-chung-u'' arrived at ''Pe-king'', where he had never been since his return from ''Shan-tong''. As soon as he alighted he inquired for his father. His mother told him he was gone upon an affair of great importance: that there was a great officer or valiant man<ref>These seem to be synonymous in the Chinese language.</ref> to be brought to justice. He replied, "As there is a war, and valiant men are necessary at this critical juncture, why do they seek to destroy them? I will go and hear the trial: perhaps my father may be drawn over to the opinion of his colleagues, and not follow the dictates of his natural candour and justice." Then going to the audience<ref>Called ''Kong-sub-wum''. Transl. M.S.</ref>, he was struck with the sight of ''Hu-hiau'' already condemned, and bound, waiting for his execution; having been sentenced to lose his head three quarters of an hour after noon. There was a great crowd of spectators, through the midst of whom the youth forced his way to get nearer to the condemned person. He perceived him to be very young, but of a bold and dauntless aspect: his look wild and fierce as that of a tyger: his eyes fiery: his throat large, yet long like a crane's: his body strong and well set.<ref>What attention the Chinese pay to the complexion and features of their generals, we may learn from Dionys. Kao, a native of China. This honest writer describing the image of ''Quan-in-chang'' [who may be considered as the Mars of the Chinese] tells us, that its face is painted of a very deep blood colour. "Which sort of countenance, he adds, is highly esteemed by the military men: nay, the whole Chinese nation imagine him [rather it] very propitious to them, and fancy that such a fiery flaming face will inspire them with valour, and enable them to acquit themselves well." Vid. pag. 126.
−
Ji~ his :head thrieie q1,11r~ers of an ,h_our
 
−
~ft~r nooQ. Th~r~ !N~ a gr~at Cf9Vf4
 
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.Qf .fp.~~at;Or#,, thro;ugh -the ,mj~~ c;j
 
−
.whQUl th_e yowtl} forc<;d his way μ:, g.qt
 
−
,11<ea,rer to the <.;oilder-Jlqeq pe;f 9n: l:I~
 
−
~t<:i!i~d hiro t9,be very youpg, ~4
 
−
ia boJ.<t ~d daun~lefs ;if_ peql:: h,is loo~wilp.
 
−
J\l.;}(il 6,erce as ~bat of a tyger :· l1is t~
 
−
,fi&y : l1is thro_at J~rge., yet long like~
 
−
:Cr;me's: his body {hong and well feet. ·
 
−
'Iieht
 
−
What attention the Chinefl pay to th_cn:omplcxion
 
−
and fraturcs of their _generals_, we tn~
 
−
learn from Dionys. Kao, a .n;itive of Chin11. Th 1,
 
−
. hQnell: writer dcfcribing the innge of ffl..tfan-inchang
 
−
[who may be ,confidered as the Mat's of
 
−
the Chinefl] teJ:s us, that ics face is painted of a
 
−
a very deep blood colour. " Which fort .of
 
−
" countenance, he adds, is highly elleemed ,by
 
−
. " the Dlilitary men; nay, the whole Chinefjt
 
−
" nation imagine him[1'athe1' itJ very prqpitious
 
−
" to them, and fancy that foch a fiery flamiqg
 
−
" facewiU infpirc them with valo11r, ;.nd cn;ibie
 
−
K z " th'tm
 
  
−
·132
+
But it is not merely from the opinion of its being propitious to themselves, but also with the politic view of frighting their enemies, that the Chinese affect a fierce dreadful look in their generals. ''Martinius'' speaks of it as an established custom, handed down from very early times, for them to paint the general, (who gains the first place in their triennial examinations) armed and of a gigantic stature, and to send this picture round to the neighbouring nations, in order to strike them with terror. Vid. ''Hist.'' pag. 405.
−
'Iieb-chung-u wondered what default
 
−
of duty that man could be' guilty of
 
−
who had fo promifing an appearance.
 
−
He went up to him, " Sir, faid he,
 
−
of what can they have accufed you,
 
−
who feem to be fo valiant a pcrfon·?
 
−
How is it, that you hive been beaten.
 
−
in war ?'' At this. the other flew into
 
−
a rage, and fternly faid, " A man can
 
−
die
 
−
" them to acquit themfelves well." Yid. pag.
 
−
126.
 
−
But it is not merely from the opinion of its
 
−
being propitious to themfelves, but alfo with
 
−
the politic view of frighting their enemies, that
 
−
the Cbin,ji affea a fierce dreadful look in their •
 
−
generals. Marti11i111 fpeaks of it as an ellablilhed
 
−
c:uftom, handed down from very early times, for
 
−
them to paint the general, (who gains the firft
 
−
place in their triennial examinations) armed and
 
−
of a gigantic tlature. and to fend this pitlure
 
−
round to the neighbouring nations, in order to
 
−
tlrike them with terror. Yid. Hijl.pag. 405. .
 
−
That the Chinefi ftill aa upon the fame t"iewa,
 
−
WC
 
  
−
A · CHINESE HISTORY. 133
+
That the Chinese still act upon the same views, we learn from the elegant writer of Lord ''Anson'''s voyage; for when the English were to pass by one of the Chinese castles, among other artifices to make them think more reverently of their military power, they had set a soldier of unusual size, to stalk about on the parapet with a battle-ax in his hand, and dressed in very sightly armour, which yet our people suspected was only made of glittering paper. See pag. 540.
−
die· . but once : and it matters not in
 
−
what manner he dies~ But I thae
 
−
have ftrength in my arms to carry the
 
−
weight of ren peculs •, and am mafter
 
−
of eighteen differc:Qt weapons t, how
 
−
fhould
 
−
we learn from the elegant writer of Lord Anfon's
 
−
~yagt; for when the Eoglilh were to pafs by
 
−
one of the Chintfl caftles, among other artifices
 
−
to make them think more reverently of their
 
−
military power, they had feta foldier of unufual
 
−
tize, to flalk about on the parapet with a battleax
 
−
in his hand. and dreffed in very fightly armour,
 
−
which yet our people fufpected was only
 
−
made of glittering paper. Su pag. 540.
 
−
Thefe ridiculous and childifh expedients arc
 
−
fufficient to convince us of the unwarlike turn
 
−
of the Chintfl, and at how low an ebb is their
 
−
military prowefs.
 
−
• The Pecul (called by the Portoguefe Pico,
 
−
and by the Chintfl 'Tan,) conlifls of one hundred
 
−
Catti'or Chintfl pounds, and of about one hundred
 
−
and twenty-five rounds European weight.
 
−
P. Semedo, p. 72. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 576.
 
−
Kempfer, p. 367.----Stti vitft Dampitr/up,
 
−
Plem. pag. 132. + To give a fuort defcription of the military
 
−
K 3 elbo,,,
 
−
,,,, ,,
 
−
i# HAU KlOU . CHOAAN.:
 
−
fhmtfd I be bea:teti by any one ?" What'
 
−
Hav~ i loft ? 'Ti!t all falfely laid td
 
−
iriy t:h:trge. This I foietnnly decrare:
 
−
lldwever I mull: die: be it fo.•t "That
 
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is cen.ain~ replied the youth ; and yet
 
−
if
 
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~alllifhmertt a:nd difdpline of the Chiitrfi1 wt
 
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mat obferve that as the Chinefe h<1ve different
 
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~egre~~ for their literary Mandarines, fo thet
 
−
have fhnilar degrees fot their Mandarines of wat:
 
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attd bave 1'llilitary .Bachelt!i-t, Licentiates ·artcl
 
−
Dcclb/·j: in like martner as in France, they had
 
−
formerly knights belonging to the law, as well
 
−
as _t~e army. , ·
 
−
The 1nartner of their military examination~
 
−
ls tfot unlike thofe for the litetary degrees. [See
 
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t\ote, tol. t. p. 8.] The candidates have a th·eme
 
−
or fobjea given them relating to the art of war,
 
−
ert which they are to compote di{ft:rtations and
 
−
difcourfes in writing. This done, they are re-:
 
−
quired to !hew their !kill in !hooting, riding am\
 
−
managing their arms, and to_give various proof~
 
−
of th1!ir dexterity and firength. It is feldom
 
−
that any are admitted into command without
 
−
having ·taken one or other of thefe degrees.
 
−
The Mand:irines are required often to exercife
 
−
and i-eview the foldiery. · Wh:ch however conufts
 
−
oo -~ ,
 
−
- 135
 
−
if y Qu had not been guilty of the charge
 
−
laid :agafaft you, why {hou]d juftice
 
−
be ex~r~-ed in fo extraordinary a maneirr
 
−
? But if you have any thing to
 
−
aUedge in your vindication, you muill
 
−
~fts qnJy ip fome ciford,rly zwir~hes, in mal<ing
 
−
mock lights, and in rallying to the found of
 
−
horns and trumpets. Not but they are taugh~
 
−
to draw the bow and handle the fabre with
 
−
great addrefs : and efpeciall y are required to
 
−
lceep their. arms and afmour bright and clean.
 
−
As the milit,uy life in China is leldom attended
 
−
either with toil Qr d<!nger, from the almoft con~
 
−
tinual peace and tranqqil!ity of t)1e empire, it is
 
−
bellowed as a favour on fuch ;is ca,n make friend,
 
−
with the Mandarines, their fcrvice being commonly
 
−
confined to the places of their abode, and.
 
−
is only to fupprefs robbers, &c. fo that they
 
−
m.1y at proper times follow their own employJPCJ}
 
−
O.-The military Mandarines are computed
 
−
at 1$,opo, and the foldiery at above 700,oco.
 
−
The pay of a foot foldier is about five pence
 
−
;ind a pint of rice per day : and of the horfe iQ,
 
−
proportion. ·
 
−
P. D1,1 Halde, v. 1. p. 260. &c, P. Seme.qo,
 
−
p. 96. &c. Mod. Univ, Hilt viii. r So·
 
−
Lettres.edif. R. 5. p. 1;6.
 
−
K 4 fpeak,
 
−
og; ,oobyGooglc
 
−
136  • .
 
−
fpeak, now is your time . ., Hu-biau
 
−
fetched a deep frgh and only faid, " The
 
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prefent times are vile and corruptrd."
 
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" Well, faid <J'ieb-chung-u, if you are
 
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unwilling to break through your referve,
 
−
I will only afk you one thing ;
 
−
fuppofing you fuould be releafcd, would
 
−
you undertake to go now againft the
 
−
enemy." " Why not? replied he; is
 
−
it not my duty ? To do it a thoufand
 
−
times, I fuould look upon as no ..
 
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thing." The youth faid no more to
 
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him, but afked the people what o'clock
 
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it was, and was anfwered paft ten.
 
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Upon which he opened a way through
 
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the cro_wd, and got into the hall of
 
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audience, where were feated the three
 
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prefidents of the tribunal. He cried
 
−
out aloud, " Health to you all, my
 
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Lord,!
 
  
−
f3.7
+
These ridiculous and childish expedients are sufficient to convince us of the unwarlike turn of the Chinese, and at how low an ebb is their military prowess.</ref>
−
Lords ! You are all great officers· under
 
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his Majefty: it- therefore behoves:
 
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you to do your beft for the public,
 
−
weal. · At prefent there is great, want
 
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of men of valour ; and none can be
 
−
got notwithftanding the proclamation
 
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for fuch to appear. The manner of
 
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your prefent proceedings tends not to
 
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the advantage, but the detriment of the
 
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empire. Pray is this man facrificed
 
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to public juftice, or any private confideration
 
−
?" The three Mandarines, who
 
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had not very willingly paffed fentence
 
−
upon Hu-hiau, but had don~ it merely
 
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to gratify their fuperiors, were not
 
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dif pleafed to fee a perfon appear in his
 
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vindication: although they were dif~
 
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gufted at the little refpect he lhewed
 
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them.
 
−
The
 
  
−
i38
+
''Tieh-chung-u'' wondered what default of duty that man could be guilty of who had so promising an appearance. He went up to him, "Sir, said he, of what can they have accused you, who seem to be so valiant a person? How is it, that you have been beaten in war?" At this the other flew into a rage, and sternly said, "A man can die but once: and it matters not in what manner he dies. But I that have strength in my arms to carry the weight of ten peculs<ref>The ''Pecul'' (called by the Portuguese ''Pico'', and by the Chinese ''Tan'',) consists of one hundred ''Catti'' or Chinese pounds, and of about one hundred and twenty-five pounds European weight. P. Semedo, p. 72. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 576. Kempfer, p. 367.----''Sed vide'' Dampier ''Suppl.'' pag. 132.</ref>, and am master of eighteen different weapons<ref>To give a short description of the military establishment and discipline of the Chinese, we may observe that as the Chinese have different degrees for their literary Mandarines, so they have similar degrees for their Mandarines of war: and have military Bachelors, Licentiates and Doctors: in like manner as in France, they had formerly knights belonging to the law, as well as the army.
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Tht Prefident of Crimes after fQmt:
 
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time, perceived he wils :the fon of their
 
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colleague, the Supreme Viceroy : who
 
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alfo himfelf difcov.ered who he WM.
 
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Upon which he ftruck his hand .on tho
 
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table and faid, "How dare you ,ome
 
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here in t~ impertinent and bQld inlUlner,
 
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w.here it is death to do it ? T akc
 
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hold of him and bind him. I acknow-,
 
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ledge no relation to him in this place."
 
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'Ei1b-1hu,,g-u cried out," No, no: ~t
 
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is not juftice: hear me before. you or.,.
 
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der me to be feized. I only afk your
 
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Lordfhips, why. doth: the Emperor
 
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place the drum at the gate of his palace,
 
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but that the people may have rcdrc:fs
 
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there, when they can obtain it no where
 
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elfe ?" The Supreme Viceroy faid,
 
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" Who are you ? and what acquaintr
 
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3 ance
 
  
−
A . CHINESE HISTORY. 1,9
+
The manner of their military examinations is not unlike those for the literary degrees. [See note, vol. 1. p. 8.] The candidates have a theme or subject given them relating to the art of war, on which they are to compose dissertations and discourses in writing. This done, they are required to shew their skill in shooting, riding and managing their arms, and to give various proofs of their dexterity and strength. It is seldom that any are admitted into command without having taken one or other of these degrees.
−
ance :have you with die condemned
 
−
perfori ?;, He iinf were:d, " I .know him
 
−
ilot, ·buc perceiving him ·io be a valiana:
 
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man; and one that may do his country
 
−
and the Emperor iertice, [I came in his
 
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behatf1 )" His father replied, " What
 
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bufindfs ·i~ -it of your's what he is, ot
 
−
what h(? tah• do ?" ihen he ordered tht
 
−
officers attending the . tribunal to take
 
−
and bind him. The two other Man ..
 
