Romance, Chapter 5

Chapter 5. Sending Out the Call: Many Respond: Destroying An Army: The Three Brothers Fight Against Lü Bu

At the close of the last chapter Cao Cao’s companion was about to slay him. But the memory of why he had decided to join his fortunes with his companion’s stayed his hand. Rising from his bed before dawn he mounted his horse and rode away toward his home in the east. Cao Cao awoke with the day and missed his companion. Thought he, “He thinks me brutal because of a couple of egoistic phrases I used and so he has gone. I ought to push on too and not linger here.”

卻說陳宮臨欲下手殺曹操，忽轉念曰：“我爲國家跟他到此，殺之不義。不若棄而他往。”插劍上馬，不等天明，自投東郡去了。操覺，不見陳宮，尋思：“此人見我說了這兩句，疑我不仁，棄我而去；吾當急行，不可久留。”

So he travelled as quickly as possible toward home. When he saw his father he related what had happened and said he wanted to dispose of all the property and enlist soldiers with the money. “Our possessions are but small”; said his father, “and not enough to do anything with. However, there is a graduate here, one Wei Hong, careless of wealth but careful of virtue, whose family is very rich. With his help we might hope for success.” A feast was prepared and the rich man invited. Cao made him a speech:—“The Hans have lost their lordship and Dong Zhuo is really a tyrant. He flouts his prince and is cruel to the people, who gnash their teeth with rage.

遂連夜到陳留，尋見父親，備說前事；欲散家資，招募義兵。父言：“資少恐不成事。此間有孝廉衛弘，疏財仗義，其家鉅富；若得相助，事可圖矣。”操置酒張筵，拜請衛弘到家，告曰：“今漢室無主，董卓專權，欺君害民，天下切齒。

I would restore the Hans but my means are insufficient. Sir, I appeal to your loyalty and public-spirit.” He replied, “I have long desired this but, so far, have not found a man fit to undertake the task. Since you, Mengde, have so noble a desire I willingly devote all my property to the cause.” This was joyful news and the call to arms was forthwith prepared and sent far and near. So they established a corps of volunteers and set up a large white recruiting banner with the words “Loyalty and Right” inscribed thereon. The response was rapid and volunteers came in like rain drops in number.

操欲力扶社稷，恨力不足。公乃忠義之士，敢求相助！”衛弘曰：“吾有是心久矣，恨未遇英雄耳。既孟德有大志，願將家資相助。”操大喜；於是先發矯詔，馳報各道，然後招集義兵，豎起招兵白旗一面，上書“忠義”二字。不數日間，應募之士，如雨駢集。

One day came a certain Yue Jin, whose minor name was Wenqian, and another Li Dian, also known as Mancheng. These two were appointed to Cao’s personal staff. Another was one Xiahou Dun. He was descended from Xiahou Ying and had been trained from his early boyhood to use the spear and the club. When only fourteen he had been attached to a certain master-in-arms. One day some one spoke disrespectfully of his master and Dun killed him. For this deed, however, he had to flee and had been an exile for some time. Now he came to offer his services, accompanied by his brother. Each brought a company of trained men.

一日，有一個陽平衛國人，姓樂，名進，字文謙，來投曹操。又有一個山陽鉅鹿人，姓李，名典，字曼成，也來投曹操。操皆留爲帳前吏。又有沛國譙人夏侯惇，字元讓，乃夏侯嬰之後；自小習槍棒；年十四從師學武，有人辱罵其師，惇殺之，逃於外方；聞知曹操起兵，與其族弟夏侯淵兩個，各引壯士千人來會。

Really these two were brothers of Cao Cao by birth since his father was originally of the Xiahou family, and had only been adopted into the Cao family. A few days later came two other brothers, Cao Ren and Cao Hong, each with a company. These two were accomplished horsemen and trained in the use of arms. Then drill began and Wei Hong spent his treasure freely in buying clothing, armour, flags and banners. From all sides poured in gifts of grain.

此二人本操之弟兄：操父曹嵩原是夏侯氏之子，過房與曹家，因此是同族。不數日，曹氏兄弟曹仁、曹洪各引兵千餘來助。曹仁字子孝，曹洪字子廉：二人弓馬熟嫺，武藝精通。操大喜，於村中調練軍馬。衛弘盡出家財，置辦衣甲旗幡。四方送糧食者，不計其數。

When Yuan Shao received Cao Cao’s call to arms he collected all those under his command to the number of three legions. He came to take the oath to Cao. Next a manifesto was issued:— “Cao and his associates, moved by a sense of duty, now make this proclamation. Dong Zhuo defies heaven and earth. He is destroying the State and injuring his prince. He pollutes the palace and oppresses the people. He is vicious and cruel. His crimes are heaped up. Now we have received a secret command to call up soldiers and we are pledged to cleanse the Empire and destroy the evil-doers.

時袁紹得操矯詔，乃聚麾下文武，引兵三萬，離渤海來與曹操會盟。操作檄文以達諸郡。檄文曰：“操等謹以大義佈告天下：董卓欺天罔地，滅國弒君；穢亂宮禁，殘害生靈；狼戾不仁，罪惡充積！今奉天子密詔，大集義兵，誓欲掃清華夏，剿戮羣兇。

We will raise a volunteer army and exert all our efforts to maintain the dynasty and succour the people. Respond to this, O Nobles, by mustering your soldiers.” Many from every side answered the summons as the following list shows:— The Prefect of Nanyang, Yuan Shu.
The Governor of Jizhou, Han Fu.
The Governor of Yuzhou, Kong Zhou.
The Governor of Yanzhou, Liu Dai.
The Prefect of Henei, Wang Kuang.

