Romance, Chapter 60

Chapter 60. Zhang Song Turns the Tables on Yang Xiu: Occupation of Shu Discussed

The man who proposed the plan to Liu Zhang was Zhang Song, styled Yongnian, who held the office of Biejia, or Supernumerary Charioteer, of Yizhou. His appearance was grotesque. He had a broad forehead, protuberant at the temples like a countryman’s hoe, and a pointed head. His nose was flat and his teeth protruded. He was a dwarf in stature, not five feet tall, but had a deep voice like a great bell. Liu Zhang asked him, “What proposal have you to offer that may avert the danger from Zhang Lu?” “I have heard that Cao Cao of Xudu has made a clean sweep of the Central Plains. Lü Bu went first and both the Yuans followed, all exterminated. Lately he has destroyed Ma Chao. In short he is the one man against whom no one can stand.

卻說那進計於劉璋者，乃益州別駕，姓張，名松，字永年。其人生得額钁頭尖，鼻偃齒露，身短不滿五尺，言語有若銅鐘。劉璋問曰：“別駕有何高見，可解張魯之危？”松曰：“某聞許都曹操，掃蕩中原，呂布、二袁皆爲所滅，近又破馬超，天下無敵矣。

Therefore, my lord, prepare me worthy gifts and I will go myself to Xudu and persuade Cao Cao to march an army against Hanzhong to deal with Zhang Lu. Then Zhang Lu will be too busy with his enemy to dare to cast his eyes upon Shu again.” This met Liu Zhang’s views and so he prepared gold and pearls and rich stuffs, worthy presents for the man of power. And when these were ready he appointed Zhang Song his emissary. Zhang Song secretly drew a map of the geography of Xichuan and hid it about him. Then he started for Xudu with a few horsemen as escort. This was soon reported in Jingzhou, and Kongming sent a man to Xudu to find out what was happening.

主公可備進獻之物，松親往許都，說曹操興兵取漢中，以圖張魯。則魯拒敵不暇，何敢復窺蜀中耶？”劉璋大喜，收拾金珠錦綺，爲進獻之物，遣張松爲使。松乃暗畫西川地理圖本藏之，帶從人數騎，取路赴許都。早有人報入荊州。孔明便使人入許都打探消息。

Zhang Song arrived in Xudu, and, after he had established himself in his lodging, he made daily visits to the Minister’s Palace to try to obtain an interview. But since his return from destroying Ma Chao, Cao Cao had been filled with insufferable pride, and he did nothing but give banquets. He seldom appeared unless there was business, and the affairs of state were all discussed in the Minister’s Palace. Zhang Song waited three days before he could even send in his name, and the attendants nearest the Minister demanded bribes before they would lead him in. Cao Cao was seated in the high place, and after his visitor had finished his salutations, he said, “Your Master Liu Zhang has sent no tribute for several years; why?”

卻說張松到了許都館驛中住定，每日去相府伺候，求見曹操。原來曹操自破馬超回，傲睨得志，每日飲宴，無事少出，國政皆在相府商議。張松候了三日，方得通姓名。左右近侍先要賄賂，卻纔引入。操坐於堂上，松拜畢，操問曰：“汝主劉璋連年不進貢，何也？”

“Because the roads are dangerous and thieves and robbers infest them. Intercourse is restricted.” Cao interrupted in a loud harsh voice, “What thieves and robbers are there when I have cleansed the country?” “How can you say the land is tranquil when one sees Sun Quan in the south, Zhang Lu in the north, Liu Bei in the west and the least of them with over a hundred thousand armoured men?” The mean appearance of the emissary had prejudiced Cao Cao from the outset, and when he heard these blunt words he suddenly shook out his sleeves, rose and went into the inner hall.

松曰：“爲路途艱難，賊寇竊發，不能通進。”操叱曰：“吾掃清中原，有何盜賊？”松曰：“南有孫權，北有張魯，西有劉備，至少者亦帶甲十餘萬，豈得爲太平耶？”操先見張松人物猥瑣，五分不喜；又聞語言衝撞，遂拂袖而起，轉入後堂。

Those in attendance were annoyed with Zhang Song and said, “How can you behave so rudely when you come on a mission? Your whole attitude was blunt and discourteous. Happily for you our lord remembered you had come from afar and did not take open notice of your fault. The best thing for you is to go home again as quickly as you can.” But Zhang Song smiled. “We have no plausible flatterers and glib talkers in our western country,” said he. At this, one from below the steps called out, “So you call us plausible and glib then; and you have none such in your country, eh?”

左右責松曰：“汝爲使命，何不知禮，一味衝撞？幸得丞相看汝遠來之面，不見罪責。汝可急急回去！”松笑曰：“吾川中無諂佞之人也。”忽然階下一人大喝曰：“汝川中不會諂佞，吾中原豈有諂佞者乎？”

Zhang Song looked around and saw the speaker was a man with thin delicate eyebrows crossing narrow eyes set in a pale spiritual face. He asked his name. It was Yang Xiu, styled Dezu, a son of the Grand Commandant Yang Biao, then Recorder in charge of the treasury in the Minister’s household. He was deeply read and had the reputation of being a clever controversialist, as Zhang Song knew. So on one side was a desire to confound and on the other overweening pride in his own ability, with contempt for other scholars. Perceiving the ridicule in Zhang Song’s speech Yang Xiu invited him to go to the library where they could talk more freely. There, after they had got settled in their respective places, Yang Xiu began to talk about the west country. “Your roads are precipitous and wearisome,” said Yang.

松觀其人，單眉細眼，貌白神清。問其姓名，乃太尉楊彪之子楊脩，字德祖，現爲丞相門下掌庫主簿。此人博學能言，智識過人。松知修是個舌辯之士，有心難之。修亦自恃其才，小覷天下之士。當時見張松言語譏諷，遂邀出外面書院中，分賓主而坐，謂松曰：“蜀道崎嶇，遠來勞苦。”

“But at our lord’s command we travel, even through fire and water; we never decline,” replied Zhang. “What sort of a country is this Shu?” “Shu is a name for the group of districts known of old as Yizhou. Its roads have the perils of the Jin River, and its land joins the grandeur of Jiange. The circuit is over two hundred marches and the area thirty thousand square li. The population is dense, villages being so close that the crowing of cocks in one waken the people in the next, and the dogs barking in this excite the curs in that. The soil is rich and well cultivated and droughts or famines are equally unknown. Prosperity is general and the music of pipes and strings can always be heard.

松曰：“奉主之命，雖赴湯蹈火，弗敢辭也。”修問：“蜀中風土何如？”松曰：“蜀爲西郡，古號益州。路有錦江之險，地連劍閣之雄。回還二百八程，縱橫三萬餘里。雞鳴犬吠相聞，市井閭閻不斷。田肥地茂，歲無水旱之憂；國富民豐，時有管絃之樂。

The produce of the fields is piled mountain high. There is no place its equal.” “But what of the people?” “Our administrators are talented as Xiangru (Sima Xiangru): our soldiers able as Fubo (Ma Yuan): our physicians are expert as Zhongjing; our diviners are profound as Junping (Yan Zun). Our schools of philosophy and our culture stand forth as models and we have more remarkable men than I can enumerate. How should I ever finish the tale of them?” “And how many such as you, Sir, do you think there are at the orders of your Governor?”

