Romance, Chapter 11

Chapter 11. Liu, the Emperor’s Uncle, Rescues Kong Rong: Lu, Marquis of Wen, Defeats Cao Cao

It was one Mi Zhu who said he knew how to defeat Cao Cao utterly. He came of a wealthy family of merchants trading in Luoyang. One day travelling homeward from that city in a carriage he met an exquisitely beautiful lady trudging along the road, who asked him to let her ride. He stopped and yielded his place to her. She invited him to share the seat with her. He mounted, but sat rigidly upright never even glancing in her direction. They travelled thus for some miles when she thanked him and alighted. Just as she left she said, “I am the embodied spirit of the Southern Heat. I am on my way to execute a decree of the Supreme to burn your dwelling, but your extreme courtesy has so deeply touched me that I now warn you. Hasten homeward, remove your valuables for I must arrive to-night.”

卻說獻計之人，乃東海朐縣人，姓糜，名竺，字子仲。此人家世富豪，嘗往洛陽買賣，乘車而回，路遇一美婦人，來求同載，竺乃下車步行，讓車與婦人坐。婦人請竺同載。竺上車端坐，目不邪視。行及數里，婦人辭去；臨別對竺曰：“我乃南方火德星君也，奉上帝敕，往燒汝家。

Thereupon she disappeared. Mi Zhu hastily finished his journey and as soon as he arrived moved everything out of his house. Sure enough that night a fire started in the kitchen and involved the whole house. After this he devoted his wealth to relieving the poor and comforting the afflicted. Tao Qian gave him the office he then held. The plan he proposed was this. “I will go to Beihai and beg Kong Rong to help; another should go to Qingzhou on a similar mission, and if the armies of these two places march on our enemy he will certainly retire.”

感君相待以禮，故明告君。君可速歸，搬出財物。吾當夜來。”言訖不見。竺大驚，飛奔到家，將家中所有，疾忙搬出。是晚果然廚中火起，盡燒其屋。竺因此廣捨家財，濟貧拔苦。後陶謙聘爲別駕從事。當日獻計曰：“某願親往北海郡，求孔融起兵救援；更得一人往青州田楷處求救：若二處軍馬齊來，操必退兵矣。”

The Prefect accepted the plan and wrote letters. He asked for a volunteer to go to Qingzhou and a certain Chen Deng offered himself and, after he had left, Mi Zhu was formally entrusted with the mission to the north. Meanwhile they would hold the city as they could.

謙從之，遂寫書二封，問帳下誰人敢去青州求救。一人應聲願往。衆視之，乃廣陵人，姓陳，名登，字元龍。陶謙先打發陳元龍往青州去訖，然後命糜竺齎書赴北海，自己率衆守城，以備攻擊。

This Kong was a native of Qufu in the old state of Lü, one of the twentieth generation in descent from the great Teacher Confucius. He had been noted as a very intelligent lad, somewhat precocious. When ten years old he had gone to see Li Ying, the Governor, but the doorkeeper demurred to letting him in. But when he said, “I am Minister Li’s intimate friend,” he was admitted. Li asked him what relations had existed between their families that might justify the term intimate. The boy replied, “Of old my ancestor (Kong) questioned yours (Laozi, whose name was Li Er) concerning ceremonies. So our families have known each other for many generations.”

卻說北海孔融，字文舉，魯國曲阜人也，孔子二十世孫，泰山都尉孔宙之子。自小聰明，年十歲時，往謁河南尹李膺，閽人難之，融曰：“我係李相通家。”及入見，膺問曰：“汝祖與吾祖何親？”融曰：“昔孔子曾問禮於老子，融與君豈非累世通家？”

His host was astonished at the boy’s ready wit. Presently another visitor of high rank came in, to whom Li Ying told the story of his youthful guest. “He is a wonder, this boy,” said Li. The visitor replied, “It does not follow that a clever boy grows up into a clever man.” The lad took him up at once saying “By what you say, Sir, you were certainly one of the clever boys.” They all laughed. “The boy is going to be a noble vessel,” said they. Thus from boyhood he was famous. As a man he rose to be a Zhonglang Jiang, and was sent as Governor to Beihai, where he was renowned for hospitality. He used to quote the lines:— “Let the rooms be full of friends, And the cups be full of wine.” “That is what I like,” said he.

膺大奇之。少頃，太中大夫陳煒至。膺指融曰：“此奇童也。”煒曰：“小時聰明，大時未必聰明。”融即應聲曰：“如君所言，幼時必聰明者。”煒等皆笑曰：“此子長成，必當代之偉器也。”自此得名。後爲中郎將，累遷北海太守。極好賓客，常曰：“座上客常滿，樽中酒不空：吾之願也。”

After six years at Beihai the people were devoted to him. The day that Mi Zhu arrived he was, as usual, seated among his guests and the messenger was ushered in without delay. In reply to a question about the reason of the visit he presented his letter which said that Cao Cao was pressing on the city and the Prefect prayed for help. Then said Kong Rong, “Your master and I are good friends and your presence here constrains me to go to his aid. However I have no quarrel with Cao Mengde either, so I will first write to him to try to make peace.

