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CHAPTER 1

Drill Instructor Wang Goes Stealthily to Yanan Prefecture; Shi Jin Defends His Village

DURING the reign of the Emperor Zhezong of the Song Dynasty there lived at the Eastern Capital Bianliang, in Kaifeng Prefecture, a loose profligate, named Gao.44 He could handle well either spear or cudgel, and was an extremely good player at football. He was the second son of a Gao family, but instead of calling him Gao the Second,45 people gave him the nickname of Gao Qiu meaning Gao “the Ball.” Later on, however, he adopted another character, also pronounced Qiu.

He could play well on wood or string instruments, but was no good at poetry or literature. If there was a discussion of benevolence, justice, propriety, wisdom, or virtue he was unable to take part. He wasted his time in the company of the son of a wealthy man, and every day these two spent their time in pleasure resorts. His conduct became so bad that at last the wealthy man lodged a complaint before the Prefect who had him arrested, punished with twenty blows of the bamboo, and then banished from the capital.

Gao Qiu went to Huaixi in Linhuai Prefecture where he found refuge in a gambling den, which afforded shelter to all the lazy rascals from all places. Three years after this, however, the Emperor granted an amnesty so as to show his benevolence. Upon hearing of this, Gao Qiu decided to return to the capital, and got an introduction to a man named Dong Jiangshi who kept a drug store at the Jinliang Bridge. Upon reading the letter, this man remembered the bad reputation of Gao Qiu, and was afraid that if he lived at his house he might have an evil influence on his children. So after about ten days Dong spoke to Gao Qiu, “Here we can offer you little help. I will however recommend you to a certain Su the Younger, a scholar, who may assist you in cutting a fine career. What do you think of that?”

Gao Qiu was much pleased at this and thanked Dong Jiangshi. Dong wrote a note and sent this with Gao Qiu to the residence of the high official. The doorkeeper announced the arrival, and the scholar Su came out to see Gao Qiu. He also remembered that Gao Qiu was a profligate and decided to get rid of him by recommending him to the Emperor’s son-in-law, the Prince Consort Wang Jinqing as a steward.

The following day Su sent Gao Qiu with a servant to Prince Consort Wang Jinqing. This Prince Wang was the husband of the younger sister of the Emperor Zhezong, and son-in-law of the Emperor Shenzong. He took pleasure in meeting flaboyant, stylish men, and when he received the introduction he was glad, and he made Gao Qiu his personal attendant.

An ancient saying is: “Remoteness begets neglect; nearness brings about intimacy.” It happened that on his birthday Prince Wang suddenly gave orders to prepare a feast, and specially invited his maternal uncle Prince Duan who was the eleventh son of the late Emperor Shenzong, and the younger brother of the Emperor Zhezong. He controlled the affairs of the Emperor’s eastern palaces where he was known as the Ninth Prince. He was intelligent and handsome—but his taste was not so—he preferring profligacy. However, he was a good performer on the lute, he could play chess, paint pictures, and was an excellent footballer. On the day mentioned Prince Duan took the seat of honor at the feast prepared. When the wine was brought in they drank several cups, and after the second course Prince Duan took leave for the toilet. He then retired to the library for a rest and there he happened to see on the reading table a pair of lions made of white jade used as paperweights. They were of elegant workmanship, and he admired them very much. Prince Wang saw that Prince Duan was fond of them so he said, “There is also a jade brush rack with a dragon design made by the same hand, but it is not here now. I will get it tomorrow and send both of them to you.” Prince Duan was much pleased and said, “I am much obliged for your generosity. I think the brush rack must be very fine.” The two men then returned to the banquet and feasted until the evening—when they were very intoxicated they separated, and Prince Duan returned to the palace.

The following day Prince Wang packed the two jade-lion paperweights and the jade brush rack in a golden box, wrote a letter, and sent Gao Qiu off with them. Upon reaching Prince Duan’s palace the doorkeeper reported his arrival to the courtyard attendant who inquired his business and then said, “My master is playing football with the eunuchs in the courtyard. You may go in by yourself.” The courtyard attendant accompanied him to the gate, and there Gao Qiu saw Prince Duan wearing as a cap, a soft gauze towel of the Tang Dynasty style, and arrayed in a purple gown embroidered with a dragon and a waistbelt with two tassels. The gown was folded up and tucked in the belt. His boots were inlaid with golden thread in the design of a phoenix. There were three or five eunuchs playing football with him.