−
rlarines defired his imprifonment might
 
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be deferred for a moment, and calling
 
−
him to· the ,. table before the tribunal~
 
−
faid, ·0 :You ;fhew a goocfintention and
 
−
'found ptihoiple in what you fay, but
 
−
ybu muft confider that things muft
 
−
·be carried <>n acconlitlg tb [the forms
 
−
'of] juft:ice, and not with fo mudi
 
−
precipitation. llu-hitJU hath been .a
 
−
year
 
  
−
140 ·
+
The Mandarines are required often to exercise and review the soldiery. Which however consists only in some disorderly marches, in making mock fights, and in rallying to the sound of horns and trumpets. Not but they are taught to draw the bow and handle the sabre with great address: and especially are required to keep their arms and armour bright and clean. As the military life in China is seldom attended either with toil or danger, from the almost continual peace and tranquillity of the empire, it is bestowed as a favour on such as can make friends with the Mandarines, their service being commonly confined to the places of their abode, and is only to suppress robbers, &c. so that they may at proper times follow their own employments.----The military Mandarines are computed at 18,000, and the soldiery at above 700,000. The pay of a foot soldier is about five pence and a pint of rice per day: and of the horse in proportion.
−
year i:n prifon, and the Mandarine
 
−
Shuey-1ceu-ye as long in banitbment ;
 
−
and hitherto none have appeared in their
 
−
behalf. The former ,of thefe hath today
 
−
been brought to his trial, and been
 
−
condemned : to acquit him now would
 
−
be ridiculous, and caufe a deal of confufion
 
−
and anger from the Emperor.
 
−
The Mandarine,Kwo:fhofu hath already
 
−
informed his Majefty of the fontence of
 
−
deat!l paft by us : how then is it poffible
 
−
to recall it?" '.lieh-chung-u hearing thefe
 
−
words, fetched a deep · figh; and faid,
 
−
" What you have done is all out of regard
 
−
to your own interefts; and not to
 
−
the good of your·country. Your Lordfhips
 
−
cannot but know, that in former
 
−
days it was· frequent for Mandarine_s to
 
−
oppofe injuftice; or at leaft to refufe
 
−
to
 
  
−
[p. 141]
+
P. Du Halde, v. 1. p. 260. &c. P. Semedo, p. 96. &c. Mod. Univ. Hist. viii. 150. Lettres edif. R. 5. p. 136.</ref>, how should I be beaten by any one? What have I lost? 'Tis all falsely laid to my charge. This I solemnly declare. However I must die: be it so." "That is certain, replied the youth; and yet if you had not been guilty of the charge laid against you, why should justice be exerted in so extraordinary a manner? But if you have any thing to alledge in your vindication, you must speak, now is your time." ''Hu-hiau'' fetched a deep sigh and only said, "The present times are vile and corrupted." "Well, said ''Tieh-chung-u'', if you are unwilling to break through your reserve, I will only ask you one thing; supposing you should be released, would you undertake to go now against the enemy." "Why not? replied he; is it not my duty? To do it a thousand times, I should look upon as nothing." The youth said no more to him, but asked the people what o'clock it was, and was answered past ten. Upon which he opened a way through the crowd, and got into the hall of audience, where were seated the three presidents of the tribunal. He cried out aloud, "Health to you all, my Lords! You are all great officers under his Majesty: it therefore behoves you to do your best for the public weal. At present there is great want of men of valour; and none can be got notwithstanding the proclamation for such to appear. The manner of your present proceedings tends not to the advantage, but the detriment of the empire. Pray is this man sacrificed to public justice, or any private consideration?" The three Mandarines, who had not very willingly passed sentence upon ''Hu-hiau'', but had done it merely to gratify their superiors, were not displeased to see a person appear in his vindication: although they were disgusted at the little respect he shewed them.
−
to do any thing in prejudice of their
 
−
country, or againft their confcience,
 
−
notwithft.anding it might be flrong1y
 
−
preffed upon .them by the Emperor
 
−
himfe1f *. Wherefore do you ftudy
 
−
law and jufrice, if thus you act fubfervient
 
−
to higher powers ?"
 
−
The
 
−
• Among a people fo interefted as the Chinefl,
 
−
it will not be wondered at that reafon and jutlice
 
−
are frequently given up en the fiightell intimation
 
−
of the Emperor's pleafure : and yet the
 
−
hitlory of China can produce fome infiances
 
−
of firmnefs and integrity in oppofing oppreffive
 
−
. meafures, that would do honour to the patriots
 
−
of Greece and Rome. There have been minifiers,
 
−
who have gone to make remonfirances to the
 
−
Emperor with fuch firm expettation of death
 
−
for their boldnefs, that they have carried . their
 
−
coffins with them to the gate of the palace. [ Su
 
−
P. Le Comptt, tot11. 2.p. 35 . P. D• Halde, 1.p.
 
−
250.] And with what delicacy and addrefs
 
−
they can fometimes refirain the paffions of their
 
−
princes may be fecn in the following inftance. ·
 
−
" The.king of 'I.Ji, faith a Cbin1t author, h~d
 
−
a horfe which he loved, and this horfe died thro'
 
−
the
 
  
−
;I¥. .f:iJ\{J . JqpU CHOA;t).N,.
+
The President of Crimes after some time, perceived he was the son of their colleague, the Supreme Viceroy: who also himself discovered who he was. Upon which he struck his hand on the table and said, "How dare you come here in this impertinent and bold manner, where it is death to do it? Take hold of him and bind him. I acknowledge no relation to him in this place." ''Tieh-chung-u'' cried out, "No, no: that is not justice: hear me before you order me to be seized. I only ask your Lordships, why doth the Emperor place the drum at the gate of his palace, but that the people may have redress there, when they can obtain it no where else?" The Supreme Viceroy said, "Who are you? and what acquaintance have you with the condemned person?" He answered, "I know him not, but perceiving him to be a valiant man, and one that may do his country and the Emperor service, [I came in his behalf.]" His father replied, "What business is it of your's what he is, or what he can do?" Then he ordered the officers attending the tribunal to take and bind him. The two other Mandarines desired his imprisonment might be deferred for a moment, and calling him to the table before the tribunal, said, "You shew a good intention and sound principle in what you say, but you must consider that things must be carried on according to [the forms of] justice, and not with so much precipitation. ''Hu-hiau'' hath been a year in prison, and the Mandarine ''Shuey-keu-ye'' as long in banishment; and hitherto none have appeared in their behalf. The former of these hath to-day been brought to his trial, and been condemned: to acquit him now would be ridiculous, and cause a deal of confusion and anger from the Emperor. The Mandarine ''Kwo-sho-su'' hath already informed his Majesty of the sentence of death past by us: how then is it possible to recall it?" ''Tieh-chung-u'' hearing these words, fetched a deep sigh, and said, "What you have done is all out of regard to your own interests, and not to the good of your country. Your Lordships cannot but know, that in former days it was frequent for Mandarines to oppose injustice; or at least to refuse to do any thing in prejudice of their country, or against their conscience, notwithstanding it might be strongly pressed upon them by the Emperor himself.<ref>Among a people so interested as the Chinese, it will not be wondered at that reason and justice are frequently given up on the slightest intimation of the Emperor's pleasure: and yet the history of China can produce some instances of firmness and integrity in opposing oppressive measures, that would do honour to the patriots of Greece and Rome. There have been ministers, who have gone to make remonstrances to the Emperor with such firm expectation of death for their boldness, that they have carried their coffins with them to the gate of the palace. [See P. Le Compte, tom. 2. p. 35. P. Du Halde, 1. p. 250.] And with what delicacy and address they can sometimes restrain the passions of their princes may be seen in the following instance.
−
'):he two ,Otijer jMandar~nes to ,WhQfll
 
−
,he addrelfed htm~Jf had (lorhing tp
 
−
,reply: bl.ltihi~ fatlM:r ,cried Ol.lt, u What!
 
−
-are you maA ? 1 -~I yQμ ic;ntience is
 
−
·.the negletl of~i, groom. The Fri11ce in a .rage
 
−
fnatched up a lance a.nd :was g.oing t.o difpatcJ1
 
−
him. The Mandarine r en-tfa who was prefent
 
−
turned afide tke blow, .and infiaotly .addre1Iillg
 
−
himfelfto his mailer, faid, "Sire, that man was
 
−
. pn the point of lofing his life before he knew
 
−
the heinoufnefs of hi, crime." " I confent, faid
 
−
the king, that you make him fenfible of it."
 
−
Then the minifu:r taking up.the lance and aiming
 
−
_it at the criminal : " Wretch, fu.id he:. ,attaod to
 
−
.your ,crimes, wbich are 1aa .follows.; .in .the .fu:ft
 
−
. place, you h~e caufed the death .of a. horfe,
 
−
. which yo.ur ·prince ·committed .to ,your -efpecial
 
−
care, and thereby-have dcfencd death. Second •
 
−
. ly ; you have caufed my prince to fall into fuoh
 
−
.:a .paffion, that be would have :killed you .with
 
−
his own hands : behold aoo1her crime more
 
−
· grievo,w; than the -firft. Laftly ; you would have
 
−
· caufed all .the other princes and neighbouring
 
−
ftates to have foen that my prince will take
 
−
away a man's ·Jjfe for the death of .a har(e,
 
−
and thus his reputation.wou' ~ have ,been ruined: .
 
−
· and y.ou, wretch, are tile occ:afion of all ,this.""
 
−
Let him go, faid the prince; 'let him go : I
 
−
.pardon ·his fault." P. Dullalde, ¥ol. 1. ,p. 600.
 
−
paffed
 
  
−
A CHINESE lllSTORY. 14J
+
"The king of ''Tsi'', saith a Chinese author, had a horse which he loved, and this horse died thro' the neglect of his groom. The Prince in a rage snatched up a lance and was going to dispatch him. The Mandarine ''Yen-tsa'' who was present turned aside the blow, and instantly addressing himself to his master, said, 'Sire, that man was on the point of losing his life before he knew the heinousness of his crime.' 'I consent, said the king, that you make him sensible of it.' Then the minister taking up the lance and aiming it at the criminal: 'Wretch, said he, attend to your crimes, which are as follows; in the first place, you have caused the death of a horse, which your prince committed to your especial care, and thereby have deserved death. Secondly; you have caused my prince to fall into such a passion, that he would have killed you with his own hands: behold another crime more grievous than the first. Lastly; you would have caused all the other princes and neighbouring states to have seen that my prince will take away a man's life for the death of a horse, and thus his reputation would have been ruined: and you, wretch, are the occasion of all this.' 'Let him go, said the prince; let him go: I pardon his fault.'" P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 600.</ref> Wherefore do you study law and justice, if thus you act subservient to higher powers?"
−
pnffi:d, and he muft die." Thde
 
−
words very much :grieved 'Iieb-chung-u.
 
−
who faid, " Will you then have no pity
 
−
on fo brave and valiant a man as this ?"
 
−
u Ht1-'hiau, replied the Supreme Viceroy,
 
−
is condemned according to law,
 
−
and his death muft be looked upon
 
−
with no more remorfe than that of a
 
−
:kid. Of what fervice would pity be,
 
−
.where it is out of our power to relieve
 
−
bim ?" " This is no common perfon,
 
−
faid his fon, you do not know his
 
−
qualifications, he is not to be matched
 
−
among all the great men, that guard
 
−
.the wa:11 of ten thoufand furlongs t.
 
−
Jc
 
−
If' -Yim-Ii 'rehang 'Tcbing, i.e. " The wall of
 
−
ten thoufand Lee, or 1ci,ooo Lee in length.'' It
 
−
is thus the Chineji fpeak of that ftupendous wall,
 
−
which 'feparates their northern provinc~ from ., Tuwy. .
 
−
Thi&
 
−
144 H.AU IGOU CHOAAN.
 
−
It hath been cuftomary when fuch men
 
−
have committed. a fault: not to put
 
−
them to death, but to let them take it
 
−
This prodigious work was undertaken two hun.
 
−
dred and fifteen years before Ch rill, to fecure three
 
−
great provinces from the irrupriom of the Tartars.
 
−
In order to execute it, every third man
 
−
was draughted out of each of the provinces.
 
−
To lay the foundation on the fea coa!l:, feveral
 
−
lhips were funk loaded with ftones and iron.
 
−
The workmen were not to leave the lea!l: chink
 
−
between the !l:ones on forfeiture of their liv~s :
 
−
hence the work is almoft as intirc at prefent, as
 
−
when it \\as firll built. It is about 6fceen hundred
 
−
miles in length, and broad enough for fi.rc
 
−
borfomen to ride a-breaft upon it.
 
−
Thi, wall is admirable on two accounts. Firft
 
−
that in its courfe from eafi to well:, it runs in feveral
 
−
places with a gradual afcent over very high
 
−
mountains, and is fortified with very large towers
 
−
no more than two bow-lhots afunder. Thi:
 
−
fecond is, that this wall does not run in a firaight
 
−
line, but turns and wi0ds in feveral places, according
 
−
to the difpofition of the mountains,
 
−
fo that the north part of China may be faid tQ be
 
−
cncompaffed with three walls inll:ead of one.
 
−
This work was but five years in building.
 
−
P. Du Halde, vol. p. 20. 260. &c. Martin. Nlas.
 
−
p. 15. &.:c. P. Le Compte, tom. 1. p. 115.
 
−
off
 
−
[p. 145]
 
−
off [ attonc f{)r ii J by fome fervice
 
−
or other of great• importance co their.
 
−
country; Why then fhould not this
 
−
man be fuffered to take off his_ crime:
 
−
in the fame manner?" The two Mandarioes
 
−
agreed it was reafonable: " But
 
−
who, faid they, will be fecurity for his
 
−
performing filch actions, as £hall merit
 
−
a pardon?" CJ'ieb-cbung-u faid, "I will.
 
−
reftorc him but co his former office, and
 
−
if he does not anf wer your expectations,
 
−
then take off my head.,.
 
−
The two other Mandarines difcourfed
 
−
the matter over with his father : " As
 
−
your fon, faid they, hath offered himfelf
 
−
fecurity for Hu-hiau here before all
 
−
the world, we are thereby impowered codraw
 
−
up a petition in his behalf, with-
 
−
V OL, III. L out
 
  
−
146- HAU KIOU Cl-lOAAN.
+
The two other Mandarines to whom he addressed himself had nothing to reply: but his father cried out, "What! are you mad? I tell you sentence is passed, and he must die." These words very much grieved ''Tieh-chung-u'', who said, "Will you then have no pity on so brave and valiant a man as this?" "''Hu-hiau'', replied the Supreme Viceroy, is condemned according to law, and his death must be looked upon with no more remorse than that of a kid. Of what service would pity be, where it is out of our power to relieve him?" "This is no common person, said his son, you do not know his qualifications, he is not to be matched among all the great men, that guard the wall of ten thousand furlongs.<ref>''Yun-li-Tchang-Tching'', i. e. "The wall of ten thousand ''Lee'', or 10,000 ''Lee'' in length." It is thus the Chinese speak of that stupendous wall, which separates their northern provinces from Tartary.
−
out the imputation of partiality, or of
 
−
taking illegal fteps to fave his lire.,.
 