望興義師，共泄公憤；扶持王室，拯救黎民。檄文到日，可速奉行！”操發檄文去後，各鎮諸侯皆起兵相應：第一鎮，後將軍南陽太守袁術。第二鎮，冀州刺史韓馥。第三鎮，豫州刺史孔伷。第四鎮，兗州刺史劉岱。第五鎮，河內郡太守王匡。

The Prefect of Chenliu, Zhang Miao.
The Prefect of Dongjun, Qiao Mao.
The Prefect of Shanyang, Yuan Yi.
The Chancellor of Jibei, Bao Xin.
The Prefect of Beihai, Kong Rong.
The Prefect of Guangling, Zhang Chao.
The Governor of Xuzhou, Tao Qian.
The Prefect of Xiliang, Ma Teng.
The Prefect of Beiping, Gongsun Zan.

第六鎮，陳留太守張邈。第七鎮，東郡太守喬瑁。第八鎮，山陽太守袁遺。第九鎮，濟北相鮑信。第十鎮，北海太守孔融。第十一鎮，廣陵太守張超。第十二鎮，徐州刺史陶謙。第十三鎮，西涼太守馬騰。第十四鎮，北平太守公孫瓚。

The Prefect of Shangdang, Zhang Yang.
The Prefect of Changsha, Sun Jian.
The Prefect of Bohai, Yuan Shao. These contingents varied in size, but each was complete in itself with its officers, civil and military, and battle-leaders, and they assembled at Luoyang.

第十五鎮，上黨太守張楊。第十六鎮，烏程侯長沙太守孫堅。第十七鎮，祁鄉侯渤海太守袁紹。諸路軍馬，多少不等，有三萬者，有一二萬者，各領文官武將，投洛陽來。

The Prefect of Beiping, Gongsun Zan, while on his way with his force of a legion and a half, passed through Pingyuan. There he saw among the mulberry trees a yellow flag under which marched a small company. When they drew nearer he saw the leader was Liu Xuande. “Good brother, what do you here?” “You were kind to me once and on your recommendation I was made magistrate of this district. I heard you were passing through and came to salute you. May I pray my elder brother to enter into the city and rest his steed?”

且說北平太守公孫瓚，統領精兵一萬五千，路經德州平原縣。正行之間，遙見桑樹叢中，一面黃旗，數騎來迎。瓚視之，乃劉玄德也。瓚問曰：“賢弟何故在此？”玄德曰：“舊日蒙兄保備爲平原縣令，今聞大軍過此，將來奉候，就請兄長入城歇馬。”

“Who are these two?” said Zan pointing to the other two brothers. “These are Guan Yu and Zhang Fei, my sworn brothers.” “Were they fighting with you against the rebels?” “All my success was due to their efforts,” said Xuande. “And what offices do they fill?” “Guan Yu is a mounted archer: Fei is a foot archer.” “Thus are able men buried!” said Zan, sighing. Then he continued. “All the highest in the land are now going to destroy the rebellious Dong Zhuo.

瓚指關、張而問曰：“此何人也？”玄德曰：“此關羽、張飛，備結義兄弟也。”瓚曰：“乃同破黃巾者乎？”玄德曰：“皆此二人之力。”瓚曰：“今居何職？”玄德答曰：“關羽爲馬弓手，張飛爲步弓手。”瓚嘆曰：“如此可謂埋沒英雄！今董卓作亂，天下諸侯共往誅之。

My brother would do better to abandon this petty place and join us in restoring the House of Han. Why not?” “I should like to go,” said Xuande. “If you had let me kill him that other time you would not have this trouble to-day,” said Zhang Fei. “Since things are so let us pack and go,” said Guan Yu. So without more ado the three brothers, with a few horsemen, joined Gongsun Zan and marched with him to join the great army. One after another the feudal lords came up and encamped. Their camps extended over three hundred li and more.

賢弟可棄此卑官，一同討賊，力扶漢室，若何？”玄德曰：“願往。”張飛曰：“當時若容我殺了此賊，免有今日之事。”雲長曰：“事已至此，即當收拾前去。”玄德、關、張引數騎跟公孫瓚來，曹操接着。衆諸侯亦陸續皆至，各自安營下寨，連接二百餘里。

When all had arrived Cao, as the head, prepared sacrificial bullocks and horses and called all the lords to a great assembly to decide upon their plan of attack. Then spake the Prefect Wang saying “We have been moved by a noble sense of right to assemble here. Now must we first choose a chief and bind ourselves to obedience.” Then said Cao Cao, “For four generations the highest offices of state have been filled by members of the Yuan family and his clients and supporters are everywhere. As a descendant of ancient ministers of Han, Yuan Shao is a suitable man to be our chief lord.” Yuan Shao again and again declined this honour. But they all said, “It must be he; there is no other.” And then he agreed. So a three-storeyed altar was built and they planted about it the five banners of the divisions of space. And they set up white yaks’ tails and golden axes and emblems of military authority and the seals of leadership round about. All being ready the chief lord was invited to ascend the altar.

操乃宰牛殺馬，大會諸侯，商議進兵之策。太守王匡曰：“今奉大義，必立盟主；衆聽約束，然後進兵。”操曰：“袁本初四世三公，門多故吏，漢朝名相之裔，可爲盟主。”紹再三推辭，衆皆曰非本初不可，紹方應允。次日築臺三層，遍列五方旗幟，上建白旄黃鉞，兵符將印，請紹登壇。

Clad in ceremonial robes and girt with a sword, Yuan Shao reverently ascended. There he burned incense, made obeisance and recited the oath:— “The House of Han has fallen upon evil days, the bands of imperial authority are loosened. The rebel minister, Dong Zhuo, takes advantage of the discord to work evil, and calamity falls upon honourable families. Cruelty overwhelms simple folk. We, Shao and his confederates, fearing for the safety of the imperial prerogatives, have assembled military forces to rescue the State. We now pledge ourselves to exert our whole strength and act in concord to the utmost limit of our powers. There must be no disconcerted or selfish action. Should any depart from this pledge may he lose his life and leave no posterity.