所產之物，阜如山積。天下莫可及也！”修又問曰：“蜀中人物如何？”松曰：“文有相如之賦，武有伏波之才；醫有仲景之能，卜有君平之隱。九流三教，出乎其類，拔乎其萃者，不可勝記，豈能盡數！”修又問曰：“方今劉季玉手下，如公者還有幾人？”

“Our officers are all geniuses; wise, bold, loyal, righteous and magnanimous. As for poor simpletons like me, they are counted by hundreds; there are cartloads of them; bushels of them. No one could count them.” “What office may you hold then?” Zhang Song replied, “Mine can hardly be called an office. I am a Supernumerary Charioteer. But, Sir, what State affairs may you control?” “I am an Accountant in the Palace of the Minister,” replied Yang. “They say that members of your family held office for many generations and I do not understand why you are not in court service actually assisting the Emperor, instead of filling the post of a mere clerk in a private Palace.”

松曰：“文武全才，智勇足備，忠義慷慨之士，動以百數。如松不才之輩，車載斗量，不可勝記。”修曰：“公近居何職？”松曰：“濫充別駕之任，甚不稱職。敢問公爲朝廷何官？”修曰：“現爲丞相府主簿。”松曰：“久聞公世代簪纓，何不立於廟堂，輔佐天子，乃區區作相府門下一吏乎？”

Yang Xiu’s face suffused with shame at this rebuke, but he mastered himself and replied, “Though I am among the minor officials, yet my duties are of great importance and I am gaining experience under the Prime Minister’s guidance. I hold the office for the sake of the training.” Zhang Song smiled, “If what I have heard is true, Cao Cao’s learning throws no gleaming light on the way of Confucius or Mencius, nor does his military skill illumine the art of Sun or Wu. He seems to understand the doctrine of brute force and holding on to what advantages he can seize, but I see not how he can give you any valuable training or enlighten your understanding.”

楊脩聞言，滿面羞慚，強顏而答曰：“某雖居下寮，丞相委以軍政錢糧之重，早晚多蒙丞相教誨，極有開發，故就此職耳。”松笑曰：“松聞曹丞相文不明孔、孟之道，武不達孫、吳之機，專務強霸而居大位，安能有所教誨，以開發明公耶？”

“Ah, Sir; that comes of dwelling in out-of-the-way parts. How could you know of the magnificent talents of the great Minister? But I will show you something.” He called up an attendant and bade him bring a book from a certain case. He showed this to his guest, who read the title “The New Book of Mengde.” Then he opened it and read it through from the beginning, the whole thirteen chapters. They all dealt with the art of war. “What do you take this to be?” asked Zhang Song, when he had finished. “This is the great Minister’s discussion of the art of ancient and modern war composed on the model of Sun’s treatise.

修曰：“公居邊隅，安知丞相大才乎？吾試令公觀之。”呼左右於篋中取書一卷，以示張松。松觀其題曰《孟德新書》。從頭至尾，看了一遍，共一十三篇，皆用兵之要法。松看畢，問曰：“公以此爲何書耶？”修曰：“此是丞相酌古準今，仿《孫子》十三篇而作。

You may be disdainful of the Minister’s talents but will this not go down to posterity?” “This book! Every child in Shu knows this by heart. What do you mean by calling it a new book? It was written by some obscure person of the time of the Warring States and Cao Cao has plagiarised it. But he has deceived no one but you, Sir.” “But what is the use of your sarcastic insult in saying that your school children know the book by rote? It has never been given to the world although copies have been made. It belongs to his private library.”

公欺丞相無才，此堪以傳後世否？”松大笑曰：“此書吾蜀中三尺小童，亦能闇誦，何爲‘新書’？此是戰國時無名氏所作，曹丞相盜竊以爲己能，止好瞞足下耳！”修曰：“丞相祕藏之書，雖已成帙，未傳於世。公言蜀中小兒闇誦如流，何相欺乎？”

“Do you disbelieve me? Why, I know it and could repeat it.” Then he repeated the whole book, word for word, from beginning to end. “You remember it like this after only one reading! Really you are marvellous.”

松曰：“公如不信，吾試誦之。”遂將《孟德新書》，從頭至尾，朗誦一遍，並無一字差錯。修大驚曰：“公過目不忘，真天下奇才也！”

He boasted not a handsome face,
Nor was his body blessed with grace.
His words streamed like a waterfall,
He read a book and knew it all.
Shu’s glories could he well rehearse,
His lore embraced the universe.
Or text or note of scholiast
Once read, his memory held fast.

後人有詩讚曰：“古怪形容異，清高體貌疏。
語傾三峽水，目視十行書。
膽量魁西蜀，文章貫太虛。
百家並諸子，一覽更無餘。
”

At leave-taking Yang Xiu said, “Remain a while in your lodgings till I can petition our Minister to give you another interview.” Zhang Song thanked him and left. By and bye Yang Xiu went to see Cao Cao on the matter of receiving the emissary from the west and said, “Sir, why did you formerly treat Zhang Song so off-hand.” “He spoke very rudely; that is why.” “But you bore with Mi Heng; why not with this man?” “Mi Heng’s reputation for scholarship stood highest of all and I could not bear to put him to death.

當下張松欲辭回。修曰：“公且暫居館舍，容某再稟丞相，令公面君。”松謝而退。修入見操曰：“適來丞相何慢張松乎？”操曰：“言語不遜，吾故慢之。”修曰：“丞相尚容一禰衡，何不納張松？”操曰：“禰衡文章，播於當今，吾故不忍殺之。

But what ability has this Zhang?” “To say nothing about his speech being like the River of Heaven, nothing daunts his talent for dialectic. I happened to show him your new treatise; he read it over once and could repeat it. From this it is evident he is cultured and has a prodigious memory. There are few like him in the world. But he said the book was the work of an obscure person of a few hundred years back and every school boy in his country knew it.” “It only shows that the ancients and I are in secret sympathy,” replied Cao.

松有何能？”修曰：“且無論其口似懸河，辯才無礙。適修以丞相所撰《孟德新書》示之，彼觀一遍，即能闇誦，如此博聞強記，世所罕有。松言此書乃戰國時無名氏所作，蜀中小兒，皆能熟記。”操曰：“莫非古人與我暗合否？”

However, he ordered the book to be torn up and burned. “Then may I bring him to see you, Sir, that he may see the glory of our court.” Cao Cao grudgingly consented, saying, “I am reviewing troops to-morrow on the western parade-ground. You may bring him there and let him see what my army looks like. He will be able to talk about it when he goes home. When I have dealt with the south I shall take the west in hand.”

令扯碎其書燒之。修曰：“此人可使面君，教見天朝氣象。”操曰：“來日我於西教場點軍，汝可先引他來，使見我軍容之盛，教他回去傳說：吾即日下了江南，便來收川。”修領命。

Hence the very next day Yang Xiu took Zhang Song over to the west parade ground, where a review of the Tiger Guard was to be held. There were five legions of them, and when drawn up in order, they made a very brave show with their gleaming helmets and bright new uniforms. Their drums rolled to shake the heavens and their weapons glittered in the sun. Their discipline and order were perfect; their gay banners fluttered in the breeze. They looked ready to fly even, so alert and smart were they. Zhang Song glanced at them contemptuously. After a long time Cao Cao called up Zhang Song and, pointing to his army, said, “Have you ever seen such fine bold fellows in your country?”