−
The Supreme Viceroy perceiving this
 
−
was no more than reafonable, ordered
 
−
the criminal to be fent back to prifon,
 
−
and commanded CJ'ieb-chung-u to draw
 
−
up a writing of fecurity in his behalf.
 
−
Which being done and properly figned.
 
−
he ordered a chain to be fixed round
 
−
his neck, and fent him to pri~m after
 
−
the general.
 
−
The three Mandarines after this
 
−
drew up a petition, wherein they acquainted
 
−
his Majefty with their proceed•
 
−
ings. As it was a time of war, bufi
 
−
nefs was not long btfore it was difpatched,
 
−
fo that if a Mandarine gave
 
−
in a petition one day, his Majeftt
 
−
l would
 
  
−
[p. 147]
+
This prodigious work was undertaken two hundred and fifteen years before Christ, to secure three great provinces from the irruptions of the Tartars. In order to execute it, every third man was draughted out of each of the provinces. To lay the foundation on the sea coast, several ships were sunk loaded with stones and iron. The workmen were not to leave the least chink between the stones on forfeiture of their lives: hence the work is almost as intire at present, as when it was first built. It is about fifteen hundred miles in length, and broad enough for six horsemen to ride a-breast upon it.
−
would aofwer it himfelf the next. The
 
−
Emperor anf wered their petition in the
 
−
following manner.
 
−
" Whereas there 1s a great want
 
−
" of men of valour to ferve in the
 
−
" wars without the wall ; and wherea!J
 
−
." 'l'ieh-chung-u, fon of the Supreme
 
−
" Viceroy, hath offrred himfdf as fe,
 
−
'' curity for the good behaviour of
 
−
" Hu-biau ; I therefore fulpend his exe"
 
−
cution, and invell him with the
 
−
" fame command he had heretofore.
 
−
" I lrkewife give him a fword to put
 
−
" to death any perfon that fhall dif"
 
−
obey comm·and, or neglect his du"
 
−
ty : and wherever the war may be,
 
−
" he hath full power to command there,
 
−
~ as I expect he will be no where [ im,.
 
−
L 2 "properly]
 
  
−
[p. 148]
+
This wall is admirable on two accounts. First that in its course from east to west, it runs in several places with a gradual ascent over very high mountains, and is fortified with very large towers no more than two bow-shots asunder. The second is, that this wall does not run in a straight line, but turns and winds in several places, according to the disposition of the mountains, so that the north part of China may be said to be encompassed with three walls instead of one.
−
" properly j abfent. \\Therefore if he
 
−
., behaves well, and comes off with
 
−
" fuccefs, my favour Jhall exalt him :
 
−
'' otherwife he fhall feel his punHh"
 
−
ment the heavier.
 
−
" Shuey-!ceu-yi firft recommended
 
−
" and affifted him, and now 'Iieh"
 
−
chu11g -u hath offered himfelf for his.
 
−
" fecurity : after this if he doth ·not
 
−
" behave well, I Jhall feverely call to
 
−
" · account thofe two fCrfons, as much
 
−
" deferving to be punifhed as himfelf.
 
−
" Wherefore let him well confider
 
−
" this, and forthwith depart to his
 
−
" charge."
 
−
This order was carried by a Mandarine
 
−
properly attended to Hu-hiau~
 
−
whom together with 'licb-,hung-u. they
 
−
took
 
  
−
[p. 149]
+
This work was but five years in building. P. Du Halde, vol. p. 20. 260. &c. Martin. Atlas. p. 15. &c. P. Le Compte, tom. 1. p. 115.</ref> It hath been customary when such men have committed a fault: not to put them to death, but to let them take it off [attone for it] by some service or other of great importance to their country. Why then should not this man be suffered to take off his crime in the same manner?" The two Mandarines agreed it was reasonable: "But who, said they, will be security for his performing such actions, as shall merit a pardon?" ''Tieh-chung-u'' said, "I will. Restore him but to his former office, and if he does not answer your expectations, then take off my head."
−
took out of prifon. Thefe two perfons
 
−
went to return thanks to the three
 
−
Mandarines their judges : and after•.
 
−
wards took up their abode in the houfe
 
−
of the Supreme Viceroy; where they
 
−
got every thing ready in order to re.
 
−
pair to the wars. Two days after they
 
−
departed for their charge properly *
 
−
equipped, with a gallant i:etinue of foldiers
 
−
and other attendants; and being
 
−
arrived at the wall, the officers there .
 
−
fhewed them great ref pect, feeing Rubia"
 
−
• As the limary Mandarines travel in great
 
−
pomp to their governments, 1.arried in fed ans, &c.
 
−
fo the military Mandarines, who travel commonly
 
−
on horfeback, no lefs alfott an air of gran-
 
−
, deur. Indeed their horLs are r.ot very beautiful,
 
−
but their harnel:; is extremely fumptuous,
 
−
the bits and ftirrups being either filver or gilt.
 
−
'!'he Caddle is very rich : the reins of the bridk
 
−
are m1dc of coarfe pinked fattin two lingers
 
−
L 3 l:road •.
 
  
−
[p. 150]
+
The two other Mandarines discoursed the matter over with his father: "As your son, said they, hath offered himself security for ''Hu-hiau'' here before all the world, we are thereby impowered to draw up a petition in his behalf, without the imputation of partiality, or of taking illegal steps to save his life." The Supreme Viceroy perceiving this was no more than reasonable, ordered the criminal to be sent back to prison, and commanded ''Tieh-chung-u'' to draw up a writing of security in his behalf. Which being done and properly signed, he ordered a chain to be fixed round his neck, and sent him to prison after the general.
−
biatt return with the Emperor's f word.
 
−
They had not been gone fix months,
 
−
before this general had fuch fignal foctefs,
 
−
that he put an end to the war,
 
−
and every where re eftablifhed peace
 
−
and tranquillity.. Upon which the
 
−
Emperor advanced him to a higher
 
−
command, and refl:ored Shuey-A.e11-yi to
 
−
his former office. His Majefty alfo
 
−
applauded the wifdom and integrity of
 
−
c_(ieh-chtmg-t1, and would have created
 
−
him doctor of law: but the youth
 
−
bro:id. From the upper part of the chcll: hang
 
−
two great locks of fine red hair (fuch as their
 
−
caps are covered with) fufpended by iron rings
 
−
either gilt or lilvered. Their retinue confifis of
 
−
,a gre1t number of horfemen, p1rt going before
 
−
and part behind them: without reckoning
 
−
th~ir domcllics, who are clad either in black
 
−
fattin or dyed calico, according to their mallcr·s
 
−
qu:i.lity.
 
−
P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p . .285.
 
−
ref1.ifed
 
  
−
A CHINE$E HISTORY~ 151
+
The three Mandarines after this drew up a petition, wherein they acquainted his Majesty with their proceedings. As it was a time of war, business was not long before it was dispatched, so that if a Mandarine gave in a petition one day, his Majesty would answer it himself the next. The Emperor answered their petition in the following manner.
−
tefqf~ to a<;c~pt of any fuch diftinction,
 
−
. for he faid unlefs he could arrive
 
−
~t, tha.t honour by his learning, he was.
 
−
u.n~onhy of it.
 
−
CH AP. IX.
 
−
T H E Mandarine Kwo /ho {t, was
 
−
. . . , fo mortified by this difappointmcnt
 
−
that he was afhamed to appear
 
−
in public, and begged to lay down his
 
−
office μoder pretence of indifpofition.
 
−
On the other h*nd, Sbuey-keu-ye had
 
−
no fooner returned to court but he
 
−
was made Shang-jhu, or Prefident [ of
 
−
the tribunal of arms.] The Manda- ·
 
−
.rines who had threatened him for refufing
 
−
to liften to their rropofals in
 
−
favour of Kwo Jho-fu and his fon, were
 
−
L 4 afraid
 
  
−
152 ~.
+
: "Whereas there is a great want of men of valour to serve in the wars without the wall; and whereas ''Tieh-chung-u'', son of the Supreme Viceroy, hath offered himself as security for the good behaviour of ''Hu-hiau''; I therefore suspend his execution, and invest him with the same command he had heretofore. I likewise give him a sword to put to death any person that shall disobey command, or neglect his duty: and wherever the war may be, he hath full power to command there, as I expect he will be no where [improperly] absent. Wherefore if he behaves well, and comes off with success, my favour shall exalt him: otherwise he shall feel his punishment the heavier.
−
afraid he would now remember · them.
 
−
But he told them when ·they came to
 
−
vifit him and a{k his pardon, that they
 
−
could not be blamed for acting aa
 
−
they did, and that the harm which
 
−
might have accrued was owing to him.,
 
−
fdf. As foon as he had waited on
 
−
the Emperor, he went immediately to
 
−
vifit the Supreme Viceroy and his fon.
 
−
That Mandarine received him in perfon,
 
−
but his fon was abfent: the other
 
−
inquired after him, but was told he
 
−
was gone into the country to ftudy.
 
−
" I am come, faid Shue;y-keu-ye, to pay
 
−
my acknowledgments to the young
 
−
gcntlr111an for the benefit I have received
 
−
from his wif<lom and courage;
 
−
and nothing would rejoice me fo much
 
−
· as to fee him." " To morrow, faid
 
−
his
 
  
−
15j
+
: "''Shuey-keu-ye'' first recommended and assisted him, and now ''Tieh-chung-u'' hath offered himself for his security: after this if he doth not behave well, I shall severely call to account those two persons, as much deserving to be punished as himself. Wherefore let him well consider this, and forthwith depart to his charge."
−
· his father, I will fend him to vifit
 
−
you." Upon which the other deparl ..
 
−
ed with great fatisfaction.
 
−
The Mandarine Tieh did not ap ..
 
−
prove of hls fon's keeping a great dt.al
 
−
of company, but could not avoid com. '
 
−
plying with the requeft of the Lord
 
−
Prefidenti he therefore fent to command
 
−
his fon to vifit him. 'l'ieb-cbung-u faid,
 
−
to the fervant who brought ,the mef,.
 
−
fage, 0 As that Mandaril}e only came
 
−
to fee us out of compliment, it will
 
−
be fufficient for my father to return it.
 
−
It would but interrupt my ftudies to
 
−
go to the city : where the public cero-
 
−
. monies would take up mor<.! time than I
 
−
can fpare ; and fo much company is
 
−
but irkfome." He th:reforc humbly
 
−
intreated
 
  
−
s54
+
This order was carried by a Mandarine properly attended to ''Hu-hiau'', whom together with ''Tieh-chung-u'' they took out of prison. These two persons went to return thanks to the three Mandarines their judges: and afterwards took up their abode in the house of the Supreme Viceroy; where they got every thing ready in order to repair to the wars. Two days after they departed for their charge properly equipped<ref>As the literary Mandarines travel in great pomp to their governments, carried in sedans, &c. so the military Mandarines, who travel commonly on horseback, no less affect an air of grandeur. Indeed their horses are not very beautiful, but their harness is extremely sumptuous, the bits and stirrups being either silver or gilt. The saddle is very rich: the reins of the bridle are made of coarse pinked sattin two fingers broad. From the upper part of the chest hang two great locks of fine red hair (such as their caps are covered with) suspended by iron rings either gilt or silvered. Their retinue consists of a great number of horsemen, part going before and part behind them: without reckoning their domestics, who are clad either in black sattin or dyed calico, according to their master's quality.
−
intreated his. fatlttr not to engage fur
 
−
any return of vjfi.ts to be made by him.
 
−
The fervant reported his meff.ige tc»
 
−
his mafter, who was fo well fatisfied
 
−
with it, that he went and returned
 
−
the vifit alone. Sbuey-keu~Ja <li\.oo for
 
−
his fon : and the other apologiMd fof
 
−
his abfence \lnder pretence tha.t he wa,
 
−
indifpofcd. " Very well, replied he,
 
−
it is the cuilom of people of fenfe and
 
−
ingenuity not to be forward in mais.ing
 
−
themfelves public: as your fon. is a
 
−
youth of great wifdom, and chufci; tQ
 
−
live fequeftered from pub!i<; company,
 
−
l will go to his boufr, and fee him
 
−
there." After a* little farth~r dii~our[e
 
−
they parted.
 
−
·• In the original," After two wordsdVcourfe."
 
−
The
 
  
−
A' CHINESE HISTORY. t5j
+
P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 285.</ref>, with a gallant retinue of soldiers and other attendants; and being arrived at the wall, the officers there shewed them great respect, seeing ''Hu-hiau'' return with the Emperor's sword. They had not been gone six months, before this general had such signal success, that he put an end to the war, and every where re-established peace and tranquillity. Upon which the Emperor advanced him to a higher command, and restored ''Shuey-keu-ye'' to his former office. His Majesty also applauded the wisdom and integrity of ''Tieh-chung-u'', and would have created him doctor of law: but the youth refused to accept of any such distinction, for he said unless he could arrive at that honour by his learning, he was unworthy of it.
−
The Mandarine Sbuey-keu-ye thought
 
−
it a' great proof of the young gen"'I
 
−
tleman's difcretion and . good fenfe.,
 
−
that "11e chofe tQ · be retired. It increafed
 
−
his defire to fee him. H~
 
−
had formed in his_ mind fo favourable
 
−
an opinion of him, that he
 
−
thought he would be a very proper
 
−
match for his daughter, whorn nQW
 
−
he began to think of marrying, Ho
 
−
accordingly ferit a fervant to the village,
 
−
where '.fieb-chlt!Zg-u at prefent refided,
 
−
to fee if he were at home, and
 
−
being informed that he was, he went
 
−
to fee him on the morrow t : oi
 
−
which he gave him the cuftomary
 
−
notice.
 
−
t In the original, "Two days after," or rather
 
−
" on the fecond diy."
 
−
The
 
  
−
l56 '
+
CHAP. IX.
−
: The natne of the village was Sii-jha11,
 
−
or Weft-mountain, where 'l'ieb-cbu11g-u
 
−
lived retired ; -he had · juft dined when
 
−
he received not:ice ·that the Mandarine
 
−
Shuey-keu -ye intended him a vifit : the
 
−
name brought to his mind his beauti:
 
−
ui daughter Shuey-ping-Jin, which caufed
 
−
him to fetch a deep ligh, and led
 
−
him to reflect. on the wonderful manner
 
−
in which tHings had happened.
 
−
" I little thought, faid he, of contri"."
 