在北海六年，甚得民心。當日正與客坐，人報徐州糜竺至。融請入見，問其來意，竺出陶謙書，言：“曹操攻圍甚急，望明公垂救。”融曰：“吾與陶恭祖交厚，子仲又親到此，如何不去？只是曹孟德與我無仇，當先遣人送書解和。

If he refuses my offer, then I must set the army in motion.” “Cao Cao will not listen to proposals of peace; he is too certain of his strength,” said the messenger. Kong Rong wrote his letter and also gave orders to muster his men. Just at this moment happened another rising of the Yellow Turbans, and the ruffians began to rob and murder at Beihai. It was necessary to deal with them first and Kong led his army outside the city. The rebel leader rode out to the front saying, “I know this district is fruitful and can well spare ten thousand ‘stone’ of grain. Give me that and we retire: refuse, and we will batter down the city walls and destroy every soul.”

如其不從，然後起兵。”竺曰：“曹操倚仗兵威，決不肯和。”融教一面點兵，一面差人送書。正商議間，忽報黃巾賊黨管亥部領羣寇數萬殺奔前來。孔融大驚，急點本部人馬，出城與賊迎戰。管亥出馬曰：“吾知北海糧廣，可借一萬石，即便退兵；不然，打破城池，老幼不留！”

The Prefect shouted back, “I am a servant of the great Han, entrusted with the safety of their land. Think you I will feed rebels?” The leader Guan Hai whipped his steed, whirled his sword around his head and rode forward. Zong Bao, one of Kong’s captains, set his spear and rode out to give him battle, but after a very few bouts was cut down. Soon the soldiers fell into confusion and rushed pell-mell into the city for protection. The rebels then laid seige to the city on all sides. Kong Rong was very down-hearted and Mi Zhu, who now saw no hope for the success of his mission, was grieved beyond words.

孔融叱曰：“吾乃大漢之臣，守大漢之地，豈有糧米與賊耶！”管亥大怒，拍馬舞刀，直取孔融，融將宗寶挺槍出馬；戰不數合，被管亥一刀，砍宗寶於馬下。孔融兵大亂，奔入城中。管亥分兵四面圍城，孔融心中鬱悶。

The sight from the city wall was exceeding sad, for the rebels were there in enormous numbers. One day as the Prefect stood on the wall, he saw a man armed with a spear riding hard in among his enemies and scattering them before him like chaff before the wind. Before long he had reached the foot of the wall and called out, “Open the gate!” But the defenders would not open to an unknown man and in the delay a crowd of rebels gathered round the rider along the edge of the moat. Suddenly wheeling about, the warrior dashed in among them and bowled over half a score at which the others fell back. At this the Prefect ordered the wardens to open the gates and let the stranger enter.

糜竺懷愁，更不可言。次日，孔融登城遙望，賊勢浩大，倍添憂惱。忽見城外一人挺槍躍馬殺入賊陣，左衝右突，如入無人之境，直到城下，大叫“開門”。孔融不識其人，不敢開門。賊衆趕到壕邊，那人回身連搠十數人下馬，賊衆倒退，融急命開門引入。

As soon as he was inside he dismounted, laid aside his spear, ascended the wall and made humble obeisance to Kong Rong. He said his name was Taishi Ci and he came from Laihuang. His aged mother had sent him out of gratitude for the kindness shown her by Kong. “I only returned home yesterday from the north and then I heard that your city was in danger from a rebel attack. My mother said you had been very kind to her and told me I should try to help. So I set out all alone and here I am.” This was cheering. The Prefect already knew Taishi by reputation as a valiant fighting man although they two had never met.

其人下馬棄槍，徑到城上，拜見孔融。融問其姓名，對曰：“某東萊黃縣人也，覆姓太史，名慈，字子義。老母重蒙恩顧。某昨自遼東回家省親，知賊寇城。老母說：‘屢受府君深恩，汝當往救。’某故單馬而來。”孔融大喜。原來孔融與太史慈雖未識面，卻曉得他是個英雄。

The son being far away from his home the Prefect had taken his mother, who dwelt a few miles from the city, under his especial protection and saw that she did not suffer from want. This had won the old lady’s heart and she had sent her son to show her gratitude.

因他遠出，有老母住在離城二十里之外，融常使人遺以粟帛；母感融德，故特使慈來救。

Kong showed his appreciation by treating his guest with the greatest respect, making him presents of clothing and armour, saddles and horses. Presently said Taishi, “Give me a company and I will go out and drive off these fellows.” “You are a bold warrior, but these are very numerous. It is a serious matter to go out among them,” said Kong. “My mother sent me because of your goodness to her. How shall I be able to look her in the face if I do not raise the siege? I would prefer to conquer or perish.” “I have heard Liu Xuande is one of the finest warriors in the world and if we could get his help there would be no doubt of the result.

當下孔融重待太史慈，贈與衣甲鞍馬。慈曰：“某願借精兵一千，出城殺賊。”融曰：“君雖英勇，然賊勢甚盛，不可輕出。”慈曰：“老母感君厚德，特遣慈來；如不能解圍，慈亦無顏見母矣。願決一死戰！”融曰：“吾聞劉玄德乃當世英雄，若請得他來相救，此圍自解。

But there is no one to send.” “I will go as soon as I have received your letter.” So Kong wrote letters and gave them to his new helper. Taishi put on his armour, mounted his steed, attached his bow and quiver to his girdle, took his spear in his hand, tied his packed haversack firmly to his saddle bow and rode out at the city gate. He went quite alone. Along the moat a large party of the besiegers were gathered and they came to intercept the solitary rider. But he dashed in among them and cut down several and so finally fought his way through. The rebel leader, hearing that a rider had left the city, guessed what his errand would be and followed Taishi with a party of horsemen. He spread them out so that the messenger rider was entirely surrounded.

