Hao Qiu Zhuan/en1761-en2026/Chapter 14
Chapter 14 — Translation Comparison: 1761 ↔ 2026
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Chapter 14: Risking One's Life to Save Another: Recognizing a True HeroFrom: 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.
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
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Chapter 14: Risking One's Life to Save Another: Recognizing a True HeroModern English translation by Martin Woesler (2025) To the tune of "Butterfly Loves the Flower": Eyes of flesh see nothing; men of flesh are base. A hero in the dust and grime They reckon no better than a worn-out nag. If not bound hand and foot by empty scruples, Then hounded to death by niggling statutes. He resigns himself: his extraordinary talents end here — But lo, upon the scaffold's edge, He meets, against all hope, a kindred soul! His purpose vindicated on the frontier, a great deed done — Only then do men see that affairs of state can truly work like this.
"What public business has taken Father out so early?" he asked. His mother, Lady Shi, replied: "He has gone to try a general who lost a strategic advantage and is condemned to die. The case has already been heard once before. Now, by imperial decree, the execution is to serve as an example, and they dared not delay — he left at first light." Tie Zhongyu said: "I have heard that the frontier has been in a state of alarm for days, and this is precisely the moment when men of ability are needed most. Why would they execute a general at such a time? I fear Father may not have thought this through. Let me go and have a look." Lady Shi said: "Go and see, by all means — but this is a matter of state, so mind you do not interfere." Tie Zhongyu assented, and calling for a senior retainer to guide him, he went to the hall of the Three Judicial Offices. There he saw the general, Hou Xiao, already sentenced to death by imperial decree for losing a strategic position. He had been bound and brought out, and they were waiting only for the stroke of noon to carry out the execution. Tie Zhongyu pushed through the crowd to get a closer look at the condemned man. He saw a man of no more than thirty, with a panther's head, round, piercing eyes, a swallow's jaw, and a tiger's whiskers — a figure of formidable martial bearing. He was struck with silent awe: "This is a man of military genius! How has he come to this?" He stepped forward and said: "I see you are a man of commanding and majestic presence, plainly a hero among men. How is it that you could not fight your way through and lost the day?" Hearing himself accused of being unable to fight, Hou Xiao roared like thunder: "A true man looks upon death as a homecoming! If it is my time to die, then let them kill me — that is no great matter. But I, Hou Xiao, have the strength of a thousand jin in these two arms and eighteen kinds of martial skill in this body! How dare you say I could not fight, that I lost anything?" "If you did not fail, how have you incurred so grave a sentence? Pray tell me the full story." "Bah — what is the use of telling it now?" said Hou Xiao. "Very well, say no more about the past. But now, with the frontier in desperate need, are you still capable of fighting?" "To cut down an enemy general and seize his standard — that is my trade. What should I not be capable of?" Tie Zhongyu, hearing this, asked no further questions. In a surge of fury he charged straight up onto the dais of the Three Judicial Offices and cried in a ringing voice: "The three honorable ministers are among the most senior officials of the realm, charged with serving the state in truth. How is it that at this critical hour, when the frontier is in peril and the empire has no men, you follow dead letters and hollow precedent to kill a great general? The harm to the nation is not small! I ask you — is this for the public good, or for private interest? I cannot but hold the three ministers in contempt!" Now the Vice Minister of Justice, Wang Hong, along with Chen Shan, President of the Court of Judicial Review, and Tie Ying of the Censorate, had drafted the death sentence in obedience to the Academician Guo's memorial, which the Emperor had approved — they dared not openly dispute it. Yet though they had jointly recommended the sentence, they were far from easy in their hearts. When someone suddenly burst in shouting, they felt a complex mixture of alarm, relief, shame, and anger. Looking more closely, they recognized Tie Zhongyu. The Ministry of Justice and the Court of Judicial Review were reluctant to assert their authority, but Censor Tie was the first to slam the bench: "You insolent little beast! This is the Three Judicial Offices of the empire, where the majesty of the sovereign's law reigns supreme! Three great ministers are here by imperial command to judge criminals and pass sentence. What business has a mere scholar bursting in with wild talk? The law knows no family ties — seize him!" Tie Zhongyu shouted: "Your Lordship is mistaken! At the Court Gate Drum, any subject may speak freely and without reserve. How is it that at this