紹整衣佩劍，慨然而上，焚香再拜。其盟曰：“漢室不幸，皇綱失統。賊臣董卓，乘釁縱害，禍加至尊，虐流百姓。紹等懼社稷淪喪，糾合義兵，並赴國難。凡我同盟，齊心戮力，以致臣節，必無二志。有渝此盟，俾墜其命，無克遺育。

Almighty Heaven and Universal Mother Earth and the enlightened spirits of our forefathers, be ye our witnesses.” The reading finished, he smeared the blood of the sacrifice upon his lips and upon the lips of those who shared the pledge. All were deeply affected by the ceremony and many shed tears. This done the oath-chief was supported down from the high place and led to his tent, where he took the highest place and the others arranged themselves according to rank and age. Here wine was served. Presently Cao Cao said, “It behoves us all to obey the chief we have this day set up, and support the State. There must be no feeling of rivalry or superiority based upon numbers.” Shao replied, “Unworthy as I am, yet as elected chief I must impartially reward merit and punish offences.

皇天后土，祖宗明靈，實皆鑑之！”讀畢歃血。衆因其辭氣慷慨，皆涕泗橫流。歃血已罷，下壇。衆扶紹升帳而坐，兩行依爵位年齒分列坐定。操行酒數巡，言曰：“今日既立盟主，各聽調遣，同扶國家，勿以強弱計較。”袁紹曰：“紹雖不才，既承公等推爲盟主，有功必賞，有罪必罰。

Let each see to it that he obeys the national laws and the army precepts. These must not be broken.” “Only thy commands are to be obeyed,” cried all. “My brother, Yuan Shu, is appointed Chief of the Commissariat. He must see to it that the whole camp is well supplied. But the need of the moment is a van-leader who shall go to Sishui Pass and provoke a battle. The other forces must take up positions in support.”

國有常刑，軍有紀律。各宜遵守，勿得違犯。”衆皆曰惟命是聽。紹曰：“吾弟袁術總督糧草，應付諸營，無使有缺。更須一人爲先鋒，直抵汜水關挑戰。餘各據險要，以爲接應。”

Then the Prefect of Changsha offered himself for this service. “You are valiant and fierce, and equal to this service,” said Yuan Shao. The force under Sun Jian set out and presently came to the Pass. The guard there sent a swift rider to the capital to announce to the tyrant the urgency of the situation. Ever since Dong Zhuo had secured his position he had given himself up to luxury without stint. When the urgent news reached the adviser Li Ru, he at once went to his master, who much alarmed called a great council.

長沙太守孫堅出曰：“堅願爲前部。”紹曰：“文臺勇烈，可當此任。”堅遂引本部人馬殺奔汜水關來。守關將士，差流星馬往洛陽丞相府告急。董卓自專大權之後，每日飲宴。李儒接得告急文書，徑來稟卓。卓大驚，急聚衆將商議。

Lü Bu stood forth and said, “Do not fear, my father, I look upon all the lords without the Pass as so much stubble and with the men of our fierce army I will put every one of them to death and hang their heads at the gates of the capital.” “With your aid I can sleep secure,” said Dong Zhuo. But some one behind Lü Bu broke in upon his speech saying “A butcher’s knife to kill a chicken! There is no need for the Marquis to go: I will cut off their heads every one as easily as I would take a thing out of my pocket.”

溫侯呂布挺身出曰：“父親勿慮。關外諸侯，布視之如草芥；願提虎狼之師，盡斬其首，懸于都門。”卓大喜曰：“吾有奉先，高枕無憂矣！”言未絕，呂布背後一人高聲出曰：“割雞焉用牛刀？不勞溫侯親往。吾斬衆諸侯首級，如探囊取物耳！”

Zhuo looked up and his eyes rested on a stalwart man of fierce mien, lithe and supple. He had a small round head like a leopard and shoulders like an ape’s. His name was Hua Xiong. Zhuo rejoiced at his bold words and at once gave him high rank and command over five legions of horse and foot. He, with Li Su, Hu Zhen and Zhao Cen hastily moved toward the Pass.

卓視之，其人身長九尺，虎體狼腰，豹頭猿臂；關西人也，姓華，名雄。卓聞言大喜，加爲驍騎校尉。撥馬步軍五萬，同李肅、胡軫、趙岑星夜赴關迎敵。

Among the feudal lords Bao Xin was jealous lest the chosen van-leader should win too great honours. Wherefore he endeavoured to meet the foe first and so he secretly despatched his brother Zhong with three companies by a bye-road. As soon as this small force reached the Pass they offered battle. Hua Xiong at the head of half a company of mail-clad horsemen swept down from the Pass crying “Flee not, rebel.” But Bao Zhong was afraid and turned back. Xiong came on, his arm rose, the sword fell, and Zhong was cut down from his horse. Most of his company were captured.

衆諸侯內有濟北相鮑信，尋思孫堅既爲前部，怕他奪了頭功，暗撥其弟鮑忠，先將馬步軍三千，徑抄小路，直到關下搦戰。華雄引鐵騎五百，飛下關來，大喝：“賊將休走！”鮑忠急待退，被華雄手起刀落，斬於馬下，生擒將校極多。

His head was sent to the minister’s palace. Hua Xiong was promoted to Dudu, or Commander in Chief.