只無人可使耳。”慈曰：“府君修書，某當急往。”融喜，修書付慈，慈擐甲上馬，腰帶弓矢，手持鐵槍，飽食嚴裝，城門開處，一騎飛出。近壕，賊將率衆來戰。慈連搠死數人，透圍而出。管亥知有人出城，料必是請救兵的，便自引數百騎趕來，八面圍定。

Then Taishi laid aside his spear, took his bow, adjusted his arrows one by one and shot all round him. And as a rider fell from his steed with every twang of his bowstring, the pursuers dared not close in.

慈倚住槍，拈弓搭箭，八面射之，無不應弦落馬。賊衆不敢來追。

Thus he got clear away and rode in hot haste to Liu Xuande. He reached Pingyuan and after greeting his host in proper form he told how Kong Beihai was surrounded and had sent him for help. Then he presented the letter which Liu Bei read. “Who are you?” asked he. “I am Taishi Ci, a stupid fellow from Donghai. I am not related by ties of kin to Kong Rong, nor even by ties of neighbourhood, but I am by the bonds of sentiment and I share his sorrows and misfortunes.

太史慈得脫，星夜投平原來見劉玄德。施禮罷，具言孔北海被圍求救之事，呈上書札。玄德看畢，問慈曰：“足下何人？”慈曰：“某太史慈，東海之鄙人也。與孔融親非骨肉，比非鄉黨，特以氣誼相投，有分憂共患之意。

The rebel Guan has invested his city and he is distressed with none to turn to and destruction is very near. You are known as humane and righteous and you are able to rescue him. Therefore at his command I have braved all dangers and fought my way through his enemies to pray you to save him.” Liu Xuande smiled, saying, “And does he know of my existence?” So the three brothers told off three companies and set out to help raise the siege.

今管亥暴亂，北海被圍，孤窮無告，危在旦夕。聞君仁義素著，能救人危急，故特令某冒鋒突圍，前來求救。”玄德斂容答曰：“孔北海知世間有劉備耶？”乃同雲長、翼德點精兵三千，往北海郡進發。

When the rebel leader saw these new forces arriving he led out his army to fight them, thinking he could easily dispose of so small a force. The brothers and Taishi Ci with them sat on their horses in the forefront of their array. Guan Hai, the rebel leader, hastened forward. Taishi held back to allow Guan Yu to open the combat. He rode forth and the two steeds met. The soldiers set up a great shout, for how could there be any doubt of the result? After a few bouts Black Dragon rose and fell, and with the stroke fell the rebel leader.

管亥望見救軍來到，親自引兵迎敵；因見玄德兵少，不以爲意。玄德與關、張、太史慈立馬陣前，管亥忿怒直出。太史慈卻待向前，雲長早出，直取管亥。兩馬相交，衆軍大喊。量管亥怎敵得雲長，數十合之間，青龍刀起，劈管亥於馬下。

This was the signal for the two other warriors to take a share and they advanced side by side. With their spears ready they dashed in and Xuande urged forward his men. The besieged Prefect saw his doughty rescuers laying low the rebels as tigers among a flock of sheep. None could withstand them and he then sent out his own men to join in the battle so that the rebels were between two armies. The rebels’ force was completely broken and many men surrendered, while the remainder scattered in all directions. The victors were welcomed into the city and as soon as possible a banquet was prepared in their honour.

太史慈、張飛兩騎齊出，雙槍並舉，殺入賊陣。玄德驅兵掩殺。城上孔融望見太史慈與關、張趕殺賊衆，如虎入羊羣，縱橫莫當，便驅兵出城。兩下夾攻，大敗羣賊，降者無數，餘黨潰散。孔融迎接玄德入城，敘禮畢，大設筵宴慶賀。

Mi Zhu was presented to Liu Xuande and he related the story of the murder of Cao Song by Zhang Kai and Cao’s vengeful attack on Xuzhou and his coming to beg for assistance. Xuande said, “Tao Gongzu is a kindly man of high character, and it is a pity that he should suffer this wrong for no fault of his own.” “You are a scion of the imperial family,” said the Prefect, “and this Cao Cao is injuring the people, a strong man abusing his strength. Why not go with me to rescue the sufferers?” “I dare not refuse, but my force is weak and I must act cautiously,” said Liu Bei.

又引糜竺來見玄德，具言張闓殺曹嵩之事：“今曹操縱兵大掠，圍住徐州，特來求救。”玄德曰：“陶恭祖乃仁人君子，不意受此無辜之冤。”孔融曰：“公乃漢室宗親。今曹操殘害百姓，倚強欺弱，何不與融同往救之？”玄德曰：“備非敢推辭，奈兵微將寡，恐難輕動。”

“Though my desire to help arises from an old friendship, yet it is a righteous act as well. Is it that your heart is not inclined toward the right?” said Kong. Liu Bei said, “This being so, you go first and give me time to see Gongsun Zan from whom I may borrow more men and horses. I will come anon.” “You surely will not break your promise?” said the Prefect. “What manner of man think you that I am?” said Xuande. “The wise one said, ‘Death is common to all: the man without truth cannot maintain himself.’

孔融曰：“融之慾救陶恭祖，雖因舊誼，亦爲大義。公豈獨無仗義之心耶？”玄德曰：“既如此，請文舉先行，容備去公孫瓚處，借三五千人馬，隨後便來。”融曰；“公切勿失信。”玄德曰：“公以備爲何如人也？聖人云：自古皆有死，人無信不立。

Whether I get the men or not, certainly I shall myself come.” So the plan was agreed to. Mi Zhu set out to return forthwith while Kong Rong prepared for his expedition. Taishi Ci took his leave saying, “My mother bade me come to your aid and now happily you are safe. Letters have come from my fellow townsman, Liu Yao, Governor of Yangzhou, calling me thither and I must go. I will see you again.” Kong pressed rewards upon him but he would accept nothing and went away.

