Human Head for a Loan
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Cao Cao was engaged in a prolonged campaign, and there was a shortage of food. He asked the commissary what to do. The latter suggested that the food ration be cut by using a smaller measure so that the existing supply could last long enough until new supplies arrived. Cao Cao agreed.
Soon there was much complaint in the army. The soldiers accused Cao Cao of cheating them out of their food. The atmosphere was mutinous. Cao Cao summoned the commissary.
“I want to borrow something from you,” he told the man.
“What do you want?”
“Your head.”
“But I’ve done nothing wrong.”
“True. But if I don’t put you to death, there will be a mutiny. I’ll take good care of your family after your death.”
The commissary was executed.
Cao Cao told his soldiers, “The man stole grain and used a smaller measure for your food ration. But supplies are coming. Please be patient.”
The soldiers accepted his explanation and a potential crisis was averted.
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Cutting Hair
Wise Proverbs
- Don't cast the blame on other people.
- 不应嫁祸于人。
- Don't play a trick.
- 不应耍阴谋诡计。
- Beware the person with a Buddha's mouth and a snake's heart.
- 佛口蛇心。
Editor Says:
Cao Cao was ruthless, unscrupulous, but good at management, and furthermore, he was endowed with literary talent. This earned him the name of a rogue of many parts. He was at once hated and admired by many Chinese.