華雄遣人齎鮑忠首級來相府報捷，卓加雄爲都督。

Sun Jian presently approached the Pass. He had four captains: Cheng Pu, whose weapon was an iron-spined snaky lance; Huang Gai, who wielded an iron whip; Han Dang, a swordsman, and Zu Mao, who fought with a pair of swords.

卻說孫堅引四將直至關前。那四將？——第一個，右北平土垠人，姓程，名普，字德謀，使一條鐵脊蛇矛；第二個，姓黃，名蓋，字公覆，零陵人也，使鐵鞭；第三個，姓韓，名當，字義公，遼西令支人也，使一口大刀；第四個，姓祖，名茂，字大榮，吳郡富春人也，使雙刀。

The Commander Sun wore a helmet of fine silver wrapped round with a red turban. He carried across his body his sword of ancient ingot iron and rode a dappled horse with flowing mane. He advanced to the Pass and hailed the defenders, calling them helpers of a fool, and summoned them to surrender. A half legion under Hu Zhen went out against him whom Cheng Pu with the snaky lance rode out and engaged. After a very few bouts Hu Zhen was killed on the spot by a thrust through the throat. Then the signal was given for the main army to advance. But from the Pass they rained down showers of stones, which proved too much for the assailants

孫堅披爛銀鎧，裹赤幘，橫古錠刀，騎花鬃馬，指關上而罵曰：“助惡匹夫，何不早降！”華雄副將胡軫引兵五千出關迎戰。程普飛馬挺矛，直取胡軫。鬥不數合，程普刺中胡軫咽喉，死於馬下。堅揮軍直殺至關前，關上矢石如雨。

and they retired into camp at Liangdong to await further help from Yuan Shao.

孫堅引兵回至梁東屯住，使人於袁紹處報捷，就於袁術處催糧。

An urgent message for supplies was sent to the commissary. But one said to him, the Controller: “This Sun Jian is a very tiger. Should he take the capital and destroy Dong Zhuo we should have a tiger in place of a wolf. Do not send him grain. Starve his men and that will decide the fate of that army.” And Yuan Shu gave ear to the detractors and sent no grain or forage. Soon the hungry soldiers showed their disaffection by indiscipline and the spies bore the news to the defenders of the Pass, who decided upon a speedy attack in front and rear. They hoped to capture Sun Jian.

或說術曰：“孫堅乃江東猛虎；若打破洛陽，殺了董卓，正是除狼而得虎也。今不與糧，彼軍必散。”術聽之，不發糧草。孫堅軍缺食，軍中自亂，細作報上關來。李肅爲華雄謀曰：“今夜我引一軍從小路下關，襲孫堅寨後，將軍擊其前寨，堅可擒矣。”

So the soldiers of the attacking face were told off and given a full meal. At dark they left the Pass and crept by secret paths to the rear of Sun Jian’s camp. The moon was bright and the wind cool. They arrived about midnight and the drums beat an immediate attack. Sun Jian hastily donned his fighting gear and rode out. He ran straight into Hua Xiong and the two warriors engaged. But before they had exchanged many passes Li Su’s men came up and set fire to whatever would burn. Sun’s army were thrown into confusion and fled like rats. A general mêlée ensued and soon only Zu Mao was left at his chief’s side. These two broke through the pass and fled.

雄從之，傳令軍士飽餐，乘夜下關。是夜月白風清。到堅寨時，已是半夜，鼓譟直進。堅慌忙披掛上馬，正遇華雄。兩馬相交，鬥不數合，後面李肅軍到，竟天價放起火來。堅軍亂竄。衆將各自混戰，止有祖茂跟定孫堅，突圍而走。

Hua Xiong coming in hot pursuit, Sun Jian took his bow and let fly two arrows in quick succession, but both missed. He fitted a third arrow to the string, but drew the bow so fiercely that it snapped. He cast the magpie painted bow to the earth and set off at full gallop. Then spake Zu Mao saying, “My lord’s red turban is a mark that the rebels will too easily recognise. Give it to me and I will wear it.” So Sun Jian exchanged his silver helmet with the turban for his faithful friend’s headpiece, and the two men parted, riding different ways. The pursuers looking only for the red turban went after its wearer and Sun escaped along a bye-road.

背後華雄追來。堅取箭，連放兩箭，皆被華雄躲過。再放第三箭時，因用力太猛，拽折了鵲畫弓，只得棄弓縱馬而奔。祖茂曰：“主公頭上赤幘射目，爲賊所識認。可脫幘與某戴之。”堅就脫幘換茂盔，分兩路而走。雄軍只望赤幘者追趕，堅乃從小路得脫。

Zu Mao, hotly pursued, then tore off the headdress which he hung on the post of a half-burned house as he passed and dashed into the thick woods. Hua Xiong’s men seeing the red turban standing motionless dared not approach, but they surrounded it on every side and shot at it with arrows. Presently they discovered the trick, went up and seized it. This was the moment that the hidden man awaited. At once he rushed forth, his two swords whirling about, and dashed at the leader. But Hua Xiong was too quick. With a loud yell he slashed at Zu Mao and cut him down. Day had now broken and the victor led his men back to the Pass.

祖茂被華雄追急，將赤幘掛於人家燒不盡的庭柱上，卻入樹林潛躲。華雄軍於月下遙見赤幘，四面圍定，不敢近前。用箭射之，方知是計，遂向前取了赤幘。祖茂於林後殺出，揮雙刀欲劈華雄；雄大喝一聲，將祖茂一刀砍於馬下。殺至天明，雄方引兵上關。

The three other leaders in time met their chief and the soldiers halted. Sun Jian was much grieved at the loss of his generous subordinate. When news of the disaster reached Yuan Shao he was greatly chagrined and called all the lords to a council. They assembled and Gongsun Zan was the last to arrive. When all were seated in the tent Yuan Shao said, “The brother of General Bao, disobeying the rules we made for our guidance, rashly went to attack the enemy; he was slain and with him many of our soldiers. Now Sun Wentai has been defeated. Thus our fighting spirit has suffered and what is to be done?”

