Page:Journal of the Straits Branch of the Royal Asiatic Society (IA journalofstrait121878roya).pdf/121

 together their soldiers and horses, and assemble brave heroes from every quarter, in order to exterminate the treacherous officials, and wipe out the grievances and wrongs suffered by the brethren. How excellent were their intentions!

The priests agreed with joy to the plan, and when the time arrived, the mountain camp was broken up, and all proceeded in order to the Hung Pavilion, where Kin-lam and his companions joined them.

Without further delay, the whole party, being arranged with the proper ceremonies according to rank, sat down, and the priests questioned Kin-lam as follows;

"What is the honourable surname and name of our honourable Taoist brother, who has this day favoured us with his presence, and what instruction can be impart to us"? Kin-lanlam [sic] answered; "My unworthy surname is Tan, and my insignificant name is Kin-lam; formerly I was a high Minister at the Court of this "Chheng" dynasty, and having gained high honours at the Han-lim College, I was promoted to a seat at the Board of War. Seeing that the reins of Government were in the hands of a clique of treacherous Ministers, and worthless favourites, I retired from office, and entered the Taoist priesthood."

"Hearing that you virtuous and patriotic gentlemen, are about to raise the banner of justice and righteousness, I wish to join in your plans, and to assist in driving out the traitorous officials, and in avenging the foul injuries you have received."

All assembled were delighted, and cried with a loud voice; "Fortunate indeed is it, that the master is come to assist us; now certainly, the traitors must be exterminated, and our oppressions avenged; we beg the master will at once divine for us a lucky day, on which we may all renew our oath, and raise soldiers, for the great work."

Kin-lam acceded to the request, and before the whole company assembled in the Hall, the 25th day of the 7th moon at the hour Thiu, was the date chosen for the renewal of the oath, by mixing blood.

The 15th of the 8th moon was selected, as the day on which to sacrifice to the standards, and put in motion the army.

As a sign that these were auspicious dates, the Southern Sky suddenly opened, and the characters Thien-yen-kok-sik: ("A pattern of the celestial Palace") were displayed. Kin-lam having