place of life and death, a man cannot even plead for justice?" Censor Tie said: "What are you to Hou Xiao, that you plead for him?" "I have never met Hou Xiao in my life — why should I plead for him? I plead for a great general of the empire, because men of such talent are rare." "The life and death of the empire's generals are the sovereign's business. What concern is it of yours to behave like this? Seize him at once!" The bailiffs moved forward, but Wang Hong and Chen Shan both waved them off: "Hold! Not yet." They called Tie Zhongyu before the bench and spoke to him gently: "Your ardent devotion, young friend, is not wrong in itself. But the state has its laws, officials have their protocols, and criminal cases have their precedents — one cannot proceed by sheer impetuosity alone. As for Hou Xiao's case: he has been in prison for a year; Vice Minister Shui was exiled on his account; those who denounced his fault and debated his guilt at the time were many. Can the presiding judges now, when the charges stand and the evidence remains, suddenly declare him innocent? Such a thing is unknown in law, in protocol, or in judicial precedent. Even a petition for leniency would not dare presume to reduce a capital sentence on its own authority. How much less, when the Academician's memorial explicitly demanded execution and the Emperor approved it — which of the presiding judges would dare dissent and intercede on his behalf? The situation does not permit it." Tie Zhongyu listened, then heaved a deep sigh: "What the two ministers have spoken are the words of mediocre officials who cling to their posts, who cherish their salaries and guard their families — not words that could issue from the lips of men whose hearts are truly one with the throne, who treat the affairs of state as their own! If law, protocol, and precedent require nothing more than this, then a mere junior clerk could manage the task perfectly well. Why should great ministers serve as the sovereign's arms and heart? Let me ask: the ancients praised Emperor Yao for saying three times 'Spare him!' and Gao Yao, the judge, for saying three times 'Pardon him!' — what did they mean by that? If affairs of state must truly proceed as Your Lordships describe, then all the sage dialogues between ruler and minister in the age of Yao and Shun were a great deception indeed." Wang Hong and Chen Shan fell silent. Censor Tie said: "Foolish boy, enough! Hou Xiao's death cannot be averted!" Tie Zhongyu declared passionately: "Heroes and extraordinary men are born but rarely — how can Your Lordship cast such a man away? If you insist on beheading Hou Xiao, then behead me, Tie Zhongyu, first!" Censor Tie said: "Hou Xiao lost his position — the evidence is clear. To execute him is to dispose of a worthless nag; what is remarkable about that?" "Men are not easily known, and knowing men is no easy matter. Hou Xiao's spirit and bearing are like craggy cliffs. Set him to guard the frontier, and he will be a Great Wall of ten thousand miles. Among all the generals and commanders of this age, I doubt there is his equal." "Granted he has ability — but what of his guilt?" "Heroes throughout the ages have often been men with offenses to their name. That is precisely why the empire has the provision allowing a man to redeem his guilt through meritorious service." Wang Hong said: "Using a guilty man requires someone to guarantee him. Do you dare stand surety?" Tie Zhongyu said: "If Hou Xiao is pardoned and restored to command, and he fails to achieve victory, then take my head, Tie Zhongyu's head, first — as payment for my rash words." Wang Hong and Chen Shan turned to Censor Tie: "This is a place where all eyes are watching. Since your son is willing to come forward and guarantee the man with his own life, this act of his cannot be concealed. If we refuse absolutely, our only recourse is to memorialize the facts faithfully and request the Emperor's decision." Censor Tie, finding himself in this impossible position, had no choice but to acquiesce. Wang Hong ordered Hou Xiao brought back and returned to prison, had Tie Zhongyu write out a formal bond of surety on the spot, and then the three ministers composed a joint memorial and submitted it at once. At this time the frontier was in such desperate need that, with barely a day's interval, the imperial rescript came down: "The frontier is in urgent need. Since Tie Ying's son Tie Zhongyu so strongly vouches for Hou Xiao's ability to repel the enemy, how could We not be merciful? His former offense is hereby pardoned, and his previous rank provisionally restored. We further bestow upon him one imperial sword. Wherever alarm arises on the frontier, he is to proceed at once with his troops to relieve and defeat the enemy. Should he succeed, special promotion and reward shall follow. Should he fail again, he shall be beheaded and his head displayed at all nine frontier garrisons, as a warning against incompetence. Shui Juyi, who first recommended him, and Tie Zhongyu, who later guaranteed him, shall both be judged together with Hou Xiao according to his success or failure. Alas — let him rectify