劉備借得軍、或借不得軍，必然親至。”孔融應允，教糜竺先回徐州去報，融便收拾起程。太史慈拜謝曰：“慈奉母命前來相助，今幸無虞。有揚州刺史劉繇，與慈同郡，有書來喚，不敢不去。容圖再見。”融以金帛相酬，慈不肯受而歸。

When his mother saw him she was pleased at his success saying she rejoiced that he had been able to prove his gratitude, and after this he departed for Yangzhou. Here nothing will be said of the departure of the relieving force. But Xuande went away to his friend Gongsun Zan and laid before him his design to help Xuzhou. “Cao Cao and you are not enemies; why do you spend yourself for the sake of another?” said Zan. “I have promised,” he replied, “and dare not break faith.” “I will lend you two companies, horse and foot,” said Zan.

其母見之，喜曰：“我喜汝有以報北海也！”遂遣慈往揚州去了。不說孔融起兵。且說玄德離北海來見公孫瓚，具說欲救徐州之事。瓚曰：“曹操與君無仇，何苦替人出力？”玄德曰：“備已許人，不敢失信。”瓚曰：“我借與君馬步軍二千。”

“Also I wish to have the services of Zhao Zilong,” said Xuande. Zan agreed to this also. They marched away, their own men being in the front and Zhao Zilong, with the borrowed men, being in rear.

玄德曰：“更望借趙子龍一行。”瓚許之。玄德遂與關、張引本部三千人爲前部，子龍引二千人隨後，往徐州來。

In due course Mi Zhu returned saying that Kong Rong had also obtained the services of the three warrior brothers. The other messenger, Chen Yuanlong, came back and reported that Tian Kai would also bring help. Then was the Prefect’s heart set at ease. But both the leaders, though they had promised aid, greatly dreaded their antagonist and camped among the hills at a great distance, fearful of coming to close quarters. Cao Cao knew of their coming and divided his army into parts to meet them, so postponing the attack on the city itself.

卻說糜竺回報陶謙，言北海又請得劉玄德來助；陳元龍也回報青州田楷欣然領兵來救；陶謙心安。原來孔融、田楷兩路軍馬，懼怕曹兵勢猛，遠遠依山下寨，未敢輕進。曹操見兩路軍到，亦分了軍勢，不敢向前攻城。

Presently Liu Bei came up and went to see Kong Rong, who said, “The enemy is very powerful and Cao Cao handles his army skilfully. We must be cautious. Let us make most careful observations before we strike a blow.” “What I fear is famine in the city,” said Liu Bei. “They cannot hold out very long. I will put my men with yours under your command while I with Zhang Fei make a dash through to see Tao Qian and consult with him.”

卻說劉玄德軍到，見孔融。融曰：“曹兵勢大，操又善於用兵，未可輕戰。且觀其動靜，然後進兵。”玄德曰：“但恐城中無糧，難以久持。備令雲長、子龍領軍四千，在公部下相助；備與張飛殺奔曹營，徑投徐州去見陶使君商議。”

Kong Rong approved of this, so he and Tian Kai took up positions on the “ox horn formation,” with Guan Yu and Zhao Yun on either side to support them. The day that Liu Bei and his company made their dash to get through Cao’s army they got as far as the flank of his camp when there arose a great beating of drums, and horse and foot rolled out like billows on the ocean. The leader was Yu Jin. He checked his steed and called out, “You mad men from somewhere, where are you going?”

融大喜，會合田楷，爲掎角之勢；雲長、子龍領兵兩邊接應。是日玄德、張飛引一千人馬殺入曹兵寨邊。正行之間，寨內一聲鼓響，馬軍步軍，如潮似浪，擁將出來。當頭一員大將，乃是于禁，勒馬大叫：“何處狂徒！往那裏去！”

Zhang Fei heard him but deigned no reply. He only rode straight to attack the speaker. After they had fought a few bouts Xuande waved his double sword as signal for his men to come on and they drove Yu Jin before them. Zhang Fei led the pursuit and in this way they reached the city wall.

張飛見了，更不打話，直取于禁。兩馬相交，戰到數合，玄德掣雙股劍麾兵大進，于禁敗走。張飛當前追殺，直到徐州城下。

From the city wall the besieged saw a huge banner embroidered in white with the name of Liu Bei and the Prefect bade them open the gate for the rescuers to enter. The leader was made very welcome, conducted to the residency and a banquet prepared in his honour. The men also were feasted. Tao Qian was delighted with Liu Bei, admiring his noble appearance and clear speech. He bade Mi Zhu offer him the seal and insignia of office. But the visitor shrank back startled. “What does this mean?” said he.

城上望見紅旗白字，大書“平原劉玄德”，陶謙急令開門。玄德入城，陶謙接着，共到府衙。禮畢，設宴相待，一壁勞軍。陶謙見玄德儀表軒昂，語言豁達，心中大喜，便命糜竺取徐州牌印，讓與玄德。玄德愕然曰：“公何意也？”

Tao said, “There is trouble on every side and the kingly rule is no longer maintained. You, Sir, are a member of the family and eminently fitted to support them and their prerogatives. I am verging on senility and I wish to retire in your favour. I pray you not to decline and I will report my action to the Court.” Liu Bei started up from his seat and bowed before his host saying, “Scion of the family I may be, but my merit is small and my virtue meagre. I doubt my fitness even for my present post and only a feeling of doing right sent me to your assistance.