至次日，與張松同至西教場。操點虎衛雄兵五萬，佈於教場中。果然盔甲鮮明，衣袍燦爛；金鼓震天，戈矛耀日；四方八面，各分隊伍；旌旗揚彩，人馬騰空。松斜目視之。良久，操喚松指而示曰：“汝川中曾見此英雄人物否？”

“We never see this military parade in Shu; we govern men by righteousness.” Cao Cao changed colour and looked hard at the bold speaker, who gazed back at him without the least sign of fear. Yang Xiu shot a quick glance at him, but Cao went on, “I regard the rat-class of the world [There is a pun here; the characters for “rat” and “Shu” are read the same] as of no more importance than so many weeds, and for my army to reach a place is to overcome it, to give battle is to conquer, to besiege is to take. Those who are with me, live; but those who oppose me, die. Do you understand?” “O Minister, I know well that when you march out your army you always conquer.

松曰：“吾蜀中不曾見此兵革，但以仁義治人。”操變色視之。松全無懼意。楊脩頻以目視松。操謂松曰：“吾視天下鼠輩猶草芥耳。大軍到處，戰無不勝，攻無不取，順吾者生，逆吾者死。汝知之乎？”松曰：“丞相驅兵到處，戰必勝，攻必取，松亦素知。

I knew it when you attacked Lü Bu at Puyang; and when you fought Zhang Xiu at Wancheng; and when you met Zhou Yu at Red Cliffs; and when you met Guan Yu at Huarong; and on that day when you cut off your beard and threw away your robe at Tong Pass; and when you hid in a boat to escape the arrows on the Wei River. On all these occasions no one could stand against you.” It made Cao Cao very angry to be thus twitted with his misfortunes and he said, “You stuck-up pedant! How dare you thus bring up all my failures?” He called to his attendants to eject the bold disputant and put him to death. Yang Xiu ventured to argue with him saying, “You may behead him, but he came from Shu bearing tribute and his death would have a very evil effect on all distant peoples.”

昔日濮陽攻呂布之時，宛城戰張繡之日；赤壁遇周郎，華容逢關羽；割須棄袍於潼關，奪船避箭於渭水：此皆無敵於天下也！”操大怒曰：“豎儒怎敢揭吾短處！”喝令左右推出斬之。楊脩諫曰：“松雖可斬，奈從蜀道而來入貢，若斬之，恐失遠人之意。”

But Cao Cao was too angry to be reasonable and persisted. However, Xun Yu also remonstrated and Zhang Song was not put to death. But he was beaten and ejected. He returned to his lodging and left the city that night to go home to Xichuan. Thought he, “I meant to offer the districts of Xichuan to Cao Cao, and who would have thought he would treat men so insolently! Before I came I boasted greatly in the presence of Liu Zhang; now I am returning empty handed and in disgrace, and shall surely be laughed at by the people of Shu. I have long heard that the fame of Liu Xuande of Jingzhou for kindness and justice has spread far and wide; I had better go home by that road.

操怒氣未息。荀彧亦諫。操方免其死，令亂棒打出。松歸館舍，連夜出城，收拾回川。松自思曰：“吾本欲獻西川州郡與曹操，誰想如此慢人！我來時於劉璋之前，開了大口；今日怏怏空回。須被蜀中人所笑。吾聞荊州劉玄德仁義遠播久矣，不如徑由那條路回。

I will see what manner of man he is, and then I can decide what to do.” So with his little escort and following he made for Jingzhou. He had reached the boundaries of Yingzhou when he met a troop of some five hundred horsemen, at the head of whom rode a captain in simple undress, who pulled up, saying, “Surely you are the Charioteer Zhang.” “I am he,” said Zhang Song. The captain quickly dismounted and humbly said, “I have expected you these many days. I am Zhao Yun.”

試看此人如何，我自有主見。”於是乘馬引僕從望荊州界上而來，前至郢州界口，忽見一隊軍馬，約有五百餘騎，爲首一員大將，輕妝軟扮，勒馬前問曰：“來者莫非張別駕乎？”松曰：“然也。”那將慌忙下馬，聲喏曰：“趙雲等候多時。”

Zhang Song dismounted and returned the salutation saying, “Then you are no other than Zhao Zilong, of Changshan.” “No other,” was the reply. “And my lord Liu Xuande bade me await you here and offer you refreshment after your long and toilsome journey.” At this some soldiers brought forward wine and food which they offered kneeling, and Zhao Yun respectfully presented it. Zhang Song thought to himself, “People say Liu Xuande is liberal and kind and loves his guests, and now I see it is true.” After a few cups of wine with Zhao Yun he mounted and they rode on together.

松下馬答禮曰：“莫非常山趙子龍乎？”雲曰：“然也，某奉主公劉玄德之命，爲大夫遠涉路途，鞍馬驅馳，特命趙雲聊奉酒食。”言罷，軍士跪奉酒食，雲敬進之。松自思曰：“人言劉玄德寬仁愛客，今果如此。”遂與趙雲飲了數杯，上馬同行。

They came to the borders of Jingzhou as the day grew late, and went on to the guest-house. Here they found a hundred and more men who received the visitor with the beating of drums and every sign of respect. And the officer in command, bowing low, said, “My brother sent me to meet you after your long and dusty journey and prepare the guest house for your reception. My name is Guan.” So Zhang Song dismounted and entered the rest-house with Yunchang and Zhao Yun, where hosts and guest exchanged formal salutations and took their seats. In a short time refreshments were served and both men were most diligent in their attention to the traveller. The banquet was prolonged till late in the night, and then they retired to rest.

來到荊州界首，是日天晚，前到館驛，見驛門外百餘人侍立，擊鼓相接。一將於馬前施禮曰：“奉兄長將令，爲大夫遠涉風塵，令關某灑掃驛庭，以待歇宿。”松下馬，與雲長、趙雲同入館舍。講禮敘坐。須臾，排上酒筵，二人殷勤相勸。飲至更闌，方始罷席，宿了一宵。

Next morning, after the early meal, they mounted and continued their journey. They had gone scarcely a few li when they met a party: it was Xuande himself, with Sleeping Dragon and Young Phoenix, come in person to meet him. Seeing Zhang Song from afar, they had already dismounted and were waiting by the roadside. Zhang Song also hastily dismounted to meet them. “Your exalted name has been long known to me,” said Xuande, “it has reverberated through my ears. My one regret is that cloudy hills and long distances have hitherto prevented me from enjoying the advantage of your instruction. Hearing that you were passing through, I have come especially to meet you.

