CHAPTER XXIII.
Mi Heng Slips his Garment and Rails at Traitors:
Cruel Punishment of the Physician Chi.
At the close of the last chapter the two unsuccessful leaders Liu and Wang were in danger of death. However, one of the advisers, K‘ung Jung, remonstrated with Tsʻao saying, “You knew these two were no match for Liu Pei and if you put them to death because they failed you will lose the hearts of your men.”
Wherefore the death sentence was not executed but they were deprived of rank and status. Tsʻao next proposed to lead an army himself to attack Liu Pei, but the weather was too inclement. So it was settled to await the return of spring. In the interval there would be time to arrange peace with Chang Hsiu and Liu Piao.
Wherefore Liu Yeh was sent to the former of these and in due time reached Hsiangchʻêng. He first had an interview with Chia Hsü, whereat he dwelt upon Tsʻao’s virtues so that Hsü was impressed, kept him as a guest and undertook to smooth his way.
Soon after he saw Chang Hsiu and spoke of the advantages of coming to terms with Tsʻao Tsʻao. While the discussion was in progress a messenger from Yüan Shao was announced and he was called in. He presented letters and, when they also proposed terms of peace, Chia Hsü asked what their success had been lately against Tsʻao.
“The war had ceased for the moment on account of the winter,” replied the messenger. “As you, General, and Liu Piao are both well reputed officers of the State, I have been sent to request your help.”
Chia Hsü laughed, “You can return to your master and say that as he could not brook rivalry of his brother he certainly would be sorely put to it with that of all the officers of the State.”
The letter was torn into fragments before the messenger’s face and he was angrily bidden begone.
“But his master, Yüan Shao, is stronger than Tsʻao Tsʻao,” protested Chang Hsiu. “You have torn up his letter and are dismissing his man. What shall we say about such an insult should Yüan Shao come?”
“Better join hands with Tsʻao Tsʻao,” said Chia Hsü.