his fault, that he may be spurred to achievement: this is Our hope. Better to die fighting the enemy than to die by the law. Strive well! By Imperial Decree." When the decree reached the prison, Hou Xiao rendered thanks for the imperial grace. Upon his release, before attending to any military affairs, he mounted a horse and rode straight to pay his respects and thanks to Tie Zhongyu. When the two men met, it was a case of one hero recognizing another, and their mutual admiration was boundless. Tie Zhongyu invited him to dine, and Hou Xiao did not decline. They spoke of swordsmanship for a while, then discussed military strategy, and drank freely together for the entire day before parting. The following day, the Ministry of War, pressed by the frontier emergency and the tight deadline, began mobilizing troops while simultaneously urging Hou Xiao to depart. This time Hou Xiao went to the frontier bearing not only the burden of guilt to redeem, but also the imperial sword and personal endorsement. No border commander dared obstruct him, and he was free to exercise his abilities to the full. Within half a year he reported five great victories. The frontier was thoroughly pacified, and the Emperor was greatly pleased, promoting him on the spot to Regional Commander. Shui Juyi was restored to his former rank of Vice Minister of War and, as the victories continued, was elevated to Minister. Tie Zhongyu was awarded the post of Hanlin Academician in Waiting for his meritorious guarantee, but he submitted a memorial declining the honor, requesting instead to be allowed to sit for the regular metropolitan examinations. Academician Guo, thoroughly shamed, claimed illness and withdrew from public life. As the verse has it: When first the feud was formed, They thought they held the upper hand. Little did they reckon on the many reversals — By the time regret comes, it comes too late. Now we tell that when Minister Shui was recalled to the capital by imperial pardon, he traveled with all the pomp of a special envoy — what glory! All the garrison officers and military superiors who had previously done the Academician's bidding and tried to bully him were seized with terror and came crawling to beg forgiveness. But Minister Shui proved himself a man of generous heart and held nothing against them. Upon reaching the capital and presenting himself to the Emperor, he was shown every honor. He learned how Tie Zhongyu had risked his life before the Three Judicial Offices to save Hou Xiao, enabling his great success; and he recalled how Tie Zhongyu had previously burst into the Marquis of Daxia's pleasure hall to rescue Magistrate Han's wife and daughter. Moved by gratitude and admiration for such chivalry, as soon as he assumed his new office he sent two formal calling cards to pay his respects to Censor Tie and his son. Censor Tie received him, and after brief courtesies Minister Shui asked to meet young Master Tie. "He is in the Western Hills, studying for the autumn examinations," Censor Tie explained, "and so has not been able to come and pay his respects." Minister Shui said: "I come not only to thank father and son for their patronage, but because I truly admire your son's many heroic deeds at so young an age, and I long to meet him for my own satisfaction. What a pity that fate denies me this — he is not at home!" Censor Tie said: "The wild behavior of my unworthy son has earned him an empty reputation. I regard it with constant anxiety and have scolded him for it many times. Your Lordship flatters him far too much — how can he deserve it?" Minister Shui said: "Your son's chivalry is not recklessness, and his sincerity is not presumption. I admire not merely his name, but the reality behind it — that is why I am so eager to meet him." "If you would condescend to grant him an audience," said Censor Tie, "I shall send him to call upon you." "If he would be so kind as to visit," said Minister Shui, "pray let me know beforehand, so that I may sweep my doorstep and await him with due ceremony." After many more earnest entreaties, he finally took his leave. As the verse has it: He grooms his steed to show what he admires; He traces the stream upstream, longing for a meeting. Why such earnest eagerness? It is all for that one person's sake. Now Censor Tie's original inclination was not to encourage his son's social connections. But since Minister Shui had sent calling cards, paid a formal visit, and pressed so insistently to meet the young man, it would be churlish to refuse. He dispatched a servant to the Western Hills to inform Tie Zhongyu and bid him return to the city for a return visit. When Tie Zhongyu heard the message, he thought to himself: "The Minister's visit is merely out of gratitude that my guarantee of General Hou brought about his own reinstatement. Why must we meet in person?" He told the servant: "Please inform His Lordship my father that since I am committed to reading in the hills, and the capital is a place where great men come and go — how could I keep up with all such engagements? I beg His Lordship to decline all such visits on my behalf." The servant returned