謙曰：“今天下擾亂，王綱不振；公乃漢室宗親，正宜力扶社稷。老夫年邁無能，情願將徐州相讓。公勿推辭。謙當自寫表文，申奏朝廷。”玄德離席再拜曰：“劉備雖漢朝苗裔，功微德薄，爲平原相猶恐不稱職。今爲大義，故來相助。

To hear such speech makes me doubt. Surely you think I came with greed in my heart. May God help me no more if I cherished such a thought.” “It is a poor old man’s real sentiment,” said Tao Qian. Time after time Tao Qian renewed his offer to retire, but how could Liu Bei accept it? In the midst of this came Mi Zhu to say the enemies had reached the wall and something must be done to drive them off. The matter of one officer retiring in favour of the other could await a more tranquil time. Said Liu Bei, “I ought to write to Cao Cao to press him to raise the siege.

公出此言，莫非疑劉備有吞併之心耶？若舉此念，皇天不佑！”謙曰：“此老夫之實情也。”再三相讓，玄德那裏肯受。糜竺進曰：“今兵臨城下，且當商議退敵之策。待事平之日，再當相讓可也。”玄德曰：“備當遺書於曹操，勸令解和。

If he refuse, we will attack forthwith.” Orders were sent to the three camps to remain quiescent till the letters could reach Cao Cao.

操若不從，廝殺未遲。”於是傳檄三寨，且執兵不動；遣人齎書以達曹操。

It happened that Cao Cao was holding a council when a messenger with a war letter was announced. The letter was brought in and handed to him and, when he had opened and looked at it, he found it was from Liu Bei. This is the letter, very nearly:—“Since meeting you outside the pass, fate has assigned us to different quarters of the world and I have not been able to pay my respects to you. Touching the death of your noble father, the Marquis, it was owing to the vicious nature of Zhang Kai and due to no fault of Tao Gongzu. Now while the remnant of the Yellow Turbans is disturbing the provinces and Dong Zhuo’s partizans have the upper hand in the capital,

卻說曹操正在軍中，與諸將議事，人報徐州有戰書到。操拆而觀之，乃劉備書也。書略曰：“備自關外得拜君顏，嗣後天各一方，不及趨侍。曏者，尊父曹侯，實因張闓不仁，以致被害，非陶恭祖之罪也。目今黃巾遺孽，擾亂於外；董卓餘黨，盤踞於內。

I would that you, illustrious Sir, would regard the critical position of the Court rather than your personal grievances and so divert your forces from the attack on Xuzhou to the rescue of the State. Such would be for the happiness of that city and the whole world.” Cao Cao gave vent to a torrent of abuse. “Who is this Liu Bei that he dares write and exhort me? Beside, he means to be satirical.” He issued orders to put the bearer of the letter to death and to press on the siege. But Guo Jia remonstrated, “Liu Bei has come from afar to help Tao and he is trying the effect of politeness before resorting to arms. I pray you, my master, reply with fair words that his heart may be lulled with a feeling of safety. Then attack with vigour and the city will fall.” Cao found this advice good, so he spared the messenger telling him to wait to carry back his reply.

願明公先朝廷之急，而後私仇；撤徐州之兵，以救國難：則徐州幸甚，天下幸甚！”曹操看書，大罵：“劉備何人，敢以書來勸我！且中間有譏諷之意！”命斬來使，一面竭力攻城。郭嘉諫曰：“劉備遠來救援，先禮後兵，主公當用好言答之，以慢備心；然後進兵攻城，城可破也。”操從其言，款留來使，候發回書。

While this was going on a horseman came with news of misfortune. Lü Bu had made a raid on Yanzhou. When Li and Guo, the two partizans of Dong Zhuo, succeeded in their attack on the capital Lü Bu had fled to Yuan Shu, who however looked askance at him for his instability, and refused to receive him. Then he had tried Yuan Shao, who had made use of him in an attack upon Zhang Yan in Changshan. But his success filled him with pride and his arrogant demeanour so annoyed the other commandants that Shao was on the point of putting him to death.

正商議間，忽流星馬飛報禍事。操問其故，報說呂布已襲破兗州，進據濮陽。原來呂布自遭李、郭之亂，逃出武關，去投袁術；術怪呂布反覆不定，拒而不納。投袁紹，紹納之，與布共破張燕於常山。布自以爲得志，傲慢袁紹手下將士。

To escape this he had gone away to Zhang Yang, who accepted his services. About this time Pang Xu, who had been protecting Lü’s family since his disappearance, restored them to him, which deed angered Li and Guo so that they put Pang to death and wrote to Lü Bu’s protector to serve him the same. To escape this Lü Bu once again had to flee and this time joined himself to Zhang Miao. He arrived just as Zhang Miao’s brother was introducing Chen Gong. Gong said to Mo, “The disrupture of the Empire has begun and warriors are seizing what they can. It is strange that you, with all the advantages you enjoy, do not strike for independence.