次日早膳畢，上馬行不到三五里，只見一簇人馬到。乃是玄德引着伏龍、鳳雛，親自來接。遙見張松，早先下馬等候。松亦慌忙下馬相見。玄德曰：“久聞大夫高名，如雷貫耳。恨雲山遙遠，不得聽教。今聞回都，專此相接。

If you would be willing to notice me and condescend to rest for a time in my desolate city, thus allowing me to satisfy my long disappointed desire to see you, I should indeed hold myself fortunate.” Zhang Song was greatly pleased and remounted. They rode bridle to bridle into the city. When they reached the residence again they exchanged profound salutations and compliments before they took their various places as host and guest. And then a banquet was served. But all throughout Xuande refrained from saying a word about Shu; he only chatted on general and common things. The visitor noted this steady avoidance and resolved to probe his host’s thoughts. “How many districts are there in Jingzhou, where you are now, O Imperial Uncle?”

倘蒙不棄，到荒州暫歇片時，以敘渴仰之思，實爲萬幸！”松大喜，遂上馬並轡入城。至府堂上各各敘禮，分賓主依次而坐，設宴款待。飲酒間，玄德只說閒話，並不提起西川之事。松以言挑之曰：“今皇叔守荊州，還有幾郡？”

Kongming replied, “Jingzhou is only ours temporarily; we have borrowed it from Wu. They are always sending messengers to demand its return. However, now that our lord has married the daughter his position is more secure. But it is still temporary.” “Wu is large,” said Zhang Song, “yet their six districts and their eighty one departments do not satisfy them. The people are strong and the land is fruitful.” Said Pang Tong, “Our lord is an Imperial Uncle of the Han, and yet he cannot hold a single district of his own; while those others, who are but the vermin of Han, seize land by force wherever they are strong enough. Only the wise feel the injustice of it.”

孔明答曰：“荊州乃暫借東吳的，每每使人取討。今我主因是東吳女婿，故權且在此安身。”松曰：“東吳據六郡八十一州，民強國富，猶且不知足耶？”龐統曰：“吾主漢朝皇叔，反不能佔據州郡；其他皆漢之蟊賊，卻都恃強侵佔地土；惟智者不平焉。”

“Noble Sirs, pray say no more: what virtue have I that I should expect anything from the future?” said Liu Bei. “Not so, indeed,” said Zhang Song. “Illustrious Sir, you are of the lineage of Han; your noble character is widely known. Not to speak of occupying a district, even were you to take the place of the rightful line and sit on the Emperor’s throne, it would not be beyond your due.” Xuande deprecated such a suggestion, “Sir, you go too far; this really is too much.”

玄德曰：“二公休言。吾有何德，敢多望乎？”松曰：“不然。明公乃漢室宗親，仁義充塞乎四海。休道佔據州郡，便代正統而居帝位，亦非分外。”玄德拱手謝曰：“公言太過，備何敢當！”

The next three days were spent in banquets and wine-parties, but all the time no mention was made of the western province. And when, at the end of that time, Zhang Song took leave, his host was at the ten li rest-house to bid him farewell and offer refreshment. When the moment came for the parting Liu Bei raised his wine-cup and said, “I am sincerely grateful that you deigned to come here. You have prolonged your visit to three days, but now the moment of parting has come. Who knows when I may have the privilege of receiving your instructions again?” As he said this the tears flowed. Zhang Song thought to himself, “Xuande is so liberal and kind, and so loves men of worth; how can I leave him?

自此一連留張松飲宴三日，並不提起川中之事。松辭去，玄德於十里長亭設宴送行。玄德舉酒酌松曰：“甚荷大夫不外，留敘三日；今日相別，不知何時再得聽教。”言罷，潸然淚下。張松自思：“玄德如此寬仁愛士，安可舍之？

I had better persuade him to take Xichuan.” So he said, “I have thought that I, too, would come to you one day, but so far I have found no way. I see Sun Quan on the east, always ready to pounce; I see Cao Cao on the north, greedy to swallow. So this is not a wholly desirable place for you to remain in.” “I know this but too well,” said Liu Bei, “but I have no secure place to go to.” “Yizhou is well protected, has much fertile soil, is populous and well governed. Its scholars are attracted by your virtue.

不如說之，令取西川。”乃言曰：“松亦思朝暮趨侍，恨未有便耳。松觀荊州：東有孫權，常懷虎踞；北有曹操，每欲鯨吞。亦非可久戀之地也。”玄德曰：“故知如此，但未有安跡之所。”松曰：“益州險塞，沃野千里，民殷國富；智能之士，久慕皇叔之德。

If you raised the forces of Jingxiang and marched straight westward, you could build up a great dominion and restore the House of Han.” “But how dare I attempt this? The ruler is also of the Imperial House. The whole province is devoted to him for his good deeds, and no other man could attain such a hold.” “I am no traitor,” said Zhang Song, “but in your presence I feel constrained to be perfectly open and plain. Liu, the prefect of Yizhou, is naturally weak and can neither use the wise nor employ the capable. Then again Zhang Lu threatens the north. People are distracted and would gladly welcome an appreciative ruler.

若起荊襄之衆，長驅西指，霸業可成，漢室可興矣。”玄德曰：“備安敢當此？劉益州亦帝室宗親，恩澤布蜀中久矣。他人豈可得而動搖乎？”松曰：“某非賣主求榮；今遇明公，不敢不披瀝肝膽：劉季玉雖有益州之地，稟性闇弱，不能任賢用能；加之張魯在北，時思侵犯；人心離散，思得明主。

The journey I have just made was to propose to support Cao Cao and place the province under him, but I found him rebellious and set on evil, proud and arrogant. So I have turned aside to you. If you will take Xichuan, you will have a base from which to deal with Hanzhong when you will, and the whole country beside. You will continue the rightful line and your name will live in history. Would not that be real fame? If then you think of taking our country I am willing to do what little I can as an ally within. But do you contemplate such a step?”

松此一行，專欲納款於操；何期逆賊恣逞奸雄，傲賢慢士，故特來見明公。明公先取西川爲基，然後北圖漢中，收取中原，匡正天朝，名垂青史，功莫大焉。明公果有取西川之意，松願施犬馬之勞，以爲內應。未知鈞意若何？”

“I am deeply grateful that you think so well of me. But the Prefect being a member of the family, I should lay myself open to general execration were I to attack him.” “When a hero finds himself in the world, his duty is to work out his destiny, to exert himself and perform his task as best as he can, to press forward among the foremost. At the moment the position is that, if you fail to seize this opportunity, some other will take possession and you will regret when too late.” “And I have heard much of the difficult nature of the country, its many high mountains and numerous streams, and its narrow roads. How could such a country be invaded?”

玄德曰：“深感君之厚意。奈劉季玉與備同宗，若攻之，恐天下人唾罵。”松曰：“大丈夫處世，當努力建功立業，著鞭在先。今若不取，爲他人所取，悔之晚矣。”玄德曰：“備聞蜀道崎嶇，千山萬水，車不能方軌，馬不能聯轡；雖欲取之，用何良策？”

Then Zhang Song drew the map from his sleeve. “I am so deeply affected by your virtue that I offer you this map of the country, whereby its roads and rivers may be known.” Xuande unrolled the map; it was covered with notes, on the lie of the land, lengths and widths, and such matters. Strategical points on rivers and hills were shown, and store-houses and granaries and treasuries. Everything was plainly stated. Zhang Song went on, “Sir, you should lay your plans promptly. I have two trusted friends, Fa Zheng and Meng Da.