and relayed this. Censor Tie nodded: "There is reason in that." He went himself to return the visit, and upon meeting Minister Shui, offered this excuse: "My son learned of Your Lordship's kind visit and was eager to hasten to your door, but unfortunately he has fallen ill in the hills and cannot fulfil his wish. His offense is deep, and I have come first to offer his apologies. As soon as he can walk, he shall call upon you." Minister Shui said: "The sages of old permitted men to hear their name but not to see their face — that is precisely your son's way! It only makes my admiration more boundless." With that, Censor Tie took his leave. Minister Shui pondered privately: "My daughter Bingxin is a girl of outstanding beauty and matchless intelligence. I have long worried that I could not find a worthy husband for her. But looking at this Tie Zhongyu, his every deed and action is truly impressive. Moreover, I hear he is still unmarried, and he has done me a great service. If I let this man pass by without seeking him, it would be a grievous error. But I must see him in person before I can decide — I must know what he looks like." His mind made up, he sent someone to verify quietly that Tie Zhongyu was indeed at the Western Hills studying. The agent confirmed it. The next morning, Minister Shui rose at the crack of dawn. He dressed in plain clothes, mounted a single horse, and took only three or four close attendants, stealing away quietly to the Western Hills to call upon Tie Zhongyu. Tie Zhongyu had just finished his morning meal. A servant had come to report that Minister Shui was on his way to visit him, and this had set his mind wandering to Miss Shui. He was lost in thought: "How strange and unpredictable are the affairs of this world! Who could have guessed that my chance rescue of Hou Xiao would turn out as if I had deliberately set out to rescue Minister Shui! If I had never encountered Miss Shui at the county court that day, and now this connection with the Minister had arisen, I might well have asked for his daughter's hand, and he might well have consented. But given what has passed between us, not only can I not approach him — even if he came to propose the match to me, I could not in good conscience accept, for it would wound the moral order. Thinking it through: where there is attachment, it becomes detachment; where there is gratitude, it becomes estrangement; where there is fate, it becomes separation. Why must heaven be so perverse?" While he was thus brooding, an elderly man with a long beard, wearing a plain cap and an informal robe, strode into the hall. Coming face to face with him, the visitor called out: "Brother Tie! How hard it has been to meet you! You have nearly worried me to death with longing!" Caught off guard and not knowing who this was, Tie Zhongyu answered casually: "My face, I am told, is rather cold. If you have been longing for me, sir, it must be because we have never met. Now that we have met, I suspect the longing will soon pass." He came down from his seat and bowed. The old man returned the bow, then seized Tie Zhongyu's hands and studied him carefully: "Before meeting you, Brother Tie, my longing was only imaginary. Now that I see you, the longing becomes real! The moment I returned to the capital, I went to pay my respects, but had the misfortune of meeting only your honored father without seeing you face to face — I went home bitterly disappointed. Later your father promised me an interview, but you, guarding the white colt of your time most preciously, would not condescend to visit. In desperation, I have stolen here privately. Pray do not blame me for the intrusion." Tie Zhongyu exclaimed in surprise: "Then you must be Minister Shui!" "I am indeed — Shui Juyi." He had his attendants present his calling card. Tie Zhongyu said: "I am a young man and a junior scholar who, on a passing impulse of sympathy for a man of talent, did nothing that could be called sweeping the clouds from the blue sky. How can I deserve such ceremonious attention from Your Lordship?" Minister Shui said: "I come not to thank you for advancing my career — a matter of one man and one office. I come because I marvel at your youthful discernment, your burning heart, your heroic courage — you are a hero such as our age rarely produces. I wished simply to make your acquaintance." Tie Zhongyu bowed repeatedly: "I see now that Your Lordship is a man of boundless spirit, with a vision that belongs to another age. I spoke thoughtlessly — forgive me." He invited the Minister to sit, and hastily ordered wine and a meal prepared. The two sat down to drink together in simple fashion. Minister Shui had come with the express intention of assessing the young man's qualities, and so he questioned him with close attention. Tie Zhongyu, for his part, felt that the Minister's journey to this remote place and his generous, unceremonious manner marked him as a kindred spirit, and so he spoke from the heart. They discussed the classics and literature, then the strategies of Sunzi and Wu Qi; when they spoke of the moral bonds, they touched the living marrow of the