紹欲殺之。布乃去投張楊，楊納之。時龐舒在長安城中，私藏呂布妻小，送還呂布。李傕、郭汜知之，遂斬龐舒，寫書與張楊，教殺呂布。布因棄張楊去投張邈。恰好張邈弟張超引陳宮來見張邈。宮說邈曰：“今天下分崩，英雄並起；君以千里之衆，而反受制於人，不亦鄙乎！

Cao Cao has gone on an expedition against the east leaving his own district defenceless. Lü Bu is one of the fighting men of the day. If you and he together attacked and got Yanzhou you could then proceed to the dominion.” Zhang Miao was pleased and resolved to try. Soon Lü Bu was in possession of Yanzhou and its neighbourhood, all but three small departments, which were desperately defended. Cao Ren had fought many battles but was always defeated and the messenger with the evil tidings had come from him asking help.

今曹操徵東，兗州空虛；而呂布乃當世勇士，若與之共取兗州，霸業可圖也。”張邈大喜，便令呂布襲破兗州，隨據濮陽。止有鄄城、東阿、范縣三處，被荀彧、程昱設計死守得全，其餘俱破。曹仁屢戰，皆不能勝，特此告急。

Cao Cao was greatly disturbed by this and said, “If my own city be lost I have no home to return to. I must do something at once.” “The best thing would be to become friends with Liu Bei at any cost and return to Yanzhou,” said Guo Jia. Then he wrote to Liu Bei, gave the letter to the waiting messenger and broke camp.

操聞報大驚曰：“兗州有失，使吾無家可歸矣，不可不亟圖之！”郭嘉曰：“主公正好賣個人情與劉備，退軍去復兗州。”操然之，即時答書與劉備，拔寨退兵。

The news that the enemy had left was very gratifying to the Prefect, who then invited his various defenders into the city and prepared banquets and feasts in token of his gratitude. At one of these, when the feasting was over, he proceeded with his scheme of retirement in favour of Liu Bei. Placing him in the seat of highest honour he bowed before him and then addressed the assembly. “I am old and feeble and my two sons lack the ability to hold so important an office as this. The noble Liu is a descendant of the imperial house. He is of lofty virtue and great talent. Let him then take over the rule of this district and only too willingly I shall retire to have leisure to nurse my health.”

且說來使回徐州，入城見陶謙，呈上書札，言曹兵已退。謙大喜，差人請孔融、田楷、雲長、子龍等赴城大會。飲宴既畢，謙延玄德於上座，拱手對衆曰：“老夫年邁，二子不才，不堪國家重任。劉公乃帝室之胄，德廣才高，可領徐州。

Liu Bei replied, “I came at the request of Kong Wenju because it was the right thing to do. Xuzhou is saved, but if I take it surely the world will say I am a wicked man.” Mi Zhu said, “You may not refuse. The House of Han is failing, their realm is crumbling and now is the time for doughty deeds and signal services. This is a fertile district, well populated, and you are the man to rule over it.” “But I dare not accept.”

老夫情願乞閒養病。”玄德曰：“孔文舉令備來救徐州，爲義也。今無端據而有之，天下將以備爲無義人矣。”糜竺曰：“今漢室陵遲，海宇顛覆，樹功立業，正在此時。徐州殷富，戶口百萬，劉使君領此，不可辭也。”玄德曰：“此事決不敢應命。”

“The Prefect is a great sufferer,” said Chen Deng, “and cannot see to matters. You may not decline, Sir.” Said Xuande, “Yuan Shu belongs to a family of rulers and the highest offices of state were held four times in three generations. The whole empire respects him, why not invite him to this task?” “Because he is a rotting bone in a dark tomb; not worth talking about. This opportunity is a gift from Heaven and you will never cease to regret its loss,” said Kong. So spake Kong Rong, but still Liu Bei obstinately refused. Tao Qian besought him with tears. “I shall die if you leave me and there will be none to close my eyes.”

陳登曰：“陶府君多病，不能視事，明公勿辭。”玄德曰：“袁公路四世三公，海內所歸，近在壽春，何不以州讓之？”孔融曰：“袁公路冢中枯骨，何足掛齒！今日之事，天與不取，悔不可追。”玄德堅執不肯。陶謙泣下曰：“君若舍我而去，我死不瞑目矣！”

“Brother, you should accept the offer thus made,” said Guan Yu. “Why so much fuss?” said Zhang Fei. “We have not taken the place; it is he who wishes to give it you.” “You all persuade me to do what is wrong,” said Liu Bei. Thrice did Tao entreat Liu Bei and thrice was he refused. Then he said, “As he is set in his determination perhaps he will consent to encamp at Xiaopei. It is only a little town, but thence he can keep watch and ward over this city.”

雲長曰：“既承陶公相讓，兄且權領州事。”張飛曰：“又不是我強要他的州郡；他好意相讓，何必苦苦推辭！”玄德曰：“汝等欲陷我於不義耶？”陶謙推讓再三，玄德只是不受。陶謙曰：“如玄德必不肯從，此間近邑，名曰小沛，足可屯軍，請玄德暫駐軍此邑，以保徐州。

They all with one voice prayed Liu Bei to consent so he gave in. The feast of victory being now ended the time came to say farewell. When Zhao Yun took his leave Liu Bei held his hands alternately while dashing away the falling tears. Kong Rong and Tian Kai went home to their own place. When Liu Bei and his brothers took up their abode in Xiaopei, they first repaired the defences and then they put out proclamations in order to calm the inhabitants.