程普、黃蓋、韓當都來尋見孫堅，再收拾軍馬屯紮。堅爲折了祖茂，傷感不已，星夜遣人報知袁紹。紹大驚曰：“不想孫文臺敗於華雄之手！”便聚衆諸侯商議。衆人都到，只有公孫瓚後至，紹請入帳列坐。紹曰：“前日鮑將軍之弟不遵調遣，擅自進兵，殺身喪命，折了許多軍士；今者孫文臺又敗於華雄：挫動銳氣，爲之奈何？”

Every one was silent. Lifting his eyes the chief looked round from one to another till he came to Gongsun Zan and then he remarked three men who stood behind his seat. They were of striking appearance as they stood there, all three smiling cynically. “Who are those men behind you?” said the chief. Gongsun told Xuande to come forward, and said, “This is Liu Bei, magistrate of Pingyuan and a brother of mine who shared my humble cottage.” “It must be the Liu Xuande who broke up the Yellow Turban rebellion,” said Cao. “It is he,” said his patron and he ordered Liu Bei to make his obeisance to the assembly,

諸侯並皆不語。紹舉目遍視，見公孫瓚背後立着三人，容貌異常，都在那裏冷笑。紹問曰：“公孫太守背後何人？”瓚呼玄德出曰：“此吾自幼同舍兄弟，平原令劉備是也。”曹操曰：“莫非破黃巾劉玄德乎？”瓚曰：“然。”即令劉玄德拜見。

to whom he then related his services and his origin, all in full detail. “Since he is of the Han line he should be seated,” said the chief and he bade Liu Bei sit. Liu Bei modestly thanked him. Said Shao, “This consideration is not for your fame and office; I respect you as a scion of the imperial family.” So Liu Bei took his seat in the lowest place of the long line of lords. And his two brothers with folded arms took their stations behind him. Even as they were at this meeting came in a scout to say that Hua Xiong with a company of mail-clad horsemen was coming down from the Pass. They were flaunting Sun Jian’s captured red turban on the end of a bamboo pole. The enemy was soon hurling insults at those within the stockade and challenging them to fight.

瓚將玄德功勞，並其出身，細說一遍。紹曰：“既是漢室宗派，取坐來。”命坐。備遜謝。紹曰：“吾非敬汝名爵，吾敬汝是帝室之胄耳。”玄德乃坐於末位，關、張叉手侍立於後。忽探子來報：“華雄引鐵騎下關，用長竿挑着孫太守赤幘，來寨前大罵搦戰。”

“Who dares go out to give battle?” said the chief. “I will go,” said Yu She, a leader who belonged to the train of Yuan Shu. So he went and almost immediately one came back to say that he had fallen in the third bout. Fear began to lay its cold hand on the assembly. Then said another, “I have a brave warrior among my men. Pan Feng is his name and he could slay this Hua Xiong.” So Pan was ordered out to meet the foe. With his great battle-axe in his hand he mounted and rode forth. But soon came the direful tidings that he too had fallen.

紹曰：“誰敢去戰？”袁術背後轉出驍將俞涉曰：“小將願往。”紹喜，便著俞涉出馬。即時報來：“俞涉與華雄戰不三合，被華雄斬了。”衆大驚。太守韓馥曰：“吾有上將潘鳳，可斬華雄。”紹急令出戰。潘鳳手提大斧上馬。去不多時，飛馬來報：“潘鳳又被華雄斬了。”

The faces of the gathering paled at this. “What a pity my two able leaders, Yan Liang and Wen Chou, are not here! Then should we have some one who would not fear this man,” said the chief. He had not finished when from the lower end a voice cried, “I will go, take his head and lay it before you here.” All turned to look at the speaker. He was tall and had a long beard. His eyes were those of a phœnix and his eyebrows thick and bushy like caterpillars. His face was a swarthy red and his voice deep as the sound of a great bell.

衆皆失色。紹曰：“可惜吾上將顏良、文醜未至！得一人在此，何懼華雄！”言未畢，階下一人大呼出曰：“小將願往斬華雄頭，獻於帳下！”衆視之，見其人身長九尺，髯長二尺，丹鳳眼，臥蠶眉，面如重棗，聲如巨鍾，立於帳前。

“Who is he?” asked the chief. Gongsun Zan told them it was Guan Yu, brother of Liu Xuande. “And what is he?” “He is in the train of Liu Xuande as a mounted archer.” “An insult to us all!” roared the chief’s brother from his place. “Have we no leader? How dare an archer speak thus before us? Let us beat him forth!” But Cao Cao intervened. “Peace, O Gonglu! Since he speaks great words, he is certainly valiant. Let him try. If he fail, then you may reproach him.”

紹問何人。公孫瓚曰：“此劉玄德之弟關羽也。”紹問現居何職。瓚曰：“跟隨劉玄德充馬弓手。”帳上袁術大喝曰：“汝欺吾衆諸侯無大將耶？量一弓手，安敢亂言！與我打出！”曹操急止之曰：“公路息怒。此人既出大言，必有勇略；試教出馬，如其不勝，責之未遲。”

“Hua Xiong will laugh at us if we send a mere archer to fight him,” said the chief. “He looks no common person. And how can the enemy know he is but a bowman?” said Cao Cao. “If I fail then can you take my head,” cried Guan. Cao Cao bade them heat some wine and offered a stirrup cup to Guan Yu as he went out. “Pour it out,” said Guan. “I shall return in a little space.” He went with his sword in his hand and vaulted into the saddle. Those in the tent heard the fierce roll of the drums and then a mighty sound as if skies were falling and earth rising, hills trembling and mountains tearing asunder. And they were sore afraid.