Confucian tradition; when they spoke of governance, they reached the practical substance of statecraft. Everything they said was rich with meaning and eminently workable. After a long conversation, Minister Shui was nodding so fast his head was like water dripping, and smiling so broadly his face was like a flower in bloom. He praised Tie Zhongyu without ceasing: "Brother Tie's extraordinary gifts are surely heaven-bestowed!" After further discussion, the Minister could restrain himself no longer. He said: "I have a private matter on my mind that I should not, properly speaking, raise to your face. But since our meeting transcends the superficial — since we see each other beyond the outer form, as it were — I shall not stand on ceremony." Tie Zhongyu said: "I am but a junior, sir. If you have something to say, it would be a great honor to receive your instruction." Minister Shui said: "I have but one daughter, now in her eighteenth year. As for her beauty, I dare not boast that she has no equal under heaven. But for intelligence and talent, I fear that in all the four seas, apart from yourself, there is no man who could be her match. These are a father's boastful words, and you may not believe them. But I beg you to take my words to heart and make some quiet inquiries. If they prove true, and you would consent to a union, then the hundred carriages and the three fortunate stars would shine without shame, and the bells and the zither would find their proper harmony. Marriage is a weighty matter — I speak of it rashly, and I trust you will not laugh." Tie Zhongyu heard this and sat stunned for a long while. At last he heaved a sigh: "Heaven, oh heaven! Having brought forth such a perfect pair, why have you woven so cruel a destiny? What is to be done!" Seeing his melancholy, the Minister asked: "Why do you sigh? Can it be that you are already married?" Tie Zhongyu shook his head emphatically: "In all the four seas I have sought my phoenix — but I have always scorned those who, like Zhuo Wenjun, take matters into their own hands, for they are no true virtuous maidens. Where shall I find a match worthy of a Sima Xiangru?" "If you are not yet betrothed, perhaps you doubt my daughter's virtue?" "Your daughter is known throughout the land as a Meng Guang — a paragon. But alas, our paths crossed in a crooked lane, not on the broad highway of the River Isle. The dove has seized the magpie's nest, and I fear the moral order would be wounded. To have let the good match slip through my fingers is already a lifelong regret. Now that Your Lordship raises the subject of marriage, the regret deepens into eternity!" Minister Shui, hearing these veiled and enigmatic words, said: "You are a forthright man, Brother Tie. If there is some hidden circumstance, speak plainly. Why these riddles?" Tie Zhongyu said: "They are not riddles, sir — they are the plain truth. When you return home and make inquiries, you will learn everything." Minister Shui had been away from home for so long that he had received no news whatever, and had no idea of his daughter's recent affairs. Hearing Tie Zhongyu's evasive words and fearing there might be something compromising that could not be spoken aloud, he pressed no further. They talked of other things, finished their meal, and then the Minister took his leave. As the verse has it: He came to look upon Wei Jie's beauty; He leaves to ask of Luo Fu's virtue. To fulfil the wish of hearth and home Requires the labor of father and mother. On his way back, Minister Shui turned the matter over in his mind: "This Tie Zhongyu is indeed a man of talent and gallantry — my daughter's marriage must not let him escape. But his words were muddled: they seemed to refuse, yet also to accept; seemed to rejoice, yet also to lament. What can be the reason? Can he suspect my daughter of some impropriety? I know her upright nature and her serene composure — they are innate, not feigned. There can be nothing irregular about her. Most likely it is Academician Guo who, having failed in his suit, has spread malicious rumors. But none of that matters. I need only settle the betrothal agreement with his father, and then no tempest can shake it." His mind made up, he chose an auspicious day at his residence and asked a trusted colleague to convey his intentions to Censor Tie. Now Censor Tie knew that the Academician's memorial against Minister Shui had originated in resentment over his son's failed suit, and through this very affair he had come to learn that Miss Shui was a maiden of extraordinary talent. He had been thinking of finding a match for Tie Zhongyu, and when the Minister's proposal arrived, it was exactly what he had hoped for. He accepted with unalloyed delight. When Minister Shui learned that Censor Tie had agreed, fearing a change of mind, he hastened to exchange ceremonial visits and host celebratory banquets, and urged his colleague to press Censor Tie for the formal betrothal gifts without delay. Censor Tie consulted with Lady Shi: "Zhongyu is no longer so young. If we leave the choice to him, he will dither forever. I have heard that this Miss Shui is not only a woman