−
buting to the reft9ration of that young
 
−
lady's father, when I became Jurety
 
−
for Hu-hiau. I was not only the'
 
−
happy . inftrument of faving a brave
 
−
man from death, but of bringing
 
−
back to honour a Mandarine of fo
 
−
much merit, I might . r,ow afk him
 
−
for his daught::r in marriage; if I had
 
−
nut
 
  
−
[p. 157]
+
The Mandarine ''Kwo-sho-su'' was so mortified by this disappointment that he was ashamed to appear in public, and begged to lay down his office under pretence of indisposition. On the other hand, ''Shuey-keu-ye'' had no sooner returned to court but he was made ''Shang-shu'', or President [of the tribunal of arms.] The Mandarines who had threatened him for refusing to listen to their proposals in favour of ''Kwo-sho-su'' and his son, were afraid he would now remember them. But he told them when they came to visit him and ask his pardon, that they could not be blamed for acting as they did, and that the harm which might have accrued was owing to himself. As soon as he had waited on the Emperor, he went immediately to visit the Supreme Viceroy and his son. That Mandarine received him in person, but his son was absent: the other inquired after him, but was told he was gone into the country to study. "I am come, said ''Shuey-keu-ye'', to pay my acknowledgments to the young gentleman for the benefit I have received from his wisdom and courage; and nothing would rejoice me so much as to see him." "To morrow, said his father, I will send him to visit you." Upon which the other departed with great satisfaction.
−
not become acquainted with her at
 
−
the Che-hien' s tribunal ; and if fhe had
 
−
not received me afterwards into her
 
−
houfe. But alas ! , after all this public
 
−
intcrcourfe, our union is impoffi_ble,
 
−
unlefs I would bring all the calumny
 
−
in the world both upon her and myfelf;
 
−
and confirm the fufpicion of a private
 
−
correfpondence." He confidered
 
−
with himfelf whether it was not poffible
 
−
to find out fome means of getting over
 
−
this difficulty : [but his delicacy raifed
 
−
fo many fcruples, and painted the cenfure
 
−
of che world in fo terrible a lighr,
 
−
as extending not only to himfelf, but
 
−
his pofterity, that] at length he faid~
 
−
"I fhall be forced to refufe her, although
 
−
her father fhould ·make me the
 
−
offer." He was buried · in thefe dif•
 
−
tratl:ing
 
  
−
t5~
+
The Mandarine ''Tieh'' did not approve of his son's keeping a great deal of company, but could not avoid complying with the request of the Lord President; he therefore sent to command his son to visit him. ''Tieh-chung-u'' said, to the servant who brought the message, "As that Mandarine only came to see us out of compliment, it will be sufficient for my father to return it. It would but interrupt my studies to go to the city: where the public ceremonies would take up more time than I can spare; and so much company is but irksome." He therefore humbly intreated his father not to engage for any return of visits to be made by him. The servant reported his message to his master, who was so well satisfied with it, that he went and returned the visit alone. ''Shuey-keu-ye'' asked for his son: and the other apologized for his absence under pretence that he was indisposed. "Very well, replied he, it is the custom of people of sense and ingenuity not to be forward in making themselves public: as your son is a youth of great wisdom, and chuses to live sequestered from public company, I will go to his house, and see him there." After a little farther discourse<ref>In the original, "After two words discourse."</ref> they parted.
−
c:racting reflections, when there was
 
−
thewn into the room an old gentleman
 
−
dreffed in the habit of a docl:or of law :
 
−
who cried out, " lliong, or brother,
 
−
why are you fo difficult of accefs •, that
 
−
I could not fee you before to-day?"
 
−
" Surely, ~ir, faid the youth, you do
 
−
not know me, or you would not fay
 
−
this." Then he paid him the compliments
 
−
due to his appearance. When
 
−
thefe
 
−
• It appears from what follows that this is
 
−
Intended as a compliment.
 
−
In a former note, [ ruol. 2 . p. 90.] it hath been
 
−
hinted how reputable the charatler of a retired
 
−
fludent ia among the Chi11eji, and what iotenfe
 
−
application it commonly requires to obtain a
 
−
competent knowledge of their ~terature. The
 
−
Qpinion of the Chinefe themfclvcs on thi. head
 
−
will be learnt from tl:e following litt!e moral tale,
 
−
whica (Ontains a fine ldfon for perfcverance.
 
−
"Li-pE, who under the: dynafly of the Han, be.
 
−
came one of the lidl do&rs of the court. addi£
 
−
ted himfelf to hi, fludics from hi, childhood.
 
−
He
 
  
−
, A CHTNESE HISTORY. 159.
+
The Mandarine ''Shuey-keu-ye'' thought it a great proof of the young gentleman's discretion and good sense, that he chose to be retired. It increased his desire to see him. He had formed in his mind so favourable an opinion of him, that he thought he would be a very proper match for his daughter, whom now he began to think of marrying. He accordingly sent a servant to the village, where ''Tieh-chung-u'' at present resided, to see if he were at home, and being informed that he was, he went to see him on the morrow<ref>In the original, "Two days after," or rather "on the second day."</ref>: of which he gave him the customary notice.
−
thefe were o~er the old gentleman took
 
−
hold of his h:and, at1d looking earneftly
 
−
in his. face, faid, " When I only heard
 
−
of you, !,conceived a great efteem for
 
−
you ; which after all might poffibly
 
−
have been ill-grounded : but now I
 
−
muit confefs the fight of you increafes .
 
−
that eftecm, and gives me great fati-sfaction.
 
−
Y dterday I went to pay yoQ
 
−
He came one year to the general examinatlo11
 
−
of the province; but meeting with bad fuccefs,
 
−
he dtfpaircd of ever obtaining a degree:
 
−
he therefqre refolved to give up learning, and
 
−
to turn his views to fome other purfuit. While
 
−
he was ruminating on this Cubjecl:, he met with
 
−
an old woman, who was rubbing an iron pellle
 
−
co and fr(>' upon a whet-fione. "To what
 
−
purpofe do you do that ?" faid he t0 her. " I
 
−
want, replied fhe, to grind it down 'till it be•
 
−
comes fo lharp as to be fit for embroidering." ·
 
−
Li-pe took the hint, and returned to his fiudies,
 
−
to which he a\)plicd with fach renewed ardour,
 
−
that he at length attained to the highe!l employ~
 
−
ment,." P, Du Haide, vol. 1. pag. 386.
 
−
a vifit,
 
  
−
[p. 160]
+
The name of the village was ''See-shan'', or West-mountain, where ''Tieh-chung-u'' lived retired; he had just dined when he received notice that the Mandarine ''Shuey-keu-ye'' intended him a visit: the name brought to his mind his beautiful daughter ''Shuey-ping-sin'', which caused him to fetch a deep sigh, and led him to reflect on the wonderful manner in which things had happened. "I little thought, said he, of contributing to the restoration of that young lady's father, when I became surety for ''Hu-hiau''. I was not only the happy instrument of saving a brave man from death, but of bringing back to honour a Mandarine of so much merit. I might now ask him for his daughter in marriage; if I had not become acquainted with her at the ''Che-hien'''s tribunal; and if she had not received me afterwards into her house. But alas! after all this public intercourse, our union is impossible, unless I would bring all the calumny in the world both upon her and myself; and confirm the suspicion of a private correspondence." He considered with himself whether it was not possible to find out some means of getting over this difficulty: [but his delicacy raised so many scruples, and painted the censure of the world in so terrible a light, as extending not only to himself, but his posterity, that] at length he said, "I shall be forced to refuse her, although her father should make me the offer." He was buried in these distracting reflections, when there was shewn into the room an old gentleman dressed in the habit of a doctor of law: who cried out, "''Hiong'', or brother, why are you so difficult of access<ref>It appears from what follows that this is intended as a compliment.
−
a vifit, but only · faw your father: he 4
 
−
told me you did not care · to be feen
 
−
in public : I therefore came hither privately
 
−
to vifit you.,, CJ'ieb-cbung-u at
 
−
thefe words fiarted, faying : " Ah !
 
−
Sir, you feem to be the Mandarine
 
−
Sbuey-kettyc • :" then getting ready a
 
−
CJ'ieb tfo, or billet of compliments, and
 
−
prefenting it to him, he faid, " I hope,
 
−
Sir, you will pardon me, that although
 
−
you are a perfon of fo much honour1
 
−
I did not know you.,, " Why did
 
−
I come here, replied the other, but to
 
−
thank you for being the .caufe of my
 
−
return to court : as likewife to be ac•
 
−
quainced with a youth of fuch uncom-
 
−
• In the original it is, " Shuey-luu-ye Lau-Jttt•
 
−
"fang." The three lall w.1rds fignify a11 elder
 
−
in lear11i11g. Tranf.
 
−
mon
 
  
−
A_ CHINESE HIST(?RY. 16c
+
In a former note, [vol. 2. p. 90.] it hath been hinted how reputable the character of a retired student is among the Chinese, and what intense application it commonly requires to obtain a competent knowledge of their literature. The opinion of the Chinese themselves on this head will be learnt from the following little moral tale, which contains a fine lesson for perseverance. "''Li-pe'', who under the dynasty of the ''Han'', became one of the first doctors of the court, addicted himself to his studies from his childhood. He came one year to the general examination of the province; but meeting with bad success, he despaired of ever obtaining a degree: he therefore resolved to give up learning, and to turn his views to some other pursuit. While he was ruminating on this subject, he met with an old woman, who was rubbing an iron pestle to and fro' upon a whet-stone. 'To what purpose do you do that?' said he to her. 'I want, replied she, to grind it down 'till it becomes so sharp as to be fit for embroidering.' ''Li-pe'' took the hint, and returned to his studies, to which he applied with such renewed ardour, that he at length attained to the highest employments." P. Du Halde, vol. 1. pag. 386.</ref>, that I could not see you before to-day?" "Surely, Sir, said the youth, you do not know me, or you would not say this." Then he paid him the compliments due to his appearance. When these were over the old gentleman took hold of his hand, and looking earnestly in his face, said, "When I only heard of you, I conceived a great esteem for you; which after all might possibly have been ill-grounded: but now I must confess the sight of you increases that esteem, and gives me great satisfaction. Yesterday I went to pay you a visit, but only saw your father: he told me you did not care to be seen in public: I therefore came hither privately to visit you." ''Tieh-chung-u'' at these words started, saying: "Ah! Sir, you seem to be the Mandarine ''Shuey-keu-ye''<ref>In the original it is, "''Shuey-keu-ye Lau-yee-sang''." The three last words signify ''an elder in learning''. Transl.</ref>:" then getting ready a ''Tieh-tse'', or billet of compliments, and presenting it to him, he said, "I hope, Sir, you will pardon me, that although you are a person of so much honour, I did not know you." "Why did I come here, replied the other, but to thank you for being the cause of my return to court: as likewise to be acquainted with a youth of such uncommon endowments as fame reports you to be possessed of?" "Pray, Sir, excuse me, said ''Tieh-chung-u''; it proceeded from my not being sufficiently acquainted with you, that I did not pay that respect to you I ought in waiting upon you yesterday. I am now very sensible of my error." After these compliments, he ordered an entertainment to be got ready. At the sight of that, ''Shuey-keu-ye'' was very well pleased, as it would afford them an opportunity for discourse. Accordingly their conversation turned upon history, antiquity, poetry, law, and other subjects proper for learned and ingenious men. After these topics were exhausted, the old Mandarine said, he had one word to speak, which he hoped the other would not take amiss. "My Lord, said ''Tieh-chung-u'', as I am your son and disciple<ref>This is a usual compliment among the Chinese literati. See note, vol. 2. pag. 90.</ref>, why do you shew me so much condescension?" "I have no son, replied the other, but one only daughter, who hath just attained her eighteenth year. If I am not partial to her, I never saw a young woman of such beautiful features, or of so fine a person: and as to knowledge in books, I believe there are none able to converse with her, except yourself. This I mention, as I have a great value for you; but if you don't believe me, examine first into the truth of it yourself: if you find it to be true, you shall have her for your wife." ''Tieh-chung-u'' was so surprized, and confounded at these words, that he could give no answer, but remained as it were thunderstruck, and sighed deeply with a great appearance of concern in his face. ''Shuey-keu-ye'' observing his looks, said, "Perhaps you are already engaged." The other shook his head, and answered, "No!" "Perhaps then, replied he, you do not think all is true that I tell you." "Sir, said the youth, it is impossible for a man or woman to excell in understanding so much as she doth, but a whole kingdom must be acquainted with it. You have spoke nothing but truth, and your offer would be exceedingly acceptable to any one, but myself: circumstanced as I am, I should be very blameable to accept of it." The Mandarine hearing him speak so obscurely, said, "You are a person of an open generous heart; you must tell me what you mean." "Sir, said he, when you get home you will understand every thing." The Lord President imagined there might be something or other amiss, which had not yet reached his ears: this he thought the more probable, as he had been so long from home, and had not heard any news from thence: he therefore dropt the subject, and after some little discourse upon indifferent topics took his leave, and went home.
−
mon endowments as fame reports you
 
−
to be pofi'efi'ed of?" "Pray, Sir, excufe
 
−
me, faid Cf'ieb-cbung-u; it proceeded from
 
−
my not being fufficiently acquainted
 
−
with you, that I did not pay thanefpect
 
−
to you I ought in waiting upon you:
 
−
yefterday. I am now very fenfible of
 
−
my error." After thefe compliments,
 
−
he ordered an entertainment to be got
 
−
ready. At the fight of that, Sbueykeu1l
 
−
was very well pleafed, as it would
 
−
afford them an opportunity for difcourfe.Accordingl
 
−
y their converfation turned
 
−
upon hiftory, antiquity, poetry, law,_
 
−
and other fobjech proper for learned
 
−
and ingenious men. After thefe topics.
 
−
were exhaufted, the old Mandarine faid,
 
−
he hag._ one word to fpeak, which he_
 
−
hoped the other would not take amifs.
 
−
" ·My Lord, faid 'lieb-chrmg-u, as I am
 
−
. V oL. III. M your
 
  
−
16z BAU KIOU CHOAAN.
+
As he went along he could not help reflecting on the engaging aspect of ''Tieh-chung-u'', and what a proper husband he would be for his daughter; he therefore could not easily resolve to part with him. Nay he thought he could discern in his words and manner, as through a mist, that he had a secret inclination for her, although he seemed to have some great objection: what that was he could not possibly divine, unless she had been guilty of any misconduct: "But that, said he, cannot be; I know her to be of the most steady temper, and immoveable virtue. Perhaps this ''Kwo-khe-tzu'', out of revenge for my refusing him my daughter, hath played her some trick, or reported ill of her, which hath occasioned this disgust in ''Tieh-chung-u'': however all these objections will vanish, if the offer prove but agreeable to the Mandarine his father." He therefore resolved to get an intimate acquaintance to go and talk over the affair with the latter; for from what he had heard of his daughter's carriage and ingenuity, he thought there was none but ''Tieh-chung-u'' worthy to obtain her.
−
your fon and difciple •, why do you
 
−
1bew me fo much conde(cenfion ?" " I
 
−
have no fon, rcpUed the other, but one
 
−
only daughter, who hath juft attained
 
−
her eighteenth year. If I am not partial
 
−
to her, I never faw a young woman
 
−
of fuch beautiful features, or of
 
−
k> fine a perfon: and as to knowledge
 
−
in books, I believe there are none
 
−
able to converfe with her, except your(
 
−
elf. This I mention, as I have a great
 
−
value for you ; but if you don't believe
 
−
me, • examine firft into the trijth of it
 
−
yourfelf: if you find it to be true, you
 
−
1hall have her for. your wife." '.fiebclnmg-
 
−
u was fo furprizcd, and confounded
 
−
at thcfe words, that he could give
 
−
no anfwer, but remained as it were
 
−
• Thia is a uflllll compliment among the Cl,;-
 
−
"ff, lit,rllli, Sec note, vol. a. pag. ·
 
−
dwno;
 
−
g; ;,ad by
 
−
A CHINE:SE HISTORY. 163
 
−
· thundcrftruck, and fighed deeplt with
 
−
a great appearance of concern in his
 
−
face. Sbuey-lceu-ye obferving his looks,
 
−
faid, "Perhaps you are already engaged."
 