松於袖中取出一圖，遞與玄德曰：“深感明公盛德，敢獻此圖。但看此圖，便知蜀中道路矣。”玄德略展視之，上面盡寫着地理行程，遠近闊狹，山川險要，府庫錢糧，一一俱載明白。松曰：“明公可速圖之。松有心腹契友二人：法正、孟達。

They will certainly help you. And when they come to Jingzhou, you may be perfectly frank with them.” Xuande thanked him with joined hands. Said he, “As the blue mountains grow not old and the green waters always remain, so shall I never forget. And when I shall have accomplished my task you shall have no mean reward.” “I look for no reward. Having met with an enlightened lord I felt compelled to unbosom myself to him.” Then Zhang Song took his leave, and Kongming bade Guan Yu and others escort him for some tens of li. On his return to Yizhou, Zhang Song went first to see his friend Fa Zheng.

此二人必能相助。如二人到荊州時，可以心事共議。”玄德拱手謝曰：“青山不老，綠水長存。他日事成，必當厚報。”松曰：“松遇明主，不得不盡情相告，豈敢望報乎？”說罷作別。孔明命雲長等護送數十里方回。張松回益州，先見友人法正。

Fa Zheng, styled Xiaozhi, was of Mei in Youfufeng, and was the son of the worthy scholar Fa Zhen. Zhang Song told him all about Cao Cao’s arrogance and haughtiness toward men of parts. “As for the man himself,” said he, “he is a man to grieve with but not a man to rejoice with. I have promised Yizhou to Liu Bei, the Imperial Uncle, and I want your especial advice and assistance.” “I think Liu Zhang incapable,” said Fa Zheng, “and I have felt drawn to Liu Bei for some time past. So we are in sympathy here.” Shortly after Meng Da arrived.

正字孝直，右扶風郿人也，賢士法真之子。松見正，備說曹操輕賢傲士，只可同憂，不可同樂。吾已將益州許劉皇叔矣。專欲與兄共議。法正曰：“吾料劉璋無能，已有心見劉皇叔久矣。此心相同，又何疑焉？”少頃，孟達至。

Meng Da, styled Ziqing, was a fellow townsman of Fa Zheng. When Meng Da entered the room and saw the other two in earnest and secret conversation, he said, “I know what you two are about; you are scheming to hand over Yizhou to somebody.” “It is really so; you have guessed right,” said Zhang Song. “But to whom ought it to go?” “There is but one; Liu Bei,” said Meng Da. All three clapped their hands and laughed. Then said Fa Zheng to Zhang Song, “You will see our lord to-morrow; what about that?” “I shall recommend that you two be sent to Jingzhou on a mission.” The two agreed.

達字子慶，與法正同鄉。達入，見正與松密語。達曰：“吾已知二公之意。將欲獻益州耶？”松曰：“是欲如此。兄試猜之，合獻與誰？”達曰：“非劉玄德不可。”三人撫掌大笑。法正謂松曰：“兄明日見劉璋，當若何？”松曰：“吾薦二公爲使，可往荊州。”二人應允。

Next day Zhang Song saw Liu Zhang, who asked how his mission had fared. Zhang Song said, “Cao Cao is a rebel who desires to get the whole country into his hands. I need hardly tell you that. But he also hankers after this district.” “Then what will become of us?” said Liu Zhang. “I have a plan to check both our enemies. Liu, the Imperial Uncle, now in Jingzhou, is of the same clan as you, my lord; he is kindly and generous and has the bearing of a true elder.

次日，張松見劉璋。璋問：“幹事若何？”松曰：“操乃漢賊，欲篡天下，不可爲言。彼已有取川之心。”璋曰：“似此如之奈何？”松曰：“松有一謀，使張魯、曹操必不敢輕犯西川。”璋曰：“何計？”松曰：“荊州劉皇叔，與主公同宗，仁慈寬厚，有長者風。

Since the great slaughter at Red Cliffs, Cao Cao’s gall bursts at the very mention of him; how much more Zhang Lu! Why not send an envoy to make friends with him, and so gain his support from without? Then you can withstand both Cao Cao and Zhang Lu.” “I have been thinking thus for a long-time; can you recommend a suitable emissary?” “The only ones are Fa Zheng and Meng Da.” These two were summoned and, meanwhile, a letter was prepared. Fa Zheng was to proceed as emissary to open up friendly relations and Meng Da would follow in due course with five thousand picked troops to welcome Liu Bei into the west country.

赤壁鏖兵之後，操聞之而膽裂，何況張魯乎？主公何不遣使結好，使爲外援，可以拒曹操、張魯矣。”璋曰：“吾亦有此心久矣。誰可爲使？”松曰：“非法正、孟達，不可往也。”璋即召二人入，修書一封，令法正爲使，先通情好；次遣孟達領精兵五千，迎玄德入川爲援。

While still discussing the details of the policy, a person forced his way in, his face all running with sweat, and cried out, “My lord, if you listen to Zhang Song, your forty-one districts already belong to another!” Zhang Song turned a startled look on the intruder, who was Huang Quan, styled Gongheng, of Langzhong in Baxi, an accountant in the Prefect’s Palace. The Prefect said, “Why do you use such language? Xuande is of my family and so I am seeking his support.”

正商議間，一人自外突入，汗流滿面，大叫曰：“主公若聽張松之言，則四十一州郡，已屬他人矣！”松大驚；視其人，乃西閬中巴人，姓黃，名權，字公衡，現爲劉璋府下主簿。璋問曰：“玄德與我同宗，吾故結之爲援；汝何出此言？”

Said Huang Quan, “I know all about him; he is liberal-minded to gain people to his side and his softness can overcome the hardest. He is bolder than any other. He gains men’s hearts from afar off and those near him look up to him. He also has the wisdom and plans of Zhuge Liang and Pang Tong, and Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, Zhao Yun, Huang Zhong and Wei Yan as his wings. But if you call him here as a soldier, think you that he will be content to remain in a lowly condition? And if you treat him as an honoured guest, can a State stand two rulers? Hear me, my lord, and you stand secure as Mount Tai; be deaf to my words and your position is as precarious as a pile of eggs.

權曰：“某素知劉備寬以待人，柔能克剛，英雄莫敵；遠得人心，近得民望；兼有諸葛亮、龐統之智謀，關、張、趙雲、黃忠、魏延爲羽翼。若召到蜀中，以部曲待之，劉備安肯伏低做小？若以客禮待之，又一國不容二主。今聽臣言，則西蜀有泰山之安；不聽臣言，主公有累卵之危矣。

This Zhang Song has lately come home through Jingzhou where he has certainly been plotting with Liu Bei. First slay Zhang Song, and then break with Liu Bei. That will be for the happiness of this land.” “But how else am I to fend off my two enemies?” “Fortify your country; dig out your moats and raise your ramparts. Then you can wait on events.” “If these rebels invade this land the position will be critical, as when fire singes one’s eyebrows. It is idle talk to tell me to wait on events.” No notice was taken of Huang Quan, and Fa Zheng was ordered to set out.

