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 down his standard, and break his sword; or who, having brought multitudes to surrender themselves to the Imperial authority, restore peace and tranquillity to the age; and, lastly, those who by their talents and exertions shall extend the boundaries of the empire. Such deeds of valour shall be commemorated on tablets of stone.

IV. The Privilege of extraordinary Wisdom.—Those who are eminent for their wisdom and virtue are entitled to privilege, because by the advice of such men the administration of government is brought to perfection. Kia Yee has said, that the wise and good man may be afflicted with misfortunes, even unto death, without being subject to humiliation or disgrace.

V. The Privilege of great Abilities.—Great abilities are rare; the actions of the able are superior in value even to the words of the wise. From those who have the talent of commanding armies, and of conducting the different departments of the state, the sovereign selects the best and most efficacious ministers of his power.

VI. The Privilege of Zeal and Assiduity.—This privilege is due to those who, by night and by day, are zealously and assiduously engaged in the performance of their civil or military duties; and to those who discharge any distant and arduous employment with distinguished honour.

VII. The Privilege of Nobility.—This privilege is to be enjoyed by all those who possess the first rank in the empire; all those of the second, who are at the same time employed in any official capacity whatever; and all those of the third, whose office confers any civil or military command.

VIII. The Privilege of Birth.—The Emperor esteems and protects those who are distinguished for their wisdom and eminent services, even to the second and third generation.

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