−
The Qther lhook his head,
 
−
and anfwercd, "No!" "Perhaps then,
 
−
replied he, you do not think all i$
 
−
true that I tell you." " Sir, faid the
 
−
youth, it is impoffible for a man or
 
−
woman to excell in underftanding fo
 
−
JDUCh as. fhe doth, but a whole kingdom
 
−
muft be acquainted with it. You
 
−
have fpoke nothing but truth, and your
 
−
offer would be exceedingly acceptable
 
−
to any one, but myfelf: circumftanced
 
−
as I am, I fbould be very blameable to
 
−
accept of it!' The Mandarine hearing
 
−
him fpeak fo obfcurely, faid, " You·
 
−
are a perfon of an open generous heart ;
 
−
M 2 you
 
  
−
·164 HAU· KIOU CHOAAN.
+
CHAP. X.
−
you muft tell me what ·you mean.''
 
−
"Sir, faid he, when you get home you
 
−
will underftand every thing.,, J'he
 
−
Lord Prefident imagined there might
 
−
be fomethillg or other amifs, which had
 
−
not yet reached his ears : ,this he thought
 
−
the more probable, as he had been fo
 
−
long from home, . and had not hearq
 
−
any news from thence: he therefore
 
−
<lropt the fubjecc, and after fome littl~
 
−
difcourfe upon indifferent topics took
 
−
his leave, and went home.
 
−
As he went along he could not help
 
−
reflecting on the engaging afpecc of
 
−
'.lieh-chung-u, and what a proper huf-.
 
−
band he would be for his daughter ;
 
−
he therefore could not eafily refolve
 
−
to part with him. Nay he thought
 
−
he
 
  
−
[p. 165]
+
''Shuey-keu-ye'' having learnt from the friend he employed, that his proposals were exceedingly acceptable to the Supreme Viceroy, made a great entertainment for that Mandarine, who when he returned told his wife all that had passed. ''Sheh''-foo-jin, or my lady ''Sheh'', agreed that their son was of a proper age to be married; and that ''Shuey-ping-sin'' was a very desirable person: for she had heard how she had conducted herself while she was persecuted by ''Kwo-khe-tzu'', and that she was a most ingenious and agreeable young lady. She thought therefore that such another could not be found for their son, and that it would be a great happiness to fix him so well. "And yet, said she, if you ask his consent, you will not obtain it; for he will be so nice and curious that he must examine every thing to the bottom, and will be raising difficulties without occasion, and without end. As the reputation of ''Shuey-ping-sin'' is so established, and her merits and accomplishments so great, we may contract first, and acquaint him with it afterwards." The Mandarine ''Tieh'' approved of her opinion, and told her it intirely agreed with his own. Then choosing a fortunate day, he made the customary present to the parent of the young lady. At the same time, he and his wife sent to their son, and wished him joy, informing him of the engagement they had entered into in his behalf. He was very much surprized, and immediately went to his father and mother. "Marriage, said he, is an affair of consequence, and should not be too precipitately managed. You have been wholly guided by report: but who can answer for the truth of reports? You may have been deceived in the accounts of this lady: and there may be cause to repent it as long as one lives." His father asked him whether he suspected ''Shuey-ping-sin'' to be ugly? "No! said he: I believe that her complection is fair and clear as the most limpid stream.<ref>In the orig. "There is no water fairer than she."</ref>" "Perhaps, replied the other, you are doubtful of her wit and sense?" "Her understanding, he replied, surpasses even that of our sex: in whatever she does there appears such discretion; all her actions are conducted with such beautiful order, that it exceeds imagination." "Perhaps then, said his father, she hath been guilty of something wrong." "No, he answered, she hath never done any thing the least amiss." With that the Supreme Viceroy and the lady ''Sheh'' burst into laughter, that he should make a scruple of marrying a young lady with so many perfections, and who had not one quality but what deserved the greatest praise. "Nay, proceeded the youth, I should willingly marry this young lady, even if it exposed me to so great a misfortune as your displeasure; for she is never absent from my thoughts: but alas! there is a difficulty, which I can never get over, that shuts me out from all thoughts of such an undertaking." This said, he immediately told them all that happened between him and the young lady: and concluded with observing, that his having so lately been the means of restoring her father, would add strength to the suspicion of their criminal correspondence. As therefore the loss of their good fame was to be the consequence of their nuptials, he could not think of purchasing even that happiness at so dear a rate. His father commended his nice concern for his reputation: "But what hath happened, said he, may be justified and cleared up. You are but a young man, and not so well able to judge as myself. However this union may be rendered more free from censure by your caution." Then his father and mother both observed to him, that they were advanced in years: and that any delay was so much loss of their happiness, as they could enjoy none equal to that of seeing him married. "You must not, said they, yield to these scruples: retire to your studies, and banish them from your thoughts. At a proper time we shall send for you. It is too late now for you to object to this marriage, for our contract cannot be set aside." ''Tieh-chung-u'', perceiving the anxious concern of his parents, thought it would not become him to contend with them farther: but imagined that if he himself should consent, the young lady could not easily be prevailed on. He therefore said no more, but taking his leave of them, returned to his studies.
−
he could difcern in his words and manner,
 
−
as through a mift, that he had a
 
−
fecret inclination for her, although he
 
−
feemed to have fome great objection :
 
−
what that was he could not poffibly
 
−
divine, unlefs fhe had been guilty of
 
−
any mifconduct : " But that, faid he,
 
−
cannot be; I know her to be of the
 
−
moft fteady temper, and immoveable
 
−
virtue. Perhaps this Kwi-kbe-tzu, out
 
−
of revenge . for my refufing him my
 
−
daughter, hath played her fome trick,
 
−
or reported ill of her, which hath occafioned
 
−
this difguft in CJ'ieb-cbung-u :
 
−
however all thefe objections will vanilh,
 
−
if the offer prove but agreeable to the
 
−
Mandarine his father." He therefore
 
−
refolved to get an intimate acquaintance
 
−
to go and talk over the affair
 
−
M J yvith
 
  
−
[p. 166]
+
''Shuey-keu-ye'' having concerted the marriage between ''Tieh-chung-u'' and his daughter, remained very well satisfied; and as he had been so long absent, had a great desire to see his family. He accordingly petitioned his Majesty for leave to retire, as being old and infirm. The Emperor, who was desirous to make up to him the time he had lost in disgrace and banishment, would not consent that he should so soon lay down his office. He nevertheless petitioned three times. The Emperor at length seeing him so determined, gave him leave to retire for one year, ordering him after the expiration of it to return to court: at the same time he issued out a mandate, requiring the Mandarines every where to entertain him as he passed along, and to supply him with whatever he might want. Highly pleased with this, he immediately prepared every thing for his journey, and set out from ''Pe-king''<ref>The cities in China are so much alike, that the Reader may conceive an idea of them all, from a short description of the metropolis. The name of ''Pe-king'', by which it is known to us, signifies ''the northern court'', by way of distinction from ''Nan-king'', or ''the southern court'', where the Emperors have formerly resided. The Chinese more usually call it ''Shun-tien-foo'', [or ''the city according to heaven''. Transl.]
−
with the latter; for from what he had
 
−
heard of his daughter's cctrriage and
 
−
ingenuity, he thought there was none
 
−
but CJ'ieh-cbung-u worthy to obtain
 
−
her.
 
−
CH AP. X.
 
−
SHUE r-m-yi having learnt from
 
−
the friend he employed, that his
 
−
propofals were exceedingly acceptable
 
−
to the Supreme Viceroy, made a great
 
−
~ntertainmcnt for that Mandarine, who
 
−
when he returned told his wife all
 
−
that had paffed. Sheb-foo-jin, or my
 
−
lady Sbeh, agreed that their fon was
 
−
of a proper age to be married ; and
 
−
that Sbuey-pi11gji11 wM a very defirablc
 
−
pcrfon : for fhe had heard how Jhe
 
−
had
 
  
−
167-
+
It is divided into two parts, one of which is inhabited by the Chinese, the other by the Tartars; is of an oblong square form, about eighteen miles in circuit, and is surrounded with strong and stately walls, of forty or fifty cubits high, flanked with towers, and wide enough for several horsemen to ride a-breast. The city gates, nine in number, are very lofty and magnificent: the streets are laid out with a line, and cross each other at right angles. They are decorated with triumphal arches, glittering towers, temples, piazzas, &c. and are distinguished by pompous names, as the street of the king's relations, of the white tower, of eternal repose, &c: the last of these is near four miles long and sixty yards in breadth. But all the streets are sadly incommoded with dust, &c. for want of being paved.
−
had conducted herfclf while fhe was perfecuted
 
−
by Kwo-lr.be-tz.u, and that fhe
 
−
was a moft ingenious and agreeable
 
−
yQung lady. She thought therefore that
 
−
fuch another could not be found for
 
−
their fon, and that it would be a great
 
−
happinefs to fix him fo well. " And
 
−
yet, faid the, if you afk his confent, you
 
−
will not obtain it ; for he will be fo
 
−
nice and curious that he muft examine.
 
−
every thing to the bottom, and will
 
−
be railing difficulties without occafion;
 
−
and without end. As the reputation
 
−
of Shuey-ping,fia is fo eftablifbed, and
 
−
-her merits and accomplifhments fa
 
−
-great, we may contract firft, and ac- .
 
−
quaint him with it afterwards." The
 
−
Mandarine· 'Iieh approved of her opinion,
 
−
and told her it intirely agreed
 
−
M_4 wi~
 
−
o,,""' ,, ·
 
−
[p. 168]
 
−
with his own. Then choofing a fortunate
 
−
day, he made the cuftomary
 
−
prefent to the parent of the young lady.
 
−
· At the fame time, he and his wife
 
−
fent to their fon, and wifhed him joy,
 
−
informing him of the engagement they
 
−
had entered into in his behalf. He
 
−
was very much furprized, and imme.diately
 
−
went to his father and mother.
 
−
" Marriage, faid he, is an affair of
 
−
confequence, and fhould not be too
 
−
precipitately managed. You have been
 
−
wholly guided by report: but who
 
−
can anf wer for the truth of reports ?
 
−
You may have been deceived in the
 
−
accounts of this lady : and there may be
 
−
caufe to repent it as long as one lives.''
 
−
His father afked him whether he fufpec\:
 
−
ed Sbttt)•-.ping-fin to be ugly?" No!
 
−
faid
 
  
−
[p. 169]
+
The shops are ranged on each side the streets, and tho' but one story high and very low, are finely set out with rich merchandizes. Before each door stands a pedestal to which is fastened a board from 20 to 22 feet high; on this is carved, painted or gilt the shopkeeper's name; with the words ''Ta-pu'', or ''he will not cheat you'', inscribed thereon. This double row of pilasters has a fine effect.
−
faid he : I believe that her complet\ion
 
−
is fair and clear · as the moft limpid
 
−
ftream •." " Perhaps, replied the
 
−
other, you are doubtful of her wit and
 
−
fenfe ?" " Her underftanding, he replied,
 
−
furpa1fes even that of our fex :
 
−
in whatever (he does there appears fuch
 
−
difcretion; all her actions are conducted
 
−
with fuch beautiful order, that it
 
−
exceeds imagination." "Perhaps then,
 
−
fa.id his father, . fhe hath been guilty
 
−
of fomething wrong." " No, he anf
 
−
wered, fue hath never done any thing
 
−
the leaft amifs." With that the Supreme
 
−
Viceroy and the lady Sbeb burft
 
−
into laughter, that he fuould make a
 
−
fcruple of marrying a young lady with
 
−
• In the orig. " There is no water fairer than
 
−
" 1he." .
 
−
fo
 
  
−
170 HAU K.lOU CHOAAN.
+
The streets are so continually thronged with people, as well as horses, mules, camels, carriages, &c. that those of our most populous cities in Europe are said to be meer solitudes compared to them: yet no women ever appear in public. This concourse is attributed to the great retinues of the Mandarines; to the vast resort from all parts of the empire; and especially to the great numbers of handicrafts people, as tailors, smiths, braziers, joiners, &c. who in China go about the streets in quest of work, and always exercise their arts at the houses of those who employ them. This creates a vast throng, as many of these for want of employment stand staring in large groups around juglers, mountebanks, &c. who take their stand at every quarter of the town.
−
fo many perfccl:ions, and who had nor:
 
−
one quality but what defervcd the
 
−
greateft praife. " Nay,- proceeded the
 
−
youth, I fhould willingly marry this
 
−
young lady, even if it expofed me to fo
 
−
great a misfortune as your difpleafure ;
 
−
for · 1he is never abfent from my
 
−
thoughts: but alas! there is a difficulty,
 
−
which I . can never get over,
 
−
that fhuts me out from all thoughts
 
−
of fuch an undertaking." This faid, he
 
−
immediately told them all that happened
 
−
between.him and the young lady: and
 
−
concluded · with : obfcrving, that his
 
−
having fo lately beeo the means of
 
−
reftoring her father, would add ftrength
 
−
to the f uf pie ion of their criminal corref
 
−
pondence. As therefore the lofs of
 
−
their good fame was to be the confc:-
 
−
quencc
 
  
−
[p. 171]
+
To describe all the curiosities of this great city, its police and government, squares, buildings, palaces, especially that of the Emperor (which itself is equal to a large city) would require a volume. See P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 46. 66. &c. P. Magal. chap. 17. P. Le Compte, tom. 1. p. 84. &c. Mart. Atlas. p. 29. Mod. Univ. Hist.</ref> with a very splendid retinue, attended by a long train of great Mandarines, who accompanied him quite out of the city. But the Mandarine ''Kwo-sho-su'' was not of their number, having been ashamed to appear.
−
quence ·of their nuptials, he could not
 
−
think of purchafing even that happinefs
 
−
at fo dear a rate. His father commended
 
−
his nice concern for his reputation :
 
−
"But what hath happened, fai~ he, may
 
−
be juftified and cleared up. You are
 
−
but a young man, and not fo well able
 
−
to judge as myfelf. However this union
 
−
may be rendered more free from cenfure
 
−
by your caution." Then his father
 
−
and mother both obferved to him, that
 
−
they were advanced in years : and that
 
−
any delay was fo much lofs of their
 
−
happinefs, as they could enjoy none
 
−
equal to that of feeing him married.
 
