shutter in the wall, had forced it open and was looking out. Thus long he waited, motionless, but observing every leaf that stirred among the trees and shrubs and neglected growth beyond. At last a figure passed across a distant glade and at the sight Kai Lung lifted up a restrained voice in song:
"At the foot of a bleak and inhospitable mountain.
An insignificant stream winds its uncared way;
Although inferior to the Yang-tse-kiang in every detail,
Yet fish glide to and fro among its crannies;
Nor would they change their home for the depths of the widest river.
The palace of the sublime Emperor is made rich with hanging curtains,
While here rough stone walls forbid repose.
Yet there is one who unhesitatingly prefers the latter;
For from an open shutter here he can look forth,
And perchance catch a glimpse of one who may pass by.
The occupation of the Imperial viceroy is both lucrative and noble;
While that of a relater of imagined tales is by no means esteemed.
But he who thus expressed himself would not exchange with the other;
For around the identity of each heroine he can entwine the personality of one whom he has encountered.
And thus she is ever by his side."
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