Gao Qiu dared not to intrude—so he took up his position behind the servants. Now good luck had come to Gao Qiu. The ball rebounded from the ground and Prince Duan failed to kick it—it bounced into the crowd of spectators and landed at the side of Gao Qiu. He saw the ball and instantly had courage. He used the mandarin-duck twist (one leg behind the other) and kicked the ball back to Prince Duan. Prince Duan saw this and being pleased with the exhibition, asked who he was.

Gao Qiu knelt down and said, “I am a confidential servant of Prince Consort Wang and by his orders, I have brought two jade curios to present to Your Highness,” so saying, he offered the letter with both hands.

Prince Duan hearing this, laughed and said that Prince Wang was very obliging. He opened the box and after examining the curios handed them to an attendant. He then asked Gao Qiu, “Can you play football? Who are you?” Gao Qiu clasping his hands and kneeling down said, “I am called Gao Qiu. I was punishable for kicking that football.” Prince Duan said, “Good! come into the playground and again try.” Gao Qiu saluted with folded arms, and said, “What kind of man I am to dare play with Your Highness?” Prince Duan replied, “This is the Society of Gathering of Clouds,” also known as the “World’s Horizon” (meaning, there is plenty of room for you). It does not matter if you play.” Gao Qiu again saluted; saying, “I cannot do it.” He begged leave to depart time and again, but as Prince Duan insisted upon his playing, Gao Qiu had no escape—so he kowtowed, and confessed his inability, he then untied the garters round his knees and moved towards the center of the ground. Gao Qiu kicked a few times, and Prince Duan applauded. Gao Qiu had to use all his skill to please the Prince. He played the ball as though it stuck to his body like glue or paste. He never missed it. Prince Duan was highly amused and was unwilling to let Gao Qiu return, so he kept him there for the night. Next day Prince Duan ordered a banquet and sent a special invitation to Prince Consort Wang. The latter had become anxious at the absence of Gao Qiu but upon receipt of this invitation he mounted a horse and went to Prince Duan’s palace. Upon entering the banquet hall Duan expressed his gratitude for the curios and then said, “This man Gao Qiu kicks equally well with both feet. I should like to have him for my personal attendant—what do you say?” Prince Wang answered, “If you have any use for him, you may keep him.” Prince Duan was pleased and offering a cup of wine thanked him. The two men chatted until evening.

From that time Prince Duan had Gao Qiu as a special servant and the latter did his work well. Every day he accompanied Prince Duan and was always close at his hand. In less than two months the Emperor Zhezong died without an heir. A large number of civil and military officials petitioned Prince Duan to become Emperor. He ascended the throne with the reign title of Huizong, and known with the Taoist titles of High Priest of Jade Purity and the Emperor of Subtle Truth.

Upon ascending the throne he did nothing remarkable. One day he said to Gao Qiu, “I want to make you an official. But I cannot promote you unless you have shown your merit. Now I will first tell the Grand Council to record your name as an imperial attendant.” Within six months Gao Qiu was raised to Marshal of the Imperial Guard.

Before proceeding to his new post he selected a fortunate hour and a lucky day to begin his duties. All the lower officers of various military ranks—both cavalry and infantry—visited him to pay their respects—present their credentials with details of their records. Gao Qiu, the Marshal of the Imperial Guard, examined these reports one by one and noticed one was missing, that is of Wang Jin, the Drill Instructor of the Imperial Guard. About two weeks before Wang Jin had been sick and had not been able to attend business at his yamen.46 Gao Qiu was very angry at this and shouted, “What nonsense! His credentials are here but he himself has not come. This is disobedience, yet he pretends to be sick at home. Men, have him brought here at once.” He forthwith sent men to arrest Wang Jin.

Now this Wang Jin had no wife and lived with his mother who was over sixty years of age. The sergeant spoke to Wang Jin, “Marshal Gao Qiu of the Imperial Guard has