−
"You muft not, faid they, yield to
 
−
thefe fcruples : retire to your ftudies,
 
−
and bani{h them from your thoughts.
 
−
At a proper time we thall fend for you.
 
−
It
 
  
−
17-1
+
As soon as the news of what had happened arrived at ''Tsee-nan-foo'', all the Mandarines who resided in or near that city, put up chops or red papers with congratulatory inscriptions<ref>In the Translator's M.S. "Red papers with great letters of welcome writ upon them."</ref>: and every great officer and person of fashion went to the house of ''Shuey-keu-ye'' to compliment his daughter on the news. This ceremony they performed three times. The first time, they congratulated her on her father's return from banishment; the second time on his promotion; and lastly on the permission he had obtained to retire from court. ''Shuey-ping-sin'' at first gave no credit to the news: for having been so oft deceived by ''Kwo-khe-tzu'' she was afraid to appear: but afterwards when she saw the Mandarines of the city, she believed it was all true: yet could not comprehend how her father should have such good fortune, as at once to be restored and advanced to honour. ''Shuey-gu-win'' was not long before he went to her: "Do you know, said he, by what means it hath happened, that your father is thus of a sudden returned home with so much honour and promotion?" She replied, "I do not: but was thinking with some amazement how it could happen." "You are then to know, said he, that it is all through the means of ''Tieh-chung-u''." At which she laughed, and said, "I cannot believe what you say: it seems very fabulous." "Why not believe it, said he?" She replied, "Because ''Tieh-chung-u'' is not in any office or power; but on the contrary is but a simple student, and out of the way of contributing to such an event." "It proceeded originally, said he, from ''Kwo-khe-tzu'', who finding no other way to obtain you for his wife, got his father to send a messenger to my brother to solicit his consent. Which he refusing, that Mandarine renewed an accusation against him, and also against ''Hu-hiau'' a general chosen by him, charging them with mismanagement in the wars: upon which the Emperor appointed a Tribunal of Three in order to bring that general to his trial. He was thereupon condemned, and ready to be executed, when ''Tieh-chung-u'' interposed and became his surety: in consequence of which, the general was restored to his command, and had such remarkable success that he acquired great honour, not only to himself, but also to that young gentleman and your father." ''Shuey-ping-sin'' inquired of her uncle what authority he had for this report, and seemed to doubt whether it were true. "Not true, said he? why should you question it? Wherefore else were the papers put up? Did not the Mandarines themselves come hither to compliment you on the occasion?" She smiled at his warmth, and said, "If this be true, then doubtless ''Tieh-chung-u'' is a traitor, that could be so impudent and bold before the Tribunal of Three. Why don't you petition against him, as one that is going to raise a rebellion?" Her uncle begged that nothing more might be said on that subject, assuring her that he was now reformed. "I go no more, said he, among those rakes: who abused me very much in forcing me into what I did." As soon as he was withdrawn, ''Shuey-ping-sin'' set herself to reflect on the events that had happened. She could not but admire, that fortune should give that youth so many occasions to assist her; and all through their accidental meeting in the streets. "The service he hath done me is great, said she, but nothing to what he hath done my father. His virtue and generosity demand of me the most grateful acknowledgments: miserable I am, that I cannot yield him my love."
−
It is too late now for you to objea to
 
−
this marriage, for our contrafr cannot
 
−
be fee afide." 'lieb-cbu11g-u, perceiving
 
−
the anxious concern of his parents,
 
−
thought it would not become him to
 
−
contend with them farther: but imagined
 
−
that if he himfelf fhould confent,
 
−
the young lady could not eafily be prevailed
 
−
on. · He therefore faid no more,
 
−
but taking his leave of them, returned
 
−
to his ftudies.
 
−
Sbuey-ktu-ye having concerted the
 
−
marriage between 'Iieb-cbung-u and his
 
−
daughter, remained very well fatisfied ;
 
−
and as he had been fo long abfenr,
 
−
had a great deli re to fee his family.
 
−
He accordinf1ly petitioned his Majell:y
 
−
for leave to retire, as being old and
 
−
infirm.
 
  
−
[p. 173]
+
''Shuey-ping-sin'' continued in daily expectation of seeing her father: when at length a servant came to inform her of his approach. All the Mandarines went out of the city to meet him: and at noon he came home. She advanced into the great hall to receive him, where nothing could equal the joy of them both.
−
infirm. The Emperor, who was defi~
 
−
rous to make up to him the time he:
 
−
had Joft in difgrace and banifhment,.
 
−
would not confent that he fhould fo
 
−
foon lay down his office. He neverthelefs
 
−
petitioned three times. The
 
−
Emperor at length feeing him fo determined,
 
−
gave him leave to retire for,
 
−
one year, ordering him after the expiration
 
−
of it to return to court : at
 
−
the fame time he iffued out a mandate,
 
−
requiring the Mandarines every where
 
−
to entertain him as he paffed along,
 
−
.and to fupply him with whatever he
 
−
might want. Highly pleafed with this,
 
−
he immediately prepared every thing
 
−
for his journey, and fet out from Peking
 
−
with a very fplendid retinue, attended
 
−
by a long train of great Mandarines,
 
−
who
 
  
−
~ i74
+
What past farther between them, the next book will inform us.
−
who accompanied him quite out of the
 
−
city. But the Mandarine Kwo-jhofu
 
−
was not of ·their number, having been
 
−
afhamed to appear.
 
−
· As foon as the news of what had
 
−
happened arrived at 'Ifee-nan fco, all
 
−
the Mandarines who refided in or near
 
−
that city, put up chops or red papers
 
−
with congratulatory infcriptions • : and
 
−
every great officer and perfon of fafhion
 
−
went to the houfe of Sbuey-keu-yi to
 
−
compliment his daughter on the news.
 
−
This ceremony they performed three
 
−
times. The firft time, they congratulated
 
−
her on her father's return from banifhment;
 
−
the fecond time on his pro-
 
−
• In the Tranflator's M.S. •• Red_ papers with
 
−
'' great lcttt:rs of welcome writ upon them."
 
−
motion;
 
−
...... .
 
  
−
A-CHINESE HISTORY. 175
+
The End of Book the Third.
−
motion ; and laftly on the permifiion
 
−
he had obtained to retire from court.
 
−
Shuey-ping-fin at firit gave no credit to
 
−
the news : for having been fo oft deceived
 
−
by Kwo-lcbe-tzu Jhe was afraid
 
−
to appear: but afterwards when the faw
 
−
the Mandarines of the city, the believed
 
−
it was all true: yet could nQt comprehend
 
−
how her father fhould have fuch
 
−
good fortune, . as at once to be reftored
 
−
and advanced to honour. Shuey-guwin
 
−
was not Jong before he went to her :
 
−
"Do you know~ faid he, by what
 
−
means it hath happened, that your father
 
−
is thus of a fudden returned home
 
−
with fo much honour and promotion ?"
 
−
She replied, "I do not: but was thinking
 
−
with fome amazement how it could
 
−
happen.,. " You are then to know,
 
−
faid
 
−
 
 
−
1;,6
 
−
Said he, that it is all through the mean,
 
−
of 'l'ieh-,bung-u." .,t\t which fhe laughed,
 
−
and faid, '' .I cannot believe what you
 
−
fay: it feems very fabulous." "Why
 
−
not believe it, faid he?" She replied,
 
−
" Becaufe 'l'ieb-,hung-u is not in any
 
−
office or power ; but on the contrary is
 
−
but a funple iludent, and out of the
 
−
way of contributing to fuch an event.'•
 
−
"It proceeded originally, faid he, from
 
−
Kwo-kbi-tzu, who finding no other way
 
−
to obtain you for _his wife, got his father
 
−
to fend a meffenger to my brother
 
−
to folicit his confent. Which he refufing,
 
−
that Mandarine renewed an accufation
 
−
againft him, and alfo againft Hu•
 
−
biau a general chofen by him, charging
 
−
them with mifmanagement in the wars :
 
−
upon which the Emperor appointed a
 
−
3 tribunal
 
−
 
 
−
A CflINESE HISTROY~ 177
 
−
Tribunal of Three in ·order to bring that
 
−
general to his trial. He was therecon
 
−
demned, and ready to be executed, when
 
−
'Iieb-,bung-u intcrpofed and l?ccame
 
−
his furety : in confequence· of which,
 
−
the. general was reftored to his command,
 
−
and had fuch ·remarkab]efuccefs
 
−
that he acquired great honour,- not only
 
−
to himfelf, but alfo to that young gentleman
 
−
and your. father." · Shuey-ping/
 
−
in inquired of her ~ncle what authority
 
−
he had for this report, and feemed to
 
−
doubt whether it were true. " Not
 
−
true, faid he? why thould you queftion
 
−
it ? Wherefore eJfe were the papers
 
−
put up ? Did not the Mandarines themklves
 
−
come hith~r to compliment you
 
−
on the occafion ?" She f miled a~ his
 
−
warmth, and faid, " If this be true,
 
−
-VoL. III. N then
 
−
 
 
−
17! RAU lttOU CHOAAN/
 
−
then (;loubtlef9 'l'ieh-cbung-a is a traitor,.
 
−
that could b't fo lmpudenr and bold t,e ..
 
−
fore · tfre Tribunal of Three. Why
 
−
don'r you petition agaitift him, ·as one
 
−
that is going to raife a rebellion ?ri
 
−
Her uncle ~gged that nothing more
 
−
n,ight be faid on that fubjecl:,. affuring
 
−
Iler that he was now reformed. " I go
 
−
no more, faid he, among thofc rakes :
 
−
who abufed me very much in forcing
 
−
rue· into whit I did." A's foon as he
 
−
was withdrawn,. Sbu,y-ping-jln fet herfelf
 
−
co· reAecl: on the events that had
 
−
happened. She- could not but admire,
 
−
that fortune fheuld give that youth fo
 
−
many occafions to affift her ; and all
 
−
thrOligh their accidental meeting in the
 
−
fheet~. " The ferv.ke he hath done me
 
−
is great, fai<l {he, but nothing to what
 
−
. '6co,,,
 
−
'"d by
 
−
[p. 179]
 
−
he hath done my father. His virtue
 
−
and generofity demand of me the moft
 
−
grateful acknowledgments: miferable
 
−
I am, that I cannot yield him my love."
 
−
Shuey-ping-fin continued in daily expeB:
 
−
ation of feeing her father : when at
 
−
~ a. (ervant cart1e t'o infotm be~
 
−
:Of his approach. . All dw Mandari~
 
−
~tit cut of the city to mett him:
 
−
~ at ll()OD he came homo. She '1'1~
 
−
vanced _into the ~reat hatl' to recefv~
 
−
him, where nothing could equal the joy,
 
−
of them both.
 
−
What pafl: farther between them, the
 
−
.next book will inform us,
 
−
The End of Book the 'Third.
 
  
 
----
 
----
  
 
''End of Chapter 14''
 
''End of Chapter 14''
 +
 +
<references/>
  
 
[[Category:Hao Qiu Zhuan]]
 
[[Category:Hao Qiu Zhuan]]

Latest revision as of 04:26, 29 March 2026

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Chapter 14: Risking One's Life to Save Another: Recognizing a True Hero

From: Hau Kiou Choaan, or The Pleasing History. Translated by James Wilkinson, edited by Thomas Percy (London, 1761)

Note: This text was digitized via OCR from the original 1761 print. Some scan errors may remain -- compare with the modern translation and Chinese original to verify.

[Volume III, Book III, Chapters VIII-X]

CHAP. VIII.[1]

The tribunal of three having received the Emperor's commission, appointed a day to hear and determine the cause of Hu-hiau. When that day came, as soon as the Mandarines were seated, the Supreme Vice-roy Tieh-ying being one of them, that unfortunate general was brought out of prison, and entered upon his trial.

It happened that the same day Tieh-chung-u arrived at Pe-king, where he had never been since his return from Shan-tong. As soon as he alighted he inquired for his father. His mother told him he was gone upon an affair of great importance: that there was a great officer or valiant man[2] to be brought to justice. He replied, "As there is a war, and valiant men are necessary at this critical juncture, why do they seek to destroy them? I will go and hear the trial: perhaps my father may be drawn over to the opinion of his colleagues, and not follow the dictates of his natural candour and justice." Then going to the audience[3], he was struck with the sight of Hu-hiau already condemned, and bound, waiting for his execution; having been sentenced to lose his head three quarters of an hour after noon. There was a great crowd of spectators, through the midst of whom the youth forced his way to get nearer to the condemned person. He perceived him to be very young, but of a bold and dauntless aspect: his look wild and fierce as that of a tyger: his eyes fiery: his throat large, yet long like a crane's: his body strong and well set.[4]

Tieh-chung-u wondered what default of duty that man could be guilty of who had so promising an appearance. He went up to him, "Sir, said he, of what can they have accused you, who seem to be so valiant a person? How is it, that you have been beaten in war?" At this the other flew into a rage, and sternly said, "A man can die but once: and it matters not in what manner he dies. But I that have strength in my arms to carry the weight of ten peculs[5], and am master of eighteen different weapons[6], how should I be beaten by any one? What have I lost? 'Tis all falsely laid to my charge. This I solemnly declare. However I must die: be it so." "That is certain, replied the youth; and yet if you had not been guilty of the charge laid against you, why should justice be exerted in so extraordinary a manner? But if you have any thing to alledge in your vindication, you must speak, now is your time." Hu-hiau fetched a deep sigh and only said, "The present times are vile and corrupted." "Well, said Tieh-chung-u, if you are unwilling to break through your reserve, I will only ask you one thing; supposing you should be released, would you undertake to go now against the enemy." "Why not? replied he; is it not my duty? To do it a thousand times, I should look upon as nothing." The youth said no more to him, but asked the people what o'clock it was, and was answered past ten. Upon which he opened a way through the crowd, and got into the hall of audience, where were seated the three presidents of the tribunal. He cried out aloud, "Health to you all, my Lords! You are all great officers under his Majesty: it therefore behoves you to do your best for the public weal. At present there is great want of men of valour; and none can be got notwithstanding the proclamation for such to appear. The manner of your present proceedings tends not to the advantage, but the detriment of the empire. Pray is this man sacrificed to public justice, or any private consideration?" The three Mandarines, who had not very willingly passed sentence upon Hu-hiau, but had done it merely to gratify their superiors, were not displeased to see a person appear in his vindication: although they were disgusted at the little respect he shewed them.