袁紹曰：“使一弓手出戰，必被華雄所笑。”操曰：“此人儀表不俗，華雄安知他是弓手？”關公曰：“如不勝，請斬某頭。”操教釃熱酒一杯，與關公飲了上馬。關公曰：“酒且斟下，某去便來。”出帳提刀，飛身上馬。衆諸侯聽得關外鼓聲大振，喊聲大舉，如天摧地塌，嶽撼山崩，衆皆失驚。

And while they were listening with ears intent, lo! the gentle tinkle of horse bells, and Guan Yu threw at their feet the head of the slain leader, their enemy Hua Xiong. The wine was still warm!

正欲探聽，鸞鈴響處，馬到中軍，雲長提華雄之頭，擲於地上。其酒尚溫。

This doughty deed has been celebrated in verse.
The power of the man stands first in all the world;
At the gate of the camp was heard the rolling of the battle drums;
Then Yunchang set aside the wine cup till he should have displayed his valour,
And the wine was still warm when the enemy had been slain.
Cao Cao was pleased at this success.

後人有詩讚之曰：“威鎮乾坤第一功，轅門畫鼓響鼕鼕。
雲長停盞施英勇，酒尚溫時斬華雄。
”曹操大喜。

But Zhang Fei’s voice was heard, shouting, “Brother, you slew the leader; why did you not break through the Pass and seize Dong Zhuo? Could there have been a better time?” Again arose the voice of the peevish Yuan Shu, “We high officials are too meek and yielding. Here is the petty follower of a small magistrate daring to flaunt his prowess before us! Expel him from the tent, I say.” But again Cao Cao interposed, “Shall we consider the station of him who has done a great service?”

只見玄德背後轉出張飛，高聲大叫：“俺哥哥斬了華雄，不就這裏殺入關去，活拿董卓，更待何時！”袁術大怒，喝曰：“俺大臣尚自謙讓，量一縣令手下小卒，安敢在此耀武揚威！都與趕出帳去！”曹操曰：“得功者賞，何計貴賤乎？”

“If you hold a mere magistrate in such honour then I simply withdraw,” said Yuan Shu. “Is a word enough to defeat a grand enterprise?” said Cao Cao. He told Gongsun Zan to lead his three companions back to their own camp and the other chiefs then dispersed. That night he secretly sent presents of flesh and wine to soothe the three after this adventure. When Hua Xiong’s men straggled back and told the story of defeat and death Li Su was greatly distressed. He wrote urgent letters to his master

袁術曰：“既然公等只重一縣令，我當告退。”操曰：“豈可因一言而誤大事耶？”命公孫瓚且帶玄德、關、張回寨。衆官皆散。曹操暗使人齎牛酒撫慰三人。卻說華雄手下敗軍，報上關來。李肅慌忙寫告急文書，申聞董卓。

who called in his trusted advisers to a council. Li Ru summed up the situation. “We have lost our best leader and the rebel power has thereby become very great. Yuan Shao is at the head of this confederacy and Yuan Wei of the same family is holder of high office in the government. If those in the capital combine with those in the country we may suffer. Therefore we must remove them. So I request you, Sir Minister, to place yourself at the head of your army and break this confederation.” Dong Zhuo agreed and at once ordered Li Jue and Guo Si to take half a company and surround the residence of Yuan Wei, the Grand Tutor, slay every soul, and hang the head of the high officer outside the gate as a trophy.

卓急聚李儒、呂布等商議。儒曰：“今失了上將華雄，賊勢浩大。袁紹爲盟主，紹叔袁隗，現爲太傅；倘或裏應外合，深爲不便，可先除之。請丞相親領大軍，分撥剿捕。”卓然其說，喚李催、郭汜領兵五百，圍住太傅袁隗家，不分老幼，盡皆誅絕，先將袁隗首級去關前號令。

And Zhuo commanded twenty legions to advance in two armies. The first five legions were under Li Jue and Guo Si and they were to hold Sishui Pass. They should not necessarily fight. The other fifteen legions under Dong Zhuo himself went to Tigertrap Pass. This Pass is fifty li from Luoyang and as soon as they arrived Dong Zhuo bade Lü Bu take three legions and make a strong stockade on the outside of the Pass. The main body with Zhuo would occupy the Pass.

卓遂起兵二十萬，分爲兩路而來：一路先令李傕、郭汜引兵五萬，把住汜水關，不要廝殺；卓自將十五萬，同李儒、呂布、樊稠、張濟等守虎牢關。這關離洛陽五十里。軍馬到關，卓令呂布領三萬軍，去關前扎住大寨。卓自在關上屯住。

News of this movement reaching the confederate lords the chief summoned a council. Said Cao Cao, “The occupation of the Pass would cut our armies in two, therefore must we oppose Dong Zhuo’s army on the way.” So eight of the confederate lords went in the direction of the Pass to oppose their enemy. Cao Cao and his men were a reserve to render help where needed.

流星馬探聽得，報入袁紹大寨裏來。紹聚衆商議。操曰：“董卓屯兵虎牢，截俺諸侯中路，今可勒兵一半迎敵。”紹乃分王匡、喬瑁、鮑信、袁遺、孫融、張楊、陶謙、公孫瓚八路諸侯，往虎牢關迎敵。操引軍往來救應。八路諸侯，各自起兵。

Of the eight, the Prefect of Henei was the first to arrive and Lü Bu went to give battle with three companies of mailed horsemen. When Wang Kuang, Prefect of Henei, had ordered his army, horse and foot, in battle array he took his station under the great banner and looked over at his foe. There he saw Lü Bu, a conspicuous figure in front of the line. On his head was a triple curved headdress of ruddy gold. He wore a robe of Xichuan silk embroidered with flowers and over that breast and back mail adorned with a gaping animal’s head, joined by rings at the sides and girt to his waist with a belt fastened by a beautiful lion-head clasp. His bow and arrows were slung on his shoulders and he carried a trident-halberd (huaji). He was seated on his snorting steed “Red Hare”. Indeed he was the man among men, as his steed was the horse among horses.

