The Gift Box
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Marquis Wen, the ruler of Wei, decided to attack Zhong shan which was ruled by a tyrant. He intended to appoint Yue Yang to be the commander-in-chief.
“Although Yue Yang is a capable, honest man,” said his advisor, “his son is an official in Zhongshan. It is better to appoint somebody else.”
Marquis Wen asked Yue Yang, “Would that be a problem for you, General?”
“No. I am a man of Wei and I work for the interest of Wei.”
When Yue Yang’s army reached the border of Zhongshan, his son Yue Shu came to see him on the instructions of the ruler of Zhongshan. Yue Yang rebuked his son for serving a bad ruler but agreed to postpone his attack for a month so that the ruler of Zhongshan could consider submission.
But the ruler of Zhongshan had no intention of doing so. He thought Yue Yang would not attack because of his son. A month later, he sent Yue Shu to Yue Yang’s camp again. And again Yue Yang postponed his attack at his son’s request. Another month passed, but there was no sign of yielding on the part of Zhongshan. Nevertheless, Yue Yang granted another month’s grace when his son came to ask for it.
Back in Wei, many officials were uneasy and questioned his loyalty. But Marquis Wen sent envoys to reassure him and bring him gifts.
“What are you waiting for, General?” Yue Yang’s deputy asked him.
“I’m waiting for the right moment.”
He waited yet another month and then ordered a major offensive. The ruler of Zhongshan killed Yue Shu and had his flesh cut and cooked to make a broth. He had the broth sent to Yue Yang in the hope that it might shock him into retreat. But Yue Yang intensified his attack. Zhongshan’s defense collapsed and its ruler committed suicide.
Marquis Wen greeted Yue Yang at the gate of the capital on his return and held a grand party to celebrate his victory. At the end of the banquet, he gave Yue Yang a gift box to take home. Yue Yang expected to find gold and silver inside. But when he opened the box, he found it only contained letters and memorials from those who had expressed their doubts about his loyalty.
He came to realize the great trust Marquis Wen had placed in him. The following day he lost no time in expressing his profound gratitude.
“Without Your Lordship’s confidence in me, I could not have won the victory.”
“I trusted you because I know what kind of a man you are.” Marquis Wen rewarded him a huge estate.
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Power Banquet
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Wise Proverbs
- A person of true worth attracts admiration.
- 桃李不言，下自成蹊。
- To appoint people on their merits.
- 任人唯贤。
- Honesty is the best policy.
- 做人诚信为本。
Editor Says:
Show your trust to those who work for you, and you will earn their gratitude and loyalty.