of dignified beauty, but also of extraordinary intelligence. When Academician Guo's son tried every scheme to have her, she had the wit to rebuff him at every turn — a true heroine among women, and a perfect match for Zhongyu. Now Minister Shui is pressing for the betrothal. This is a match made in heaven, and we must not let it slip away." Lady Shi said: "If Miss Shui is as virtuous and gifted as all that, then you should make the decision yourself and settle it, without consulting our son at all. If you ask him, he will only produce a hundred excuses." "My thoughts exactly," said the Censor. The couple made their plans, and without informing Tie Zhongyu, they prepared the gifts, chose an auspicious day, and with their colleague acting as go-between, the betrothal was concluded. Only after the deed was done did they send word to Tie Zhongyu to congratulate him. When Tie Zhongyu heard the news, he was stunned. He rushed into the city to see his parents: "Marriage is a momentous affair, upon which the moral order turns. To ensure a proper ending, one must ensure a proper beginning. If one is not careful at the start, if one hastily grasps at beauty and talent, leaving grounds for gossip and suspicion — that becomes a lifelong stain." Censor Tie said: "Let me ask you this. Is Miss Shui not beautiful?" "If we speak of Miss Shui's beauty, she is truly a vision — with the spirit of autumn waters and the bone structure of jade. Who would say she is not beautiful?" "Beautiful she may be — but perhaps she lacks intelligence and ability?" "If we speak of Miss Shui's intelligence, she can achieve the most unfathomable results without turning a hair or showing the slightest emotion. Who would say she lacks ability?" "If she has intelligence, perhaps her conduct is not above reproach?" "If we speak of Miss Shui's conduct, she could stand before the spirits of heaven and earth with no cause for shame, and she would not deceive even in the darkest chamber. Who would say her conduct is not above reproach?" Censor Tie and Lady Shi both burst into laughter: "If Miss Shui is all of this, and if the match is made through proper channels with the full authority of both fathers and with a formal go-between — what ground for suspicion can there be, and who could object?" Tie Zhongyu said: "Before my honored parents, I dare not conceal anything. If we speak of Miss Shui's manifold virtues, I desire her in my waking hours and dream of her in my sleep — how could I not long for such a union? Now that heaven has granted my wish, how dare I affect reluctance? But I lament that fate brought me and Miss Shui together in adversity, and our meeting did not observe the full proprieties. We crossed paths amid circumstances of suspicion, and she maintained her honor only by constant protestations of chastity. If the match goes through to its conclusion, then all my earlier acts of chivalry will look calculated and deliberate. Therefore I would rather lose a companion of the inner chambers than become a criminal against the moral order." He then recounted the whole story: how during his travels in Shandong he had encountered Young Master Guo abducting Miss Shui; how he had rescued her at the county court; how he himself had fallen gravely ill; and how Miss Shui had taken him in and nursed him back to health. Censor Tie and Lady Shi, far from being alarmed, were even more delighted: "So that is how it was! Then you and Miss Shui are precisely the kind of chivalrous and righteous pair that makes a 'good match.' The affair has been witnessed by all; your hearts are clear before the gods. You began in adversity, and adversity forged the bond; you end in propriety, and propriety seals it. What suspicion is there to avoid? If you insist on avoiding suspicion now, then the suspicions from before will never be cleared. This matter satisfies both the norm and the exception, the constant and the contingent — you need not worry, my son. Go back and study in peace, and wait for your double fortune — success in the examinations to crown success in marriage — to gladden our old age." Tie Zhongyu saw that his parents' minds were made up and could not be changed, and he thought to himself: "I need not torture myself over this. Even if I consent, Miss Shui will certainly refuse. We shall deal with matters as they arise." He took his leave of his parents and returned to the Western Hills to continue his studies. As the verse has it: The gentleman rejoices in the pleasures of the moral way; The virtuous lady shuns the voice of sensual desire. When one holds firm, the Old Man of the Moon cannot play matchmaker; When one keeps true, even gallantry itself becomes a crime. Let us set aside Tie Zhongyu and his anguished deliberations, and speak of them no more. We turn instead to Minister Shui, who, having received Tie Zhongyu's betrothal gifts on his daughter's behalf, considered the match well made and was greatly pleased. Reflecting that he had been away from home for a long time, and that the perils of official life were many, he submitted a memorial pleading illness and requesting permission to retire. The Emperor, pitying