Page:Romance of the Three Kingdoms - tr. Brewitt-Taylor - Volume 1.djvu/265

 “But there is still between us an unavenged enmity, we could not suffer each other.”

Chia Hsü said, “There are three advantages in joining hands with Tsʻao. First, he has a command from the Emperor to restore peace. Secondly, as Yüan Shao is so strong our little help to him will be despised, while we shall loom large and be well treated by Tsʻao Tsʻao. Thirdly, Tsʻao is going to be Chief of the Feudal Lords and he will ignore all private feuds in order to show his magnanimity to all the world. I hope, General, you will see these things clearly and hesitate no longer.”

Chang Hsiu, now convinced, became more reasonable and recalled the messenger, who, at the interview, extolled the many virtues of his master. “If the Minister had any thought of the old quarrel he would hardly have sent me to make friendly engagements: would he?” said he at the last.

So Chang and his adviser proceeded to the capital where formal submission was made. At the interview the visitor bowed low at the steps, but Tsʻao Tsʻao, hastening forward, took him by the hand and raised him saying, “Forget that little fault of mine, I pray you.”

Chang Hsiu received the title of Yang-wu General (“Prowess-in-War” General) and Chia Hsü that of Chih Chin-wu (Controller of the Ways).

Tsʻao then directed his secretaries to draft letters inviting the support of Liu Piao.

Chia Hsü said, “Liu Ching-shêng loves to have to do with famous people. If some famous scholar should be sent to him he would submit forthwith.”

So Tsʻao enquired of Hsün Yu who was the best man to go as a messenger and he recommended K‘ung Jung. Tsʻao agreed and sent him to speak with this officer. So he went to K‘ung, saying, “A scholar of reputation is required to act as a messenger of State; can you undertake this task?”

Kʻung Jung replied, “I have a certain friend, Mi Hêng, whose talents are ten times mine. He ought to be constantly at the Court of the Emperor and not merely be sent as a State messenger. I will recommend him to the Emperor.”

So he wrote the following memorial:—

“In ancient days, when the great waters were abroad, the Emperor pondered over their regulation and he sought out men of talent from all directions. In old time, when the Emperor Wu of the Hans desired to enlarge his borders, crowds of scholars responded to his call.

“Intelligent and holy, Your Majesty ascended the throne. You have fallen upon evil days, but have been diligent, modest and untiring in your efforts. Now the great mountains have sent forth spirits and men of genius appear.