張松昨從荊州過，必與劉備同謀。可先斬張松，後絕劉備，則西川萬幸也。”璋曰：“曹操、張魯到來，何以拒之？”權曰：“不如閉境絕塞，深溝高壘，以待時清。”璋曰：“賊兵犯界，有燒眉之急；若待時清，則是慢計也。”遂不從其言，遣法正行。

Then another interfered, crying, “No, No.” This was Wang Lei, an Assistant Officer before the tent. With bowed head Wang Lei stood and said, “My lord will bring misfortune upon himself if he listens to this Zhang Song.” “Not so; I make an alliance with Liu Xuande in order to withstand Zhang Lu.” “A Zhang Lu invasion would be but a skin disease. Liu Bei’s entry into this country would be a mortal malady. Liu Bei is an unscrupulous bravo; he was once in Cao Cao’s service and plotted against him. Then he hung on to Sun Quan and seized Jingzhou.

又一人阻曰：“不可！不可！”璋視之，乃帳前從事官王累也。累頓首言曰：“主公今聽張松之說，自取其禍。”璋曰：“不然。吾結好劉玄德，實欲拒張魯也。”累曰：“張魯犯界，乃癬疥之疾；劉備入川，乃心腹之大患。況劉備世之梟雄，先事曹操，便思謀害；後從孫權，便奪荊州。

This shows his character and his designs. Think you that you two can dwell together? If you invite him, then Xichuan is lost.” “No more wild talk!” cried Liu Zhang angrily. “Xuande is of my clan and family and will not ravish me of my possessions.” He bade the lictors lead both men outside and ordered Fa Zheng to set out at once.

心術如此，安可同處乎？今若召來，西川休矣！”璋叱曰：“再休亂道！玄德是我同宗，他安肯奪我基業？”便教扶二人出。遂命法正便行。

Fa Zheng left Yizhou and went straight to Jingzhou to see Xuande. When the salutations were over he presented his letter, which Xuande opened and read. “I, Liu Zhang, a younger brother of our family, now write to General Liu Xuande. From my humble place long have I gazed in your direction, but the roads of Shu are precipitous and I have failed to send my tribute. This is to my shame. The victims of misfortune aid each other and those in trouble support each other. If friends act thus, how much more should members of the same family?

法正離益州，徑取荊州，來見玄德。參拜已畢，呈上書信。玄德拆封視之。書曰：“族弟劉璋，再拜致書於玄德宗兄將軍麾下：久伏電天，蜀道崎嶇，未及齎貢，甚切惶愧。璋聞吉凶相救，患難相扶，朋友尚然，況宗族乎？

Now Zhang Lu is mustering an army of invasion on my northern frontier, much to the injury of my tranquillity. Wherefore I send this letter that you may know of my distress and if you remember the kindly bonds of family and will play a brotherly part and lead your armies to destroy these ruffians, you will be my eternal protector and I shall be ever grateful. This letter leaves much unsaid, but I await your coming.” This letter greatly pleased Xuande. He made a banquet for the bearer thereof, and when they had mellowed themselves with wine, he dismissed the attendants and spoke to Fa Zheng in confidence. “Friend, I have long admired you, and Zhang Song extolled your virtues.

今張魯在北，旦夕興兵，侵犯璋界，甚不自安。專人謹奉尺書，上乞鈞聽。倘念同宗之情，全手足之義，即日興師剿滅狂寇，永爲脣齒，自有重酬。書不盡言，耑候車騎。”玄德看畢大喜，設宴相待法正。酒過數巡，玄德屏退左右，密謂正曰：“久仰孝直英名，張別駕多談盛德。

I shall always feel grateful for this opportunity of hearing you.” Fa Zheng bowed. “That is too great praise for a humble emissary from Shu. But they say that horses always neighed in recognition of Bole, the supreme judge of horses, and when a man has found his lord he dies for him. Have you thought further of Zhang Song’s proposals, General?” “I have always been a wanderer, often in suffering and sorrow. I have often thought of the wren for even that tiny bird has a twig to rest on; and of the cunning hare, that secures safety with three openings to its burrow. Does not a man need at least a shelter?

今獲聽教，甚慰平生。”法正謝曰：“蜀中小吏，何足道哉！蓋聞馬逢伯樂而嘶，人遇知己而死。張別駕昔日之言，將軍復有意乎？”玄德曰：“備一身寄客，未嘗不傷感而嘆息。嘗思鷦鷯尚存一枝，狡兔猶藏三窟，何況人乎？

Your land of Shu is fertile and a temptation, but its ruler is of my family and I cannot plot against him.” “Yizhou is a land of heavenly abundance, but none save a ruler who can bring order out of chaos may hold it. Liu Zhang knows not how to use the wise man and his heritage must speedily pass to another. To-day it is offered to your hands and you must not miss the opportunity. You know the saying, that the leader in the hunt gets the quarry. If you will only consent, I will serve you to the death.” Xuande signified his gratitude. Said he, “Let me reflect for a time and take advice.”

蜀中豐餘之地，非不欲取；奈劉季玉系備同宗，不忍相圖。”法正曰：“益州天府之國，非治亂之主，不可居也，今劉季玉不能用賢，此業不久必屬他人。今日自付與將軍，不可錯失。豈不聞逐兔先得之語乎？將軍欲取，某當效死。”玄德拱手謝曰：“尚容商議。”

The banquet terminated and the guest left. Kongming conducted Fa Zheng to his lodging while his master sat thinking. Then Pang Tong said, “You must decide; not to decide is foolish. You are of high intelligence, my lord, and why do you hesitate?” “What then would you have me do?” asked Xuande. “Here in Jingzhou you have Sun Quan on the east and Cao Cao on the north, and you can hardly attain your ends. Yizhou has a million households, a wide land and great wealth, a base with the greatest possibilities.

當日席散，孔明親送法正歸館舍。玄德獨坐沉吟。龐統進曰：“事當決而不決者，愚人也。主公高明，何多疑耶？”玄德問曰：“以公之意，當復何如？”統曰：“荊州東有孫權，北有曹操，難以得志。益州戶口百萬，土廣財富，可資大業。

Now you have the promise of assistance from two men within and it seems like a gift of providence. Why hesitate?” “Now there are two men in the world as mutually antagonistic as fire and water. My opposite is Cao Cao. He is impetuous and I am long suffering; he is cruel and I am humane; he feigns, while I am true. In all particulars I act the direct contrary to him. I refuse to risk the loss of the confidence and trust of the world for a trifling advantage.” Pang Tong smiled at these sentiments. “My lord’s words are quite in accord with abstract rectitude, but such ideas scarcely suit the days of rebellion. When men use arms and contend for mastery, there is no single road; to adhere too obstinately to ordinary rules is to be unable to take a single step. One must be an opportunist.

今幸張松、法正爲內助，此天賜也。何必疑哉？”玄德曰：“今與吾水火相敵者，曹操也。操以急，吾以寬；操以暴，吾以仁；操以譎，吾以忠：每與操相反，事乃可成。若以小利而失信義於天下，吾不忍也。”龐統笑曰：“主公之言，雖合天理，奈離亂之時，用兵爭強，固非一道；若拘執常理，寸步不可行矣，宜從權變。

To annex the weak and attack the wilfully deluded, to seize by force and then hold by right: these were the ways of Tang and Wu. If after the settlement you reward with righteousness and make of the land a great country, will you be guilty of a breach of trust? Remember if you do not take it now another will.” Xuande, suddenly enlightened, replied, “These words are as jewels; they should be engraven on my very heart.” Thereupon he summoned Kongming to settle the details of an army to march west. Kongming said, “Jingzhou is an important place, and part of the army must be left to defend it.”

