Page:The Beating of a Golden Branch.pdf/13

 the three-fold duty and the five-fold virtue. The extremest happiness of a faithful minister is to gain the approval of his lord, every blessing is his and every joy. Yesterday this saying was exemplified in you: to rejoice your age came seven sons and eight daughters, sons with wives and daughters with husbands. I do not wonder that your son’s heart was sad when he alone was unable to lead in his wife. Brother, return to your palace, your son and the Princess shall settle the rest.

I thank the Eternal One. The noble and omniscient Prince has declared his mind and I am sent away rejoicing. Great is his kindness! May Heaven grant happiness! (Exit.)

Kuo Ai, come near and hear my commands, for sweet it is to find a faithful minister and a dutiful son. Every great and good man is a defence to the throne. Your father in many a bloody battle proved his loyalty, and from of old the King has ever rewarded faith. I make you a Prince as well as your father; truly when one man is good all the world is bettered. You are now my son, husband of my daughter, and I will not question any shortcomings. You may have returned home not quite yourself, but that is a venial offence in youth. Hereafter let there be a little more forbearance and let not your petty squabbles reach my ears. I confer on you the deep red python dress, a satin cap, a jewelled belt, and all that befits your rank. This royal sword I give you with which to slay my enemies, and with it the right to use it according to your own judgment. Now return to your palace. I adjudge the Princess in fault, and she shall proceed to Fêng Yang to ask her pardon.

I thank the Eternal One. I feel glad at heart and my joy overflows. My fault is not even mentioned, and I have received royal gifts. (Exit.)

Eunuchs, command the Princess to attend.

We hear. The Princess is to attend.