何如？”衆皆勸玄德留小沛，玄德從之。陶謙勞軍已畢，趙雲辭去，玄德執手揮淚而別。孔融、田楷亦各相別，引軍自回。玄德與關、張引本部軍來至小沛，修葺城垣，撫諭居民。

In the meantime Cao Cao had marched toward his own district. His cousin, Cao Ren, met him and told him Lü Bu was very strong and he had Chen Gong as adviser. Yanzhou was as good as lost, with the exception of three small districts which had been desperately defended. Cao Cao said, “I own that Lü Bu is a bold fighter but nothing more; he has no craft. So we need not fear him seriously.” Then he gave orders to make a strong camp till they could think out some victorious plan. Lü Bu, knowing of Cao Cao’s return, called two of his subordinate captains, Xue Lan and Li Feng, to him and assigned to them the task of holding Yanzhou, saying “I have long waited for opportunity to employ your skill: now I give you a legion and you are to hold the city while I go forth to attack Cao Cao.”

卻說曹操回軍，曹仁接着，言呂布勢大，更有陳宮爲輔，兗州、濮陽已失，其鄄城、東阿、范縣三處，賴荀彧、程昱二人設計相連，死守城郭。操曰：“吾料呂布有勇無謀，不足慮也。”教且安營下寨，再作商議。呂布知曹操回兵，已過滕縣，召副將薛蘭、李封曰：“吾欲用汝二人久矣。

They made no objection. But Chen Gong, the strategist, came in hastily saying, “You are going away; whither?” “I am going to camp my men at Puyang, that vantage point.” “You are making a mistake,” said Chen Gong. “The two you have chosen to defend this are unequal to the task. For this expedition remember that about one hundred and eighty li due south, on the road to Taishan, is a very advantageous position where you should place your best men in ambush.

汝可引軍一萬，堅守兗州。吾親自率兵，前去破曹。”二人應諾。陳宮急入見曰：“將軍棄兗州，欲何往乎？”布曰：“吾欲屯兵濮陽，以成鼎足之勢。”宮曰：“差矣。薛蘭必守兗州不住。——此去正南一百八十里，泰山路險，可伏精兵萬人在彼。

Cao Cao will hasten homeward by double marches when he hears what has happened and if you strike when half his men have gone past this point you may seize him.” Said Lü Bu, “I am going to occupy Puyang and see what develops. How can you guess?” So he left the two captains in command at Yanzhou and went away. Now when Cao Cao approached the dangerous part of the road near Taishan, Guo Jia warned him to take care as there was doubtless an ambush. But his master laughed, “We know all his dispositions. Do you think he has laid an ambush?

曹兵聞失兗州，必然倍道而進，待其過半，一擊可擒也。”布曰：“吾屯濮陽，別有良謀，汝豈知之！”遂不用陳宮之言，而用薛蘭守兗州而行。曹操兵行至泰山險路，郭嘉曰：“且不可進，恐此處有伏兵。”曹操笑曰：“呂布無謀之輩，故教薛蘭守兗州，自往濮陽，安得此處有埋伏耶？

I shall tell Cao Ren to besiege Yanzhou and I shall go to Puyang.” When Chen Gong heard of the enemy’s approach he spoke, saying “The enemy will be fatigued with long marches so attack quickly before they have time to recover.” Lü Bu replied, “I, a single horseman, am afraid of none. I go and come as I will. Think you I fear this Cao Cao? Let him settle his camp; I will take him after that.”

教曹仁領一軍圍兗州，吾進兵濮陽，速攻呂布。”陳宮聞曹兵至近，乃獻計曰：“今曹兵遠來疲睏，利在速戰，不可養成氣力。”布曰：“吾匹馬縱橫天下，何愁曹操！待其下寨，吾自擒之。”

Now Cao Cao neared Puyang and he made a camp. And soon after he led out his commanders and they arrayed their men in open and desert country. Cao Cao took up his station on horseback between the two standards, watching while his opponents arrived and formed up in a circular area. Lü Bu was in front, followed by eight of his captains, all strong men. Two were called Zhang Liao and Zang Ba; and there were six others. They had five legions.

卻說曹操兵近濮陽，下住寨腳。次日，引衆將出，陳兵於野。操立馬於門旗下，遙望呂布兵到。陣圓處，呂布當先出馬，兩邊排開八員健將：第一個雁門馬邑人，姓張，名遼，字文遠；第二個泰山華陰人，姓臧，名霸，字宣高。

The drums began their thunderous roll and Cao, pointing to his opponent, said, “You and I had no quarrel, why then did you invade my land?” “The Empire of Han is the possession of all; what is your special claim?” said Lü. So saying he ordered Zang Ba to ride forth and challenge. From Cao’s side the challenge was accepted by Yue Jin. The two steeds approached each other, two spears were lifted both together and they exchanged over thirty bouts with no advantage to either.

兩將又各引三員健將：郝萌、曹性、成廉，魏續、宋憲、侯成。布軍五萬，鼓聲大震。操指呂布而言曰：“吾與汝自來無仇，何得奪吾州郡？”布曰：“漢家城池，諸人有分，偏爾合得？”便叫臧霸出馬搦戰。曹軍內樂進出迎。兩馬相交，雙槍齊舉。

Then Xiahou Dun rode out to help his colleague and, in reply, out went Zhang Liao from Lü Bu’s side. And they four fought. Then fierce anger seized upon Lü Bu. Setting his halberd he urged his steed forward to where the fight was waging. Seeing him approach Xiahou and Yue both fled, but Lü Bu pressed on after them and Cao Cao’s army lost the day. Retiring a long way they made a new camp. Lü Bu called in and mustered his men.