且兼弱攻昧、逆取順守，湯、武之道也。若事定之後，報之以義，封爲大國，何負於信？今日不取，終被他人取耳。主公幸熟思焉。”玄德乃恍然曰：“金石之言，當銘肺腑。”於是遂請孔明，同議起兵西行。孔明曰：“荊州重地，必須分兵守之。”

Liu Bei replied, “Pang Shiyuan, Huang Zhong, Wei Yan and I will go into Xichuan; you, Director of Strategy, with Guan Yunchang, Zhang Yide and Zhao Zilong, can defend Jingzhou.” Kongming agreed. So Kongming had the general command of Jingzhou; Guan Yu held the main road to Xiangyang at the narrow pass of Qingni; Zhang Fei with the four districts patrolled the river; Zhao Yun camped at Jiangling and guarded Gong’an. For the march westward, Huang Zhong led the van, Wei Yan had the rearguard, while Xuande himself with Liu Feng and Guan Ping moved in the centre.

玄德曰：“吾與龐士元、黃忠、魏延前往西川；軍師可與關雲長、張翼德、趙子龍守荊州。”孔明應允。於是孔明總守荊州；關公拒襄陽要路，當青泥隘口；張飛領四郡巡江，趙雲屯江陵，鎮公安。玄德令黃忠爲前部，魏延爲後軍，玄德自與劉封、關平在中軍。

Pang Tong was commander of the whole army. Just as the five legions were starting there came Liao Hua to surrender; Xuande attached him to Yunchang to help hold off Cao Cao.

龐統爲軍師，馬步兵五萬，起程西行。臨行時，忽廖化引一軍來降。玄德便教廖化輔佐雲長以拒曹操。

It was in the winter that the expedition started. Soon they met the force under Meng Da, five companies, to act as escort into Yizhou. Liu Bei informed Liu Zhang that he had started and the latter sent orders to the districts along the road to entertain them well on the march. The Prefect proposed to go out in person to Fucheng to welcome Liu Bei and ordered carriages to be prepared and tents and banners. All the escort were dressed in glittering armour.

是年冬月，引兵望西川進發。行不數程，孟達接着，拜見玄德，說劉益州令某領兵五千遠來迎接。玄德使人入益州，先報劉璋。璋便發書告報沿途州郡，供給錢糧。璋欲自出涪城親接玄德，即下令準備車乘帳幔，旌旗鎧甲，務要鮮明。

At this the accountant, Huang Quan, the sturdy opponent of the invitation to Liu Bei, again remonstrated. “My lord, if you go out you will be exposed to danger. I have been in your service for many years and I would prevent you from being the victim of another’s wiles. I pray you reflect.” Zhang Song said, “His words are those of one who would sow discord in a family and encourage the power of the robbers who threaten you. Assuredly such action is to your detriment.” Liu Zhang then spoke angrily to Huang Quan saying, “I have decided, and why do you oppose me?” The objector knocked his head on the ground till the blood flowed. Then approaching nearer he seized hold of the Prefect’s robe with his teeth to hinder him.

主簿黃權入諫曰：“主公此去，必被劉備之害，某食祿多年，不忍主公中他人奸計。望三思之！”張松曰：“黃權此言，疏間宗族之義，滋長寇盜之威，實無益於主公。”璋乃叱權曰：“吾意已決，汝何逆吾！”權叩首流血，近前口銜璋衣而諫。

Liu Zhang angrily shook his robe and rose from his seat, but Huang Quan still held on till two of his teeth fell out. Then the lictors forced him away and he retired, still crying. As Liu Zhang was starting another man cried, “My lord, do you neglect the loyal words of your faithful Huang Quan to go to your death?” And he threw himself prostrate at the steps in remonstrance. He was one Li Hui, of Yuyuan in Jianning. “The prince may have Ministers who remonstrate with him and the father may have sons who oppose,” said he.

璋大怒，扯衣而起。權不放，頓落門牙兩個。璋喝左右，推出黃權。權大哭而歸。璋欲行，一人叫曰：“主公不納黃公衡忠言，乃欲自就死地耶！”伏於階前而諫。璋視之，乃建寧俞元人也，姓李，名恢。叩首諫曰：“竊聞君有諍臣，父有諍子。

“Huang Quan has spoken faithfully and you ought to listen. To let Liu Bei into this land is to welcome the tiger into your gates.” “Xuande is my brother and will not harm me,” said the Prefect. “And any other who shall oppose me shall suffer death.” So Li Hui was thrust out. “The officers of Shu regard the safety of their families and no longer render you service. The captains are arrogant and each has some scheme of his own to further. If you do not get Liu Bei to oppose the enemy without and your own people oppose you within, surely you are on the road to ruin.”

黃公衡忠義之言，必當聽從。若容劉備入川，是猶迎虎於門也。”璋曰：“玄德是吾宗兄，安肯害吾？再言者必斬！”叱左右推出李恢。張松曰：“今蜀中文官各顧妻子，不復爲主公效力；諸將恃功驕傲，各有外意。不得劉皇叔，則敵攻於外，民攻於內，必敗之道也。”

So spoke Zhang Song and the Prefect replied that he knew the plan was for his advantage. Next day he mounted his horse and rode out by the Elm Bridge Gate. Then it was reported to him that Wang Lei had suspended himself, head downwards, at the city gate. In one hand he held a written remonstrance and in the other a sword. “And he says that if you heed him not he will cut the rope and die at your feet,” concluded the messenger. Liu Zhang had the memorial brought to him and read it. It said in substance:—“I, Wang Lei, Assistant Officer of Yizhou, with tears of blood earnestly declare: Good medicine is bitter in the mouth but good for the disease; faithful words offend the ear but are good for the conduct.

璋曰：“公所謀，深於吾有益。”次日，上馬出榆橋門。人報從事王累，自用繩索倒吊於城門之上，一手執諫章，一手仗劍，口稱如諫不從，自割斷其繩索，撞死於此地。劉璋教取所執諫章觀之。其略曰：“益州從事臣王累，泣血懇告：竊聞良藥苦口利於病，忠言逆耳利於行。

Of old King Huai of Chu listened not to Qu Yuan, but attended the meeting at Wu Pass and was held captive by Qin. Sir, you are thoughtlessly leaving your place to go to welcome Liu Bei, but I fear there is a way out and none in. Could you but behead Zhang Song in the market-place and have nothing to do with this league with Liu Bei, it would be for the happiness of old and young, and assure the safety of yourself.” Anger rose in his breast as he read. “I go to meet a man of kindness, and it is like drawing near to fragrant orchids. Why do you insult me again and again?”