河內太守王匡，引兵先到。呂布帶鐵騎三千，飛奔來迎。王匡將軍馬列成陣勢，勒馬門旗下看時，見呂布出陣：頭戴三叉束髮紫金冠，體掛西川紅錦百花袍，身披獸面吞頭連環鎧，腰繫勒甲玲瓏獅蠻帶；弓箭隨身，手持畫戟，坐下嘶風赤兔馬：果然是“人中呂布，馬中赤兔”！

“Who dares go out to fight him?” asked Wang Kuang turning to those behind him. In response a tried warrior named Fang spurred to the front, his spear set ready for battle. The two met: before the fifth bout Fang fell under a thrust of the halberd and Lü Bu dashed forward. Wang Kuang’s men could not stand and scattered in all directions. Lü Bu went to and fro slaying all he met. He was quite irresistible. Happily two other troops came up and rescued the wounded leader and his opponent retreated.

王匡回頭問曰：“誰敢出戰？”後面一將，縱馬挺槍而出。匡視之，乃河內名將方悅。兩馬相交，無五合，被呂布一戟刺於馬下，挺戟直衝過來。匡軍大敗，四散奔走。布東西衝殺，如入無人之境。幸得喬瑁、袁遺兩軍皆至，來救王匡，呂布方退。

The three having lost many men withdrew thirty li and made a stockade. And before long the remaining five lords came up and joined them. They held a council. “This Lü Bu is irresistible,” said they.

三路諸侯，各折了些人馬，退三十里下寨。隨後五路軍馬都至，一處商議，言呂布英雄，無人可敵。

And while they sat there anxious and uncertain, it was announced that Lü Bu had returned to challenge them. Each mounted his horse and placed himself at the head of his force, each body in its station on lofty cliffs. Around them was the opposing army, innumerable horse and foot, their embroidered banners waving in the breeze. They attacked. Mu Shun, a leader from Shangdang, rode out, but fell at the first encounter with Lü Bu. This frightened the others. Then galloped forth Wu Anguo of the iron mace.

正慮間，小校報來：“呂布搦戰。”八路諸侯，一齊上馬。軍分八隊，布在高岡。遙望呂布一簇軍馬，繡旗招颭，先來衝陣。上黨太守張楊部將穆順，出馬挺槍迎戰，被呂布手起一戟，刺於馬下。衆大驚。北海太守孔融部將武安國，使鐵錘飛馬而出。

Lü Bu whirling his halberd and urging on his steed came to meet him. The two fought, well matched for half a score bouts, when a blow from the halberd broke Wu Anguo’s wrist. Letting his mace fall to the ground he fled. Then all eight of the lords led forth their men to his rescue and Lü Bu retired. The fighting then ceased and after their return to camp another council met. Cao Cao said, “No one can stand against the prowess of Lü Bu. Let us call up all the lords and evolve some good plan. If only Lü Bu were taken, his master could easily be killed.”

呂布揮戟拍馬來迎。戰到十餘合，一戟砍斷安國手腕，棄錘於地而走。八路軍兵齊出，救了武安國。呂布退回去了。衆諸侯回寨商議。曹操曰：“呂布英勇無敵，可會十八路諸侯，共議良策。若擒了呂布，董卓易誅耳。”

While the council was in progress again came Lü Bu to challenge them and again they moved out against him. This time Gongsun Zan, flourishing his spear, went to meet the enemy. After a very few bouts Zan turned and fled, Lü Bu following at the topmost speed of “Red Hare.” “Red Hare” was a thousand-li-a-day horse, swift as the wind. As they watched “Red Hare” gained rapidly upon the flying horseman and his rider’s spear was poised ready to strike Zan just behind the heart. Just then dashed in a third rider with round glaring eyes and a bristling moustache, and armed with a long snake-like spear. “Stay, O thrice named slave!” roared he,

正議間，呂布復引兵搦戰。八路諸侯齊出。公孫瓚揮槊親戰呂布。戰不數合，瓚敗走。呂布縱赤兔馬趕來。那馬日行千里，飛走如風。看看趕上，布舉畫戟望瓚後心便刺。傍邊一將，圓睜環眼，倒豎虎鬚，挺丈八蛇矛，飛馬大叫：“三姓家奴休走！

“I, Zhang Fei, await you.” Seeing this opponent Lü Bu left the pursuit of Zan and engaged the new adversary. Fei fought with all his energies. They two were worthily matched and they exchanged half a hundred bouts with no advantage to either side. Then Guan Yu rode out with his huge and weighty moon-curved sword and attacked Lü Bu on the other flank. The three steeds stood like the letter T and their riders battered away at each other for nearly two score bouts, yet still Lü Bu stood firm. Then Liu Xuande rode out to his brothers’ aid, his double sword raised ready to strike. The steed with the flowing mane was urged in at an angle

燕人張飛在此！”呂布見了，棄了公孫瓚，便戰張飛。飛抖擻精神，酣戰呂布。連鬥五十餘合，不分勝負。雲長見了，把馬一拍，舞八十二斤青龍偃月刀，來夾攻呂布。三匹馬丁字兒廝殺。戰到三十合，戰不倒呂布。劉玄德掣雙股劍，驟黃鬃馬，刺斜裏也來助戰。

and now Lü Bu had to contend with three warriors at whom he struck one after another, and they at him, the flashing of the warriors’ weapons looking like the revolving lamps suspended at the new year. And the spectators gazed rapt with amazement at such a battle. But Lü Bu’s guard began to weaken and fatigue seized him. Looking hard in the face of Xuande he feigned a fierce thrust thus making him suddenly draw back. Then, lowering his halberd, Lü dashed through the angle thus opened and got away. But was it likely they would allow him to escape? They whipped their steeds and followed hard. The men of the eight armies cracked their throats with thunderous cheers and all dashed forward, pressing after Lü Bu as he made for the shelter of the Pass.