戰到三十餘合，勝負不分。夏侯惇拍馬便出助戰，呂布陣上張遼截住廝殺。惱得呂布性起，挺戟驟馬，衝出陣來。夏侯惇、樂進皆走，呂布掩殺，曹軍大敗，退三四十里。布自收軍。

The day having gone against him Cao Cao called a council and Yu Jin said, “From the hill tops to-day I saw a camp of our enemies on the west of Puyang. They were but few men therein, and to-night after to-day’s victory, it will not be defended. Let us attack and if we can take the camp we shall strike fear into the heart of Lü Bu. This is our best plan.” Cao thought so too. He and six of his lieutenants and two legions left that night by a secret road for the camp.

曹操輸了一陣，回寨與諸將商議。于禁曰：“某今日上山觀望，濮陽之西，呂布有一寨，約無多軍。今夜彼將謂我軍敗走，必不準備，可引兵擊之；若得寨，布軍必懼：此爲上策。”操從其言，帶曹洪、李典、毛玠、呂虔、于禁、典韋六將，選馬步二萬人，連夜從小路進發。

In Lü Bu’s camp was rejoicing for that day’s victory when Chen Gong reminded him of the west camp and its importance, and said that it might be attacked, Lü Bu replied that the enemy would not dare approach after that day’s defeat. “Cao Cao is a very able commander,” replied Gong. “You must keep a good lookout for him lest he attack our weak spot.” So arrangements were made for defence.

卻說呂布於寨中勞軍。陳宮曰：“西寨是個要緊去處，倘或曹操襲之，奈何？”布曰：“他今日輸了一陣，如何敢來！”宮曰：“曹操是極能用兵之人，須防他攻我不備。”布乃撥高順並魏續、侯成引兵往守西寨。

At dusk Cao Cao reached the camp and began an immediate attack on all four sides. The defenders could not hold him off. They ran in all directions and the camp was captured. Near the fourth watch, when the party told off to help defend the camp reached it, Cao Cao sallied forth to meet them and met Gao Shun. Another battle then began and waged till dawn. About that time a rolling of drums was heard in the west and they told Cao that Lü Bu himself was at hand.

卻說曹操於黃昏時分，引軍至西寨，四面突入。寨兵不能抵擋，四散奔走，曹操奪了寨。將及四更，高順方引軍到，殺將入來。曹操自引軍馬來迎，正逢高順，三軍混戰、將及天明，正西鼓聲大震，人報呂布自引救軍來了。

Thereupon Cao Cao abandoned the attack and fled. They pursued him, Lü Bu taking the lead. Two of Cao’s lieutenants attacked the pursuers but could not check them. Cao went away north. But from behind some hills came out more of Lü Bu’s army and as they could not be beaten off Cao sought safety in the west. Here again his retreat was barred.

操棄寨而走。背後高順、魏續、侯成趕來；當頭呂布親自引軍來到。于禁、樂進雙戰呂布不住。操望北而行。山後一彪軍出：左有張遼，右有臧霸。操使呂虔、曹洪戰之，不利。操望西而走。忽又喊聲大震，一彪軍至：郝萌、曹性、成廉、宋憲四將攔住去路。

The fight became desperate. Cao Cao dashed at the enemy’s array. The din was terrible. Arrows fell like pelting rain upon them and they could make no headway. He was desperate and cried out in fear, “Who can save me?” Then from the crush dashed out Dian Wei with his double lance, crying “Fear not, my master.” He leapt from his steed, leaned his double lance against a wall and laid hold of a handful of darts. Turning to his followers he said, “When the ruffians are at ten paces, call out to me.”

衆將死戰，操當先衝陣。梆子響處，箭如驟雨射將來。操不能前進，無計可脫，大叫：“誰人救我！”馬軍隊裏，一將踊出，乃典韋也，手挺雙鐵戟，大叫：“主公勿憂！”飛身下馬，插住雙戟，取短戟十數枝，挾在手中，顧從人曰：“賊來十步乃呼我！”

Then he set off with mighty strides, plunging forward careless of the flying arrows. Lü Bu’s horsemen followed and when they got near the followers shouted, “Ten paces!” “Five, then call!” shouted back Dian Wei, and went on. Presently, “Five paces!” Then Dian Wei spun round and flung the darts. With every fling a man fell from the saddle and never a dart missed. Having thus slain half a score the remainder fled and Dian quickly remounted his steed, set his twin lance and rushed again into the fight with a vigour that none could withstand.

遂放開腳步，冒箭前行。布軍數十騎追至。從人大叫曰：“十步矣！”韋曰：“五步乃呼我！”從人又曰：“五步矣！”韋乃飛戟刺之，一戟一人墜馬，並無虛發，立殺十數人。衆皆奔走。韋復飛身上馬，挺一雙大鐵戟，衝殺入去。郝、曹、成、宋四將不能抵擋，各自逃去。

One by one his opponents yielded and he was able to lead Cao Cao safely out of the press of battle. Cao and his captains went to their camp. But as evening fell the noise of pursuit fell on their ears and soon appeared Lü Bu himself. “Cao, you rebel, do not flee!” shouted he as he approached with his halberd ready for a thrust. All stopped and looked in each others’ faces: the men were weary, their steeds spent. Fear smote them and they looked around for some place of refuge.

典韋殺散敵軍，救出曹操。衆將隨後也到，尋路歸寨。看看天色傍晚，背後喊聲起處，呂布驟馬提戟趕來，大叫：“操賊休走！”此時人困馬乏，大家面面相覷，各欲逃生。

You may lead your lord safely out of the press,
But what if the enemy follow? We cannot say here what Cao Cao’s fate was, but the next chapter will relate.

正是：雖能暫把重圍脫，只怕難當勁敵追。
不知曹操性命如何，且聽下文分解。