his sufferings in exile, refused three times. Only after the Minister had submitted three consecutive memorials did the Emperor grant him a year's leave with post-horses, on condition that he return to his duties when the leave expired. Minister Shui was overjoyed. He packed his belongings and set out for home. This time, traveling by imperial post, it was a splendid journey. The good news reached Licheng County in advance. The heralds posted great red notice-slips at the Shui residence: first announcing his reinstatement as Vice Minister, then his promotion to Minister, and now his leave with imperial post-horses to return home. Miss Shui, hearing the first reports, feared they might be another scheme of her enemies and did not fully believe them. But when the prefecture and the county both sent official messengers to confirm the news, she accepted that it was true — though she still could not fathom what had brought about his reinstatement, and a trace of doubt lingered. Two days later, Shui Yun came bustling in, eager to claim credit: "My dear niece, do you know how your father's office was restored?" Miss Bingxin said: "I have been puzzling over it." Shui Yun said: "It was all on account of Tie Zhongyu's intercession." Miss Bingxin laughed: "That is even more absurd! Tie Zhongyu is no great minister — how could a mere scholar intercede?" Shui Yun said: "He did not directly intercede for your father. Your father's exile was caused by his recommendation of a general who subsequently lost a battle. A few days ago, Young Master Guo wanted to marry you, and when you kept refusing on the grounds that you had no father's authorization, he grew desperate and begged his father, the Academician, to write to your father on the frontier. But your father also refused, and this enraged the Academician. Then, when the frontier was again under attack, the Academician submitted a memorial arguing that the frontier disasters were all due to the leniency shown to the man who had recommended the failed general. He requested that both the general and your father be executed. The Emperor approved. On the day the Three Judicial Offices had bound the general and were about to carry out the sentence, Tie Zhongyu happened upon the scene. Seeing that the general was a true hero, he stormed the judicial hall and staked his own life as guarantee. The three judges had no choice but to memorialize the throne. The Emperor pardoned the general and sent him back to the frontier to redeem himself through battle. And sure enough, the general proved himself a hero — as soon as he reached the border, he routed the enemy and won a great victory. The Emperor, delighted, declared that your father's original recommendation had been vindicated, and recalled him with a promotion to Minister. Trace it all to its source — was it not Tie Zhongyu who saved him?" Miss Bingxin asked: "Is this really true?" "It is — you can verify it in the court gazette!" Miss Bingxin laughed: "If it is true, then he — a man accused of being a swindler — had the audacity to storm into the Three Judicial Offices! You should have reported him for treason, Uncle!" Shui Yun recognized his niece's barb, but dared not take offense. He could only swallow his embarrassment and say with a forced smile: "Let us not speak of that again. It was all the fault of those foolish young lords who dragged me into it. I shall have nothing more to do with them." With that, he retreated in shame. Miss Bingxin thought to herself: "What a strange destiny binds me to Tie Zhongyu. That he rescued me on the road was remarkable enough — one might put it down to coincidence. But that my father, exiled to the frontier, a matter that has nothing whatever to do with Tie Zhongyu, should also be saved by him through an unrelated act — is that not stranger still?" She thought further: "Strange it is indeed, yet what a pity it is a barren kind of strangeness. I may feel gratitude in my heart, but there can be no union between us. Heaven's purpose is beyond our knowing, yet human affairs have become so tangled!" Day and night, her heart was drawn to him. As the verse has it: Fiercely burns the true nature; Softly murmurs the tender heart. When feeling and nature find their harmony, Only then do reputation and the moral order become one. Miss Shui waited and watched at home. After some more time had passed, word arrived that Minister Shui had reached home. Since he was traveling by imperial post, the prefect and the county magistrate came out beyond the city walls to welcome him, and Shui Yun rode out to meet him as well. With great pomp and celebration, it was past noon before the party reached the house. Miss Bingxin came out to greet her father. The joy of reunion after so long a separation was beyond words — first the tears of their time apart, then the happiness of seeing one another again, a grief that was overwhelming and a joy that was equally so. And from this reunion, it came to pass: A joy beyond all common joys; A bond beyond all common bonds. If you wish to know what Minister Shui and Miss Bingxin spoke of, you must read the following chapter. |