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PT. I. SECT.I.
THE WRITINGS OF KWANG-ZZE.
all external things), returning, however, after fifteen days, (to his place). In regard to the things that (are supposed to) contribute to happiness, he was free from all endeavours to obtain them; but though he had not to walk, there was still something for which he had to wait. But suppose one who mounts on (the ether of) heaven and earth in its normal operation, and drives along the six elemental energies of the changing (seasons), thus enjoying himself in the illimitable, —what has he to wait for1? Therefore it is said, 'The Perfect man has no (thought of) self; the Spirit-like man, none of merit; the Sagelyminded man, none of fame?'
4. Yão?, proposing to resign the throne to Hsü Yû”, said, “When the sun and moon have come forth, if the torches have not been put out, would it not be difficult for them to give light? When the seasonal rains are coming down, if we still keep watering the ground, will not our toil be labour lost for all the good it will do ? Do you, Master, stand forth (as sovereign), and the kingdom will (at once) be well governed. If I still (continue to) preside over it, I must look on myself as vainly occupying the place ;-I beg to resign the throne to you.' Hsü
1 The description of a master of the Tâo, exalted by it, unless the predicates about him be nothing but the ravings of a wild extravagance, above mere mortal man. In the conclusion, however, he is presented under three different phrases, which the reader will do well to keep in mind.
The great sovereign with whom the documents of the Shû King commence :-B. C. 2357-2257.
3 A counsellor of Yao, who is once mentioned by Sze-mâ Khien in his account of Po-i, -in the first Book of his Biographies (GU ). Hsü Yû is here the instance of the Sagely man,' with whom the desire of a name or fame has no influence.
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