Burning Letters
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Cao Cao, the ruler of Wei during the Period of the Three Kingdoms, was a man of keen observation and excellent judgment. He was thrifty. His life style was plain. But he shared everything with his subordinates. When it came to rewarding a person with merit, he would not think a thousand ounces of gold as too much. When it came to use of talented men, he would not hesitate to appoint surrendered enemy to be officers in his army.
He was contending with General Yuan Shao for the dominance of northern China. After his forces captured Yuan's stronghold Guandu in modern Henan Province, his advisor discovered secret correspondence between Yuan Shao and many officers in Cao Cao’s army who had pledged allegiance to Yuan. The advisor suggested that these officers be arrested and executed for treachery.
Cao Cao thought differently.
“When Yuan Shao was strong, even I was afraid of him. How can I blame others?”
He ordered all the letters be burned and nothing was said of the matter.
At the time Yuan Shao still controlled large areas in the north. Cao Cao understood if he started an investigation, the consequences could be disastrous. Those under investigation might mutiny against him. Burning the letters, on the contrary, would demonstrate his magnanimity and reassure those who had secretly corresponded with General Yuan Shao.
In the end Yuan Shao was crushed by him.
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Wise Proverbs
- Let bygones be bygones.
- 既往不咎。
- A ruler exercising benevolence and justice will surely win the support and help of most people; if he fails to do so, the people will bo absolved of all loyalty to him.
- 得道者多助，失道者寡助。
- Plan strategies within a command tent, and ensure victory on the battlefront a thousand li away.
- 运筹帷幄之中那个，决胜千里之外。
Editor Says:
Cao Cao knew he could not lead without loyalty. But to command loyalty, he must deserve it, and to expect others to be loyal, he must act as though they were already loyal.