這三個圍住呂布。轉燈兒般廝殺。八路人馬，都看得呆了。呂布架隔遮攔不定，看着玄德面上，虛刺一戟，玄德急閃。呂布盪開陣角，倒拖畫戟，飛馬便回。三個那裏肯舍，拍馬趕來。八路軍兵，喊聲大震，一齊掩殺。

And first among his pursuers were the three heroic brothers. An ancient poet has told of this famous fight in these lines: The fateful day of Han came in the reigns of Huan and Ling,
Their glory declined as the sun sinks at the close of day.
Dong Zhuo, infamous minister of state, pulled down the youthful sovereign from his throne.
It is true Liu Xie was a weakling, too timid for his times.
Then Cao Cao proclaimed abroad these wicked deeds,
And the great lords, moved with anger, assembled their forces.
In council met they and chose as their oath-chief Yuan Shao,
Pledged themselves to maintain the ruling house and tranquillity.

呂布軍馬望關上奔走；玄德、關、張隨後趕來。古人曾有篇言語，單道着玄德、關、張三戰呂布：“漢朝天數當桓靈，炎炎紅日將西傾。奸臣董卓廢少帝，劉協懦弱魂夢驚。曹操傳檄告天下，諸侯奮怒皆興兵。議立袁紹作盟主，誓扶王室定太平。

Of the warriors of that time peerless Lü Bu was the boldest
His valour and prowess are sung by all within the four seas.
He clothed his body in silver armour like the scales of a dragon,
On his head was a golden headdress, fastened with a massive pin,
About his waist a shaggy belt, the clasp, two wild beasts’ heads with gripping jaws,
His flowing, broidered robe fluttered about his form,
His swift courser bounded over the plain, a mighty wind following,
His terrible halberd flashed in the sunlight, bright as a placid lake.
Who dared face him as he rode forth to challenge?
The bowels of the confederate lords were torn with fear and their hearts trembled within them.
Then leaped forth Zhang Fei, the valiant warrior of the north,
Gripped in his mighty hand the long snakelike spear,

溫侯呂布世無比，雄才四海誇英偉。護軀銀鎧砌龍鱗，束髮金冠簪雉尾。參差寶帶獸平吞，錯落錦袍飛鳳起。龍駒跳踏起天風，畫戟熒煌射秋水。出關搦戰誰敢當？諸侯膽裂心惶惶。踊出燕人張冀德，手持蛇矛丈八槍。

His moustache bristled with anger, standing stiff like wire.
His round eyes glared, lightning flashes darted from them.
Neither quailed in the fight, but the issue was undecided.
Guan Yunchang stood out in front, his soul vexed within him,
Black Dragon his sword shone white as hoar frost in the sunlight,
His bright coloured fighting robe fluttered like butterfly wings,
Demons and angels shrieked at the thunder of his horse hoofs,
In his eyes was fierce anger, a fire to be quenched only in blood.
Next Xuande joined the battle, gripping his twin sword blades,
The heavens themselves trembled at the majesty of his wrath.
These three closely beset Lü Bu and long drawn out was the battle,
Always he warded their blows, never faltering a moment.

虎鬚倒豎翻金線，環眼圓睜起電光。酣戰未能分勝敗，陣前惱起關雲長。青龍寶刀燦霜雪，鸚鵡戰袍飛蛺蝶。馬蹄到處鬼神嚎，目前一怒應流血。梟雄玄德掣雙鋒，抖擻天威施勇烈。三人圍繞戰多時，遮攔架隔無休歇。

The noise of their shouting rose to the sky, and the earth re-echoed it,
The heat of battle ranged to the frozen pole star.
Worn out, feeling his strength fast ebbing, Lü Bu thought to flee,
He glanced at the hills around and thither would fly for shelter.
Then, reversing his halberd and lowering its lofty point,
Hastily he fled, loosing himself from the battle;
With head low bent, he gave the rein to his courser,
Turned his face away and fled to Hulaoguan. The three brothers maintained the pursuit to the Pass. Looking up they saw an immense umbrella of black gauze fluttering in the west wind. “Certainly there is Dong Zhuo,” cried Zhang Fei.

喊聲震動天地翻，殺氣迷漫牛鬥寒。呂布力窮尋走路，遙望家山拍馬還。倒拖畫杆方天戟，亂散銷金五彩幡。頓斷絨絛走赤兔，翻身飛上虎牢關。”三人直趕呂布到關下，看見關上西風飄動青羅傘蓋。張飛大叫：“此必董卓！

“What is the use of pursuing Lü Bu? Better far seize the chief rebel and so pluck up the evil by the roots.” And he whipped up his steed toward the Pass.

追呂布有甚強處？不如先拿董賊，便是斬草除根！”拍馬上關，來擒董卓。

To quell rebellion seize the leader if you can;
If you need a wondrous service then first find a wondrous man.
The following chapters will unfold the result of the battle.

正是：擒賊定須擒賊首，奇功端的待奇人。
未知勝負如何，且聽下文分解。