332 THE LOYAI- AND FAITHFUL 



to detain your magistrate ; but, since the government has made 

 known its intentions, you should each attend to your several duties, 

 and not create a disturbance. Your magistrate, by filling the pre- 

 sent situation, cannot exert himself for the good of his prince, evince 

 his loyalty, nor commiserate the black-haired (Chinese) people. 

 You say, I liave not been afraid of those who have assumed 

 power, and, by enforcing the laws, the vicious have been reformed. 

 This is no other than what every magistrate may effect. When 

 you, the people, make filial piety an important part of your domestic 

 arrangements, you will ever be esteemed and respected. Before I 

 leave, my successor must arrive ; I will impress on him the necessity 

 of compassionating you, his people." 



These persons, perceiving that Mei-kwei was intent on entering the 

 capital, said, " Laou-yay ! how it is that you are not acquainted that 

 there are artful, traitorous persons at court, who not only dispose of 

 office and rank, but who will < ppose your Excellency on account of 

 your integrity? with such you cannot accord. Such contemptible 

 persons will plot the destruction of the virtuous. This requires your 

 consideration. Your Excellency should show that you are ac- 

 quainted with the old adage, how to advance and when to recede ; 

 for, if once accused by traitorous persons, you will never return to 

 your native village. Should you consent, with your wife and 

 son, to remain at Lee-ching, you will be happy. Here you will 

 have nothing to distress your mind, for all the people will aid you 

 in the discharge of your duties." Mei-kwei replied. " Respected and 

 virtuous people, all your statements are in accordance with reason. 

 With your magistrate it is a matter of loyalty. Since his Majesty 

 has called me to attend on his person, the Emperor becomes tke heart 

 of your magistrate (that is, the Emperor is to him what the heart is 

 to the human system — the source of life), how dare he then not 

 imitate the docility of the horse and dog? The kindness of the Em- 

 peror is immense ! How are you not aware of if? Your magistrate 

 advises you to return home, and strenuously instruct your sons and 

 grandsons, causing them to be dutiful to their fathers and mothers, 

 kind to their senior^ brothers, and considerate towards the junior 

 members of the family ; thus exemplifying the principles of filial 

 love and respect. You should constantly be instructing your sons 

 and grandchildren, and inculcate on the man of letters, the hus- 

 bandman, the mechanic, and the merchant, the importance of learn- 

 ing. Your magistrate has a Tuy-tyze, ' a couplet,' which he gives to 

 each individual, that he may keep it in remembrance of him : 



The business that nonrishes the body accords with the minJ: 



The business that does not, does it not bring vexation and trouble?" 



When he bade them leave. 



The people, perceiving that Mei-kwei was determined on leaving 

 them, one and all, with tears, exclaimed, "Since your Excellency 

 will go, we are desirous of defraying your expenses on the road, as 

 a small mark of our respect." Mei-kwei replied, " Virtuous people, 

 your magistrate is aware that your generous offer extends beyond 

 nis merely making it known among h's relations and friends, or that 

 his complying with your wishes sliould involve them in trouble. It 