The President of Crimes after some time, perceived he was the son of their colleague, the Supreme Viceroy: who also himself discovered who he was. Upon which he struck his hand on the table and said, "How dare you come here in this impertinent and bold manner, where it is death to do it? Take hold of him and bind him. I acknowledge no relation to him in this place." Tieh-chung-u cried out, "No, no: that is not justice: hear me before you order me to be seized. I only ask your Lordships, why doth the Emperor place the drum at the gate of his palace, but that the people may have redress there, when they can obtain it no where else?" The Supreme Viceroy said, "Who are you? and what acquaintance have you with the condemned person?" He answered, "I know him not, but perceiving him to be a valiant man, and one that may do his country and the Emperor service, [I came in his behalf.]" His father replied, "What business is it of your's what he is, or what he can do?" Then he ordered the officers attending the tribunal to take and bind him. The two other Mandarines desired his imprisonment might be deferred for a moment, and calling him to the table before the tribunal, said, "You shew a good intention and sound principle in what you say, but you must consider that things must be carried on according to [the forms of] justice, and not with so much precipitation. Hu-hiau hath been a year in prison, and the Mandarine Shuey-keu-ye as long in banishment; and hitherto none have appeared in their behalf. The former of these hath to-day been brought to his trial, and been condemned: to acquit him now would be ridiculous, and cause a deal of confusion and anger from the Emperor. The Mandarine Kwo-sho-su hath already informed his Majesty of the sentence of death past by us: how then is it possible to recall it?" Tieh-chung-u hearing these words, fetched a deep sigh, and said, "What you have done is all out of regard to your own interests, and not to the good of your country. Your Lordships cannot but know, that in former days it was frequent for Mandarines to oppose injustice; or at least to refuse to do any thing in prejudice of their country, or against their conscience, notwithstanding it might be strongly pressed upon them by the Emperor himself.[7] Wherefore do you study law and justice, if thus you act subservient to higher powers?"

The two other Mandarines to whom he addressed himself had nothing to reply: but his father cried out, "What! are you mad? I tell you sentence is passed, and he must die." These words very much grieved Tieh-chung-u, who said, "Will you then have no pity on so brave and valiant a man as this?" "Hu-hiau, replied the Supreme Viceroy, is condemned according to law, and his death must be looked upon with no more remorse than that of a kid. Of what service would pity be, where it is out of our power to relieve him?" "This is no common person, said his son, you do not know his qualifications, he is not to be matched among all the great men, that guard the wall of ten thousand furlongs.[8] It hath been customary when such men have committed a fault: not to put them to death, but to let them take it off [attone for it] by some service or other of great importance to their country. Why then should not this man be suffered to take off his crime in the same manner?" The two Mandarines agreed it was reasonable: "But who, said they, will be security for his performing such actions, as shall merit a pardon?" Tieh-chung-u said, "I will. Restore him but to his former office, and if he does not answer your expectations, then take off my head."

The two other Mandarines discoursed the matter over with his father: "As your son, said they, hath offered himself security for Hu-hiau here before all the world, we are thereby impowered to draw up a petition in his behalf, without the imputation of partiality, or of taking illegal steps to save his life." The Supreme Viceroy perceiving this was no more than reasonable, ordered the criminal to be sent back to prison, and commanded Tieh-chung-u to draw up a writing of security in his behalf. Which being done and properly signed, he ordered a chain to be fixed round his neck, and sent him to prison after the general.

The three Mandarines after this drew up a petition, wherein they acquainted his Majesty with their proceedings. As it was a time of war, business was not long before it was dispatched, so that if a Mandarine gave in a petition one day, his Majesty would answer it himself the next. The Emperor answered their petition in the following manner.

"Whereas there is a great want of men of valour to serve in the wars without the wall; and whereas Tieh-chung-u, son of the Supreme Viceroy, hath offered himself as security for the good behaviour of Hu-hiau; I therefore suspend his execution, and invest him with the same command he had heretofore. I likewise give him a sword to put to death any person that shall disobey command, or neglect his duty: and wherever the war may be, he hath full power to command there, as I expect he will be no where [improperly] absent. Wherefore if he behaves well, and comes off with success, my favour shall exalt him: otherwise he shall feel his punishment the heavier.
"Shuey-keu-ye first recommended and assisted him, and now Tieh-chung-u hath offered himself for his security: after this if he doth not behave well, I shall severely call to account those two persons, as much deserving to be punished as himself. Wherefore let him well consider this, and forthwith depart to his charge."

This order was carried by a Mandarine properly attended to Hu-hiau, whom together with Tieh-chung-u they took out of prison. These two persons went to return thanks to the three Mandarines their judges: and afterwards took up their abode in the house of the Supreme Viceroy; where they got every thing ready in order to repair to the wars. Two days after they departed for their charge properly equipped[9], with a gallant retinue of soldiers and other attendants; and being arrived at the wall, the officers there shewed them great respect, seeing Hu-hiau return with the Emperor's sword. They had not been gone six months, before this general had such signal success, that he put an end to the war, and every where re-established peace and tranquillity. Upon which the Emperor advanced him to a higher command, and restored Shuey-keu-ye to his former office. His Majesty also applauded the wisdom and integrity of Tieh-chung-u, and would have created him doctor of law: but the youth refused to accept of any such distinction, for he said unless he could arrive at that honour by his learning, he was unworthy of it.

CHAP. IX.

The Mandarine Kwo-sho-su was so mortified by this disappointment that he was ashamed to appear in public, and begged to lay down his office under pretence of indisposition. On the other hand, Shuey-keu-ye had no sooner returned to court but he was made Shang-shu, or President [of the tribunal of arms.] The Mandarines who had threatened him for refusing to listen to their proposals in favour of Kwo-sho-su and his son, were afraid he would now remember them. But he told them when they came to visit him and ask his pardon, that they could not be blamed for acting as they did, and that the harm which might have accrued was owing to himself. As soon as he had waited on the Emperor, he went immediately to visit the Supreme Viceroy and his son. That Mandarine received him in person, but his son was absent: the other inquired after him, but was told he was gone into the country to study. "I am come, said Shuey-keu-ye, to pay my acknowledgments to the young gentleman for the benefit I have received from his wisdom and courage; and nothing would rejoice me so much as to see him." "To morrow, said his father, I will send him to visit you." Upon which the other departed with great satisfaction.

The Mandarine Tieh did not approve of his son's keeping a great deal of company, but could not avoid complying with the request of the Lord President; he therefore sent to command his son to visit him. Tieh-chung-u said, to the servant who brought the message, "As that Mandarine only came to see us out of compliment, it will be sufficient for my father to return it. It would but interrupt my studies to go to the city: where the public ceremonies would take up more time than I can spare; and so much company is but irksome." He therefore humbly intreated his father not to engage for any return of visits to be made by him. The servant reported his message to his master, who was so well satisfied with it, that he went and returned the visit alone. Shuey-keu-ye asked for his son: and the other apologized for his absence under pretence that he was indisposed. "Very well, replied he, it is the custom of people of sense and ingenuity not to be forward in making themselves public: as your son is a youth of great wisdom, and chuses to live sequestered from public company, I will go to his house, and see him there." After a little farther discourse[10] they parted.

The Mandarine Shuey-keu-ye thought it a great proof of the young gentleman's discretion and good sense, that he chose to be retired. It increased his desire to see him. He had formed in his mind so favourable an opinion of him, that he thought he would be a very proper match for his daughter, whom now he began to think of marrying. He accordingly sent a servant to the village, where Tieh-chung-u at present resided, to see if he were at home, and being informed that he was, he went to see him on the morrow[11]: of which he gave him the customary notice.

The name of the village was See-shan, or West-mountain, where Tieh-chung-u lived retired; he had just dined when he received notice that the Mandarine Shuey-keu-ye intended him a visit: the name brought to his mind his beautiful daughter Shuey-ping-sin, which caused him to fetch a deep sigh, and led him to reflect on the wonderful manner in which things had happened. "I little thought, said he, of contributing to the restoration of that young lady's father, when I became surety for Hu-hiau. I was not only the happy instrument of saving a brave man from death, but of bringing back to honour a Mandarine of so much merit. I might now ask him for his daughter in marriage; if I had not become acquainted with her at the Che-hien's tribunal; and if she had not received me afterwards into her house. But alas! after all this public intercourse, our union is impossible, unless I would bring all the calumny in the world both upon her and myself; and confirm the suspicion of a private correspondence." He considered with himself whether it was not possible to find out some means of getting over this difficulty: [but his delicacy raised so many scruples, and painted the censure of the world in so terrible a light, as extending not only to himself, but his posterity, that] at length he said, "I shall be forced to refuse her, although her father should make me the offer." He was buried in these distracting reflections, when there was shewn into the room an old gentleman dressed in the habit of a doctor of law: who cried out, "Hiong, or brother, why are you so difficult of access[12], that I could not see you before to-day?" "Surely, Sir, said the youth, you do not know me, or you would not say this." Then he paid him the compliments due to his appearance. When these were over the old gentleman took hold of his hand, and looking earnestly in his face, said, "When I only heard of you, I conceived a great esteem for you; which after all might possibly have been ill-grounded: but now I must confess the sight of you increases that esteem, and gives me great satisfaction. Yesterday I went to pay you a visit, but only saw your father: he told me you did not care to be seen in public: I therefore came hither privately to visit you." Tieh-chung-u at these words started, saying: "Ah! Sir, you seem to be the Mandarine Shuey-keu-ye[13]:" then getting ready a Tieh-tse, or billet of compliments, and presenting it to him, he said, "I hope, Sir, you will pardon me, that although you are a person of so much honour, I did not know you." "Why did I come here, replied the other, but to thank you for being the cause of my return to court: as likewise to be acquainted with a youth of such uncommon endowments as fame reports you to be possessed of?" "Pray, Sir, excuse me, said Tieh-chung-u; it proceeded from my not being sufficiently acquainted with you, that I did not pay that respect to you I ought in waiting upon you yesterday. I am now very sensible of my error." After these compliments, he ordered an entertainment to be got ready. At the sight of that, Shuey-keu-ye was very well pleased, as it would afford them an opportunity for discourse. Accordingly their conversation turned upon history, antiquity, poetry, law, and other subjects proper for learned and ingenious men. After these topics were exhausted, the old Mandarine said, he had one word to speak, which he hoped the other would not take amiss. "My Lord, said Tieh-chung-u, as I am your son and disciple[14], why do you shew me so much condescension?" "I have no son, replied the other, but one only daughter, who hath just attained her eighteenth year. If I am not partial to her, I never saw a young woman of such beautiful features, or of so fine a person: and as to knowledge in books, I believe there are none able to converse with her, except yourself. This I mention, as I have a great value for you; but if you don't believe me, examine first into the truth of it yourself: if you find it to be true, you shall have her for your wife." Tieh-chung-u was so surprized, and confounded at these words, that he could give no answer, but remained as it were thunderstruck, and sighed deeply with a great appearance of concern in his face. Shuey-keu-ye observing his looks, said, "Perhaps you are already engaged." The other shook his head, and answered, "No!" "Perhaps then, replied he, you do not think all is true that I tell you." "Sir, said the youth, it is impossible for a man or woman to excell in understanding so much as she doth, but a whole kingdom must be acquainted with it. You have spoke nothing but truth, and your offer would be exceedingly acceptable to any one, but myself: circumstanced as I am, I should be very blameable to accept of it." The Mandarine hearing him speak so obscurely, said, "You are a person of an open generous heart; you must tell me what you mean." "Sir, said he, when you get home you will understand every thing." The Lord President imagined there might be something or other amiss, which had not yet reached his ears: this he thought the more probable, as he had been so long from home, and had not heard any news from thence: he therefore dropt the subject, and after some little discourse upon indifferent topics took his leave, and went home.

As he went along he could not help reflecting on the engaging aspect of Tieh-chung-u, and what a proper husband he would be for his daughter; he therefore could not easily resolve to part with him. Nay he thought he could discern in his words and manner, as through a mist, that he had a secret inclination for her, although he seemed to have some great objection: what that was he could not possibly divine, unless she had been guilty of any misconduct: "But that, said he, cannot be; I know her to be of the most steady temper, and immoveable virtue. Perhaps this Kwo-khe-tzu, out of revenge for my refusing him my daughter, hath played her some trick, or reported ill of her, which hath occasioned this disgust in Tieh-chung-u: however all these objections will vanish, if the offer prove but agreeable to the Mandarine his father." He therefore resolved to get an intimate acquaintance to go and talk over the affair with the latter; for from what he had heard of his daughter's carriage and ingenuity, he thought there was none but Tieh-chung-u worthy to obtain her.

CHAP. X.

Shuey-keu-ye having learnt from the friend he employed, that his proposals were exceedingly acceptable to the Supreme Viceroy, made a great entertainment for that Mandarine, who when he returned told his wife all that had passed. Sheh-foo-jin, or my lady Sheh, agreed that their son was of a proper age to be married; and that Shuey-ping-sin was a very desirable person: for she had heard how she had conducted herself while she was persecuted by Kwo-khe-tzu, and that she was a most ingenious and agreeable young lady. She thought therefore that such another could not be found for their son, and that it would be a great happiness to fix him so well. "And yet, said she, if you ask his consent, you will not obtain it; for he will be so nice and curious that he must examine every thing to the bottom, and will be raising difficulties without occasion, and without end. As the reputation of Shuey-ping-sin is so established, and her merits and accomplishments so great, we may contract first, and acquaint him with it afterwards." The Mandarine Tieh approved of her opinion, and told her it intirely agreed with his own. Then choosing a fortunate day, he made the customary present to the parent of the young lady. At the same time, he and his wife sent to their son, and wished him joy, informing him of the engagement they had entered into in his behalf. He was very much surprized, and immediately went to his father and mother. "Marriage, said he, is an affair of consequence, and should not be too precipitately managed. You have been wholly guided by report: but who can answer for the truth of reports? You may have been deceived in the accounts of this lady: and there may be cause to repent it as long as one lives." His father asked him whether he suspected Shuey-ping-sin to be ugly? "No! said he: I believe that her complection is fair and clear as the most limpid stream.[15]" "Perhaps, replied the other, you are doubtful of her wit and sense?" "Her understanding, he replied, surpasses even that of our sex: in whatever she does there appears such discretion; all her actions are conducted with such beautiful order, that it exceeds imagination." "Perhaps then, said his father, she hath been guilty of something wrong." "No, he answered, she hath never done any thing the least amiss." With that the Supreme Viceroy and the lady Sheh burst into laughter, that he should make a scruple of marrying a young lady with so many perfections, and who had not one quality but what deserved the greatest praise. "Nay, proceeded the youth, I should willingly marry this young lady, even if it exposed me to so great a misfortune as your displeasure; for she is never absent from my thoughts: but alas! there is a difficulty, which I can never get over, that shuts me out from all thoughts of such an undertaking." This said, he immediately told them all that happened between him and the young lady: and concluded with observing, that his having so lately been the means of restoring her father, would add strength to the suspicion of their criminal correspondence. As therefore the loss of their good fame was to be the consequence of their nuptials, he could not think of purchasing even that happiness at so dear a rate. His father commended his nice concern for his reputation: "But what hath happened, said he, may be justified and cleared up. You are but a young man, and not so well able to judge as myself. However this union may be rendered more free from censure by your caution." Then his father and mother both observed to him, that they were advanced in years: and that any delay was so much loss of their happiness, as they could enjoy none equal to that of seeing him married. "You must not, said they, yield to these scruples: retire to your studies, and banish them from your thoughts. At a proper time we shall send for you. It is too late now for you to object to this marriage, for our contract cannot be set aside." Tieh-chung-u, perceiving the anxious concern of his parents, thought it would not become him to contend with them farther: but imagined that if he himself should consent, the young lady could not easily be prevailed on. He therefore said no more, but taking his leave of them, returned to his studies.