昔楚懷王不聽屈原之言，會盟於武關，爲秦所困。今主公輕離大郡，欲迎劉備於涪城，恐有去路而無迴路矣。倘能斬張松於市，絕劉備之約，則蜀中老幼幸甚，主公之基業亦幸甚！”劉璋觀畢，大怒曰：“吾與仁人相會，如親芝蘭，汝何數侮於吾耶！”

At this Wang Lei gave a great cry, severed the rope and fell to the ground battered and dead.

王累大叫一聲，自割斷其索，撞死於地。

Head downwards at the city gate one hung,
A last remonstrance in his outstretched hand,
Resolved that, were his words rejected, he Would not survive defeat. Sincere was he Who, desperate, held to Liu Zhang’s silken robe
Until his broken teeth released their grip.
Sincere indeed, but how can he compare
With stern Wang Lei, who went to awful death?

後人有詩嘆曰：“倒掛城門捧諫章，拚將一死報劉璋。
黃權折齒終降備，矢節何如王累剛！
”

Liu Zhang with thirty thousand men went to Fucheng, and his rear brought over a thousand waggons laden with supplies, money and rich stuffs, to welcome his clansman. Meanwhile Liu Bei’s advanced guard had arrived at Dianjiang. Wherever they went, supplies were furnished by Xichuan; moreover Liu Bei’s orders were strict, and whoever took so much as a single thing from the people was to be put to death. Thus wherever they went not a hair was harmed, and the people, leading the old and carrying the young, lined the roads to watch, burning incense and bowing.

劉璋將三萬人馬往涪城來。後軍裝載資糧錢帛一千餘輛，來接玄德。卻說玄德前軍已到墊江。所到之處，一者是西川供給；二者是玄德號令嚴明，如有妄取百姓一物者斬：於是所到之處，秋毫無犯。百姓扶老攜幼，滿路瞻觀，焚香禮拜。

Liu Bei soothed them with very gracious words. Then Fa Zheng secretly showed Pang Tong a letter from Zhang Song advocating the assassination of Liu Zhang near the place of welcome. Pang Tong said, “Say nothing about this; after the two Lius have met there may be opportunities but this is too early to talk. Any plot would leak out.” So nothing was said. Fucheng, where the meeting was to take place, is three hundred and sixty li from Chengdu.

玄德皆用好言撫慰。卻說法正密謂龐統曰：“近張松有密書到此，言於涪城相會劉璋，便可圖之。機會切不可失。”統曰：“此意且勿言。待二劉相見，乘便圖之。若預走泄，於中有變。”法正乃祕而不言。涪城離成都三百六十里。

Liu Zhang had already arrived, and he sent messengers to welcome Liu Bei. The two armies camped on the bank of the Fu River. Liu Bei went into the city to see the Prefect and they met cordially as brothers should. Both shed a few tears, and by and bye they began a heart-to-heart talk. Then followed a banquet and after this each returned to his own camp.

璋已到，使人迎接玄德。兩軍皆屯於涪江之上。玄德入城，與劉璋相見，各敘兄弟之情。禮畢，揮淚訴告衷情。飲宴畢，各回寨中安歇。

The Prefect said, “How ridiculous have been proved the fears of Huang Quan and Wang Lei! They do not understand the force of family affection. I see he is really a kindly and noble man, and with him as a support I shall fear neither Cao nor Zhang. And I owe all this to Zhang Song.” To show his gratitude he took off the green silken robe he wore and sent it to Chengdu as a gift to Zhang Song, together with five hundred liang of gold. However, some of his officers, Liu Gui, Leng Bao, Zhang Ren, Deng Xian and others, civil and military, were not so content. “Do not rejoice too soon, O Master,” said they.

璋謂衆官曰：“可笑黃權、王累等輩，不知宗兄之心，妄相猜疑。吾今日見之，真仁義之人也。吾得他爲外援，又何慮曹操、張魯耶？非張松則失之矣。”乃脫所穿綠袍，並黃金五百兩，令人往成都賜與張松。時部下將佐劉璝、泠苞、張任、鄧賢等一班文武官曰：“主公且休歡喜。

“Liu Bei is hard enough within in spite of his mild exterior. You have not sounded him yet and should be on your guard.” “You are all too anxious;” said he, laughing, “my brother is no double-dealer, I am sure.” They all sighed and withdrew.

劉備柔中有剛，其心未可測，還宜防之。”璋笑曰：“汝等皆多慮。吾兄豈有二心哉！”衆皆嗟嘆而退。

When Liu Bei had returned to his own tent, Pang Tong came in to ask what impression he had of his host of that day. “He seems a very honest man,” said Liu Bei. “He is good enough, but some of his servants are discontented at this turn of affairs and I would not guarantee there will be no murders. If you took my advice you would have Liu Zhang assassinated at the return banquet. A hundred ruffians behind the arras, a signal from you, and the deed would be accomplished. All that would be needed then would be a rush on the capital. No sword need be drawn, no arrow fitted to the string.”

卻說玄德歸到寨中。龐統入見曰：“主公今日席上見劉季玉動靜乎？”玄德曰：“季玉真誠實人也。”統曰：“季玉雖善，其臣劉璝、張任等皆有不平之色，其間吉凶未可保也。以統之計，莫若來日設宴，請季玉赴席；於壁衣中埋伏刀斧手一百人，主公擲杯爲號，就筵上殺之；一擁入成都，刀不出鞘，弓不上弦，可坐而定也。”

“He is a brother of my house and has treated me with sincerity. I am a new-comer and so far unknown in this land. Such a deed would be abhorrent to all the world and these people would resent it. I will not establish myself by such means.” “The scheme is not mine; it originated in a private letter from Zhang Song, who says it will have to be done some time.” At this moment Fa Zheng came in and said, “This is not for ourselves; it is the will of heaven.”

玄德曰：“季玉是吾同宗，誠心待吾；更兼吾初到蜀中，恩信未立；若行此事，上天不容，下民亦怨。公此謀，雖霸者亦不爲也。”統曰：“此非統之謀，是法孝直得張松密書，言事不宜遲，只在早晚當圖之。”言未已，法正入見，曰：“某等非爲自己，乃順天命也。”

“Liu Zhang and I are of the same house and I would shudder at harming him.” “Sir, you are wrong. If you act not as we propose, then Zhang Lu will take Shu in revenge for the death of his mother. What is there for you at the end of your long march? Advance, and success is yours; retreat and you have nothing. And delays are most dangerous. At any moment this scheme may leak out and another will reap the profit.

玄德曰：“劉季玉與吾同宗，不忍取之。”正曰：“明公差矣。若不如此，張魯與蜀有殺母之仇，必來攻取。明公遠涉山川，驅馳士馬，既到此地，進則有功，退則無益。若執狐疑之心，遷延日久，大爲失計。且恐機謀一泄，反爲他人所算。

This is the day when Heaven smiles on you. Act before Liu Zhang suspects you; establish yourself.” So urged Fa Zheng, and Pang Tong too pressed him again and again.

不若乘此天與人歸之時，出其不意，早立基業，實爲上策。”龐統亦再三相勸。

Their lord, by argument, they tried
From rectitude to turn aside. What Liu Bei hid in his heart will be explained in the next chapter.

正是：人主幾番存厚道，才臣一意進權謀。
未知玄德心下如何，且看下文分解。