Shuey-keu-ye having concerted the marriage between Tieh-chung-u and his daughter, remained very well satisfied; and as he had been so long absent, had a great desire to see his family. He accordingly petitioned his Majesty for leave to retire, as being old and infirm. The Emperor, who was desirous to make up to him the time he had lost in disgrace and banishment, would not consent that he should so soon lay down his office. He nevertheless petitioned three times. The Emperor at length seeing him so determined, gave him leave to retire for one year, ordering him after the expiration of it to return to court: at the same time he issued out a mandate, requiring the Mandarines every where to entertain him as he passed along, and to supply him with whatever he might want. Highly pleased with this, he immediately prepared every thing for his journey, and set out from Pe-king[16] with a very splendid retinue, attended by a long train of great Mandarines, who accompanied him quite out of the city. But the Mandarine Kwo-sho-su was not of their number, having been ashamed to appear.

As soon as the news of what had happened arrived at Tsee-nan-foo, all the Mandarines who resided in or near that city, put up chops or red papers with congratulatory inscriptions[17]: and every great officer and person of fashion went to the house of Shuey-keu-ye to compliment his daughter on the news. This ceremony they performed three times. The first time, they congratulated her on her father's return from banishment; the second time on his promotion; and lastly on the permission he had obtained to retire from court. Shuey-ping-sin at first gave no credit to the news: for having been so oft deceived by Kwo-khe-tzu she was afraid to appear: but afterwards when she saw the Mandarines of the city, she believed it was all true: yet could not comprehend how her father should have such good fortune, as at once to be restored and advanced to honour. Shuey-gu-win was not long before he went to her: "Do you know, said he, by what means it hath happened, that your father is thus of a sudden returned home with so much honour and promotion?" She replied, "I do not: but was thinking with some amazement how it could happen." "You are then to know, said he, that it is all through the means of Tieh-chung-u." At which she laughed, and said, "I cannot believe what you say: it seems very fabulous." "Why not believe it, said he?" She replied, "Because Tieh-chung-u is not in any office or power; but on the contrary is but a simple student, and out of the way of contributing to such an event." "It proceeded originally, said he, from Kwo-khe-tzu, who finding no other way to obtain you for his wife, got his father to send a messenger to my brother to solicit his consent. Which he refusing, that Mandarine renewed an accusation against him, and also against Hu-hiau a general chosen by him, charging them with mismanagement in the wars: upon which the Emperor appointed a Tribunal of Three in order to bring that general to his trial. He was thereupon condemned, and ready to be executed, when Tieh-chung-u interposed and became his surety: in consequence of which, the general was restored to his command, and had such remarkable success that he acquired great honour, not only to himself, but also to that young gentleman and your father." Shuey-ping-sin inquired of her uncle what authority he had for this report, and seemed to doubt whether it were true. "Not true, said he? why should you question it? Wherefore else were the papers put up? Did not the Mandarines themselves come hither to compliment you on the occasion?" She smiled at his warmth, and said, "If this be true, then doubtless Tieh-chung-u is a traitor, that could be so impudent and bold before the Tribunal of Three. Why don't you petition against him, as one that is going to raise a rebellion?" Her uncle begged that nothing more might be said on that subject, assuring her that he was now reformed. "I go no more, said he, among those rakes: who abused me very much in forcing me into what I did." As soon as he was withdrawn, Shuey-ping-sin set herself to reflect on the events that had happened. She could not but admire, that fortune should give that youth so many occasions to assist her; and all through their accidental meeting in the streets. "The service he hath done me is great, said she, but nothing to what he hath done my father. His virtue and generosity demand of me the most grateful acknowledgments: miserable I am, that I cannot yield him my love."

Shuey-ping-sin continued in daily expectation of seeing her father: when at length a servant came to inform her of his approach. All the Mandarines went out of the city to meet him: and at noon he came home. She advanced into the great hall to receive him, where nothing could equal the joy of them both.

What past farther between them, the next book will inform us.

The End of Book the Third.

End of Chapter 14

  1. ↑ CHAP. XIV. In the Translator's manuscript.
  2. ↑ These seem to be synonymous in the Chinese language.
  3. ↑ Called Kong-sub-wum. Transl. M.S.
  4. ↑ What attention the Chinese pay to the complexion and features of their generals, we may learn from Dionys. Kao, a native of China. This honest writer describing the image of Quan-in-chang [who may be considered as the Mars of the Chinese] tells us, that its face is painted of a very deep blood colour. "Which sort of countenance, he adds, is highly esteemed by the military men: nay, the whole Chinese nation imagine him [rather it] very propitious to them, and fancy that such a fiery flaming face will inspire them with valour, and enable them to acquit themselves well." Vid. pag. 126. But it is not merely from the opinion of its being propitious to themselves, but also with the politic view of frighting their enemies, that the Chinese affect a fierce dreadful look in their generals. Martinius speaks of it as an established custom, handed down from very early times, for them to paint the general, (who gains the first place in their triennial examinations) armed and of a gigantic stature, and to send this picture round to the neighbouring nations, in order to strike them with terror. Vid. Hist. pag. 405. That the Chinese still act upon the same views, we learn from the elegant writer of Lord Anson's voyage; for when the English were to pass by one of the Chinese castles, among other artifices to make them think more reverently of their military power, they had set a soldier of unusual size, to stalk about on the parapet with a battle-ax in his hand, and dressed in very sightly armour, which yet our people suspected was only made of glittering paper. See pag. 540. These ridiculous and childish expedients are sufficient to convince us of the unwarlike turn of the Chinese, and at how low an ebb is their military prowess.
  5. ↑ The Pecul (called by the Portuguese Pico, and by the Chinese Tan,) consists of one hundred Catti or Chinese pounds, and of about one hundred and twenty-five pounds European weight. P. Semedo, p. 72. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 576. Kempfer, p. 367.----Sed vide Dampier Suppl. pag. 132.
  6. ↑ To give a short description of the military establishment and discipline of the Chinese, we may observe that as the Chinese have different degrees for their literary Mandarines, so they have similar degrees for their Mandarines of war: and have military Bachelors, Licentiates and Doctors: in like manner as in France, they had formerly knights belonging to the law, as well as the army. The manner of their military examinations is not unlike those for the literary degrees. [See note, vol. 1. p. 8.] The candidates have a theme or subject given them relating to the art of war, on which they are to compose dissertations and discourses in writing. This done, they are required to shew their skill in shooting, riding and managing their arms, and to give various proofs of their dexterity and strength. It is seldom that any are admitted into command without having taken one or other of these degrees. The Mandarines are required often to exercise and review the soldiery. Which however consists only in some disorderly marches, in making mock fights, and in rallying to the sound of horns and trumpets. Not but they are taught to draw the bow and handle the sabre with great address: and especially are required to keep their arms and armour bright and clean. As the military life in China is seldom attended either with toil or danger, from the almost continual peace and tranquillity of the empire, it is bestowed as a favour on such as can make friends with the Mandarines, their service being commonly confined to the places of their abode, and is only to suppress robbers, &c. so that they may at proper times follow their own employments.----The military Mandarines are computed at 18,000, and the soldiery at above 700,000. The pay of a foot soldier is about five pence and a pint of rice per day: and of the horse in proportion. P. Du Halde, v. 1. p. 260. &c. P. Semedo, p. 96. &c. Mod. Univ. Hist. viii. 150. Lettres edif. R. 5. p. 136.
  7. ↑ Among a people so interested as the Chinese, it will not be wondered at that reason and justice are frequently given up on the slightest intimation of the Emperor's pleasure: and yet the history of China can produce some instances of firmness and integrity in opposing oppressive measures, that would do honour to the patriots of Greece and Rome. There have been ministers, who have gone to make remonstrances to the Emperor with such firm expectation of death for their boldness, that they have carried their coffins with them to the gate of the palace. [See P. Le Compte, tom. 2. p. 35. P. Du Halde, 1. p. 250.] And with what delicacy and address they can sometimes restrain the passions of their princes may be seen in the following instance. "The king of Tsi, saith a Chinese author, had a horse which he loved, and this horse died thro' the neglect of his groom. The Prince in a rage snatched up a lance and was going to dispatch him. The Mandarine Yen-tsa who was present turned aside the blow, and instantly addressing himself to his master, said, 'Sire, that man was on the point of losing his life before he knew the heinousness of his crime.' 'I consent, said the king, that you make him sensible of it.' Then the minister taking up the lance and aiming it at the criminal: 'Wretch, said he, attend to your crimes, which are as follows; in the first place, you have caused the death of a horse, which your prince committed to your especial care, and thereby have deserved death. Secondly; you have caused my prince to fall into such a passion, that he would have killed you with his own hands: behold another crime more grievous than the first. Lastly; you would have caused all the other princes and neighbouring states to have seen that my prince will take away a man's life for the death of a horse, and thus his reputation would have been ruined: and you, wretch, are the occasion of all this.' 'Let him go, said the prince; let him go: I pardon his fault.'" P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 600.
  8. ↑ Yun-li-Tchang-Tching, i. e. "The wall of ten thousand Lee, or 10,000 Lee in length." It is thus the Chinese speak of that stupendous wall, which separates their northern provinces from Tartary. This prodigious work was undertaken two hundred and fifteen years before Christ, to secure three great provinces from the irruptions of the Tartars. In order to execute it, every third man was draughted out of each of the provinces. To lay the foundation on the sea coast, several ships were sunk loaded with stones and iron. The workmen were not to leave the least chink between the stones on forfeiture of their lives: hence the work is almost as intire at present, as when it was first built. It is about fifteen hundred miles in length, and broad enough for six horsemen to ride a-breast upon it. This wall is admirable on two accounts. First that in its course from east to west, it runs in several places with a gradual ascent over very high mountains, and is fortified with very large towers no more than two bow-shots asunder. The second is, that this wall does not run in a straight line, but turns and winds in several places, according to the disposition of the mountains, so that the north part of China may be said to be encompassed with three walls instead of one. This work was but five years in building. P. Du Halde, vol. p. 20. 260. &c. Martin. Atlas. p. 15. &c. P. Le Compte, tom. 1. p. 115.
  9. ↑ As the literary Mandarines travel in great pomp to their governments, carried in sedans, &c. so the military Mandarines, who travel commonly on horseback, no less affect an air of grandeur. Indeed their horses are not very beautiful, but their harness is extremely sumptuous, the bits and stirrups being either silver or gilt. The saddle is very rich: the reins of the bridle are made of coarse pinked sattin two fingers broad. From the upper part of the chest hang two great locks of fine red hair (such as their caps are covered with) suspended by iron rings either gilt or silvered. Their retinue consists of a great number of horsemen, part going before and part behind them: without reckoning their domestics, who are clad either in black sattin or dyed calico, according to their master's quality. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 285.
  10. ↑ In the original, "After two words discourse."
  11. ↑ In the original, "Two days after," or rather "on the second day."
  12. ↑ It appears from what follows that this is intended as a compliment. In a former note, [vol. 2. p. 90.] it hath been hinted how reputable the character of a retired student is among the Chinese, and what intense application it commonly requires to obtain a competent knowledge of their literature. The opinion of the Chinese themselves on this head will be learnt from the following little moral tale, which contains a fine lesson for perseverance. "Li-pe, who under the dynasty of the Han, became one of the first doctors of the court, addicted himself to his studies from his childhood. He came one year to the general examination of the province; but meeting with bad success, he despaired of ever obtaining a degree: he therefore resolved to give up learning, and to turn his views to some other pursuit. While he was ruminating on this subject, he met with an old woman, who was rubbing an iron pestle to and fro' upon a whet-stone. 'To what purpose do you do that?' said he to her. 'I want, replied she, to grind it down 'till it becomes so sharp as to be fit for embroidering.' Li-pe took the hint, and returned to his studies, to which he applied with such renewed ardour, that he at length attained to the highest employments." P. Du Halde, vol. 1. pag. 386.
  13. ↑ In the original it is, "Shuey-keu-ye Lau-yee-sang." The three last words signify an elder in learning. Transl.
  14. ↑ This is a usual compliment among the Chinese literati. See note, vol. 2. pag. 90.
  15. ↑ In the orig. "There is no water fairer than she."
  16. ↑ The cities in China are so much alike, that the Reader may conceive an idea of them all, from a short description of the metropolis. The name of Pe-king, by which it is known to us, signifies the northern court, by way of distinction from Nan-king, or the southern court, where the Emperors have formerly resided. The Chinese more usually call it Shun-tien-foo, [or the city according to heaven. Transl.] It is divided into two parts, one of which is inhabited by the Chinese, the other by the Tartars; is of an oblong square form, about eighteen miles in circuit, and is surrounded with strong and stately walls, of forty or fifty cubits high, flanked with towers, and wide enough for several horsemen to ride a-breast. The city gates, nine in number, are very lofty and magnificent: the streets are laid out with a line, and cross each other at right angles. They are decorated with triumphal arches, glittering towers, temples, piazzas, &c. and are distinguished by pompous names, as the street of the king's relations, of the white tower, of eternal repose, &c: the last of these is near four miles long and sixty yards in breadth. But all the streets are sadly incommoded with dust, &c. for want of being paved. The shops are ranged on each side the streets, and tho' but one story high and very low, are finely set out with rich merchandizes. Before each door stands a pedestal to which is fastened a board from 20 to 22 feet high; on this is carved, painted or gilt the shopkeeper's name; with the words Ta-pu, or he will not cheat you, inscribed thereon. This double row of pilasters has a fine effect. The streets are so continually thronged with people, as well as horses, mules, camels, carriages, &c. that those of our most populous cities in Europe are said to be meer solitudes compared to them: yet no women ever appear in public. This concourse is attributed to the great retinues of the Mandarines; to the vast resort from all parts of the empire; and especially to the great numbers of handicrafts people, as tailors, smiths, braziers, joiners, &c. who in China go about the streets in quest of work, and always exercise their arts at the houses of those who employ them. This creates a vast throng, as many of these for want of employment stand staring in large groups around juglers, mountebanks, &c. who take their stand at every quarter of the town. To describe all the curiosities of this great city, its police and government, squares, buildings, palaces, especially that of the Emperor (which itself is equal to a large city) would require a volume. See P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 46. 66. &c. P. Magal. chap. 17. P. Le Compte, tom. 1. p. 84. &c. Mart. Atlas. p. 29. Mod. Univ. Hist.
  17. ↑ In the Translator's M.S. "Red papers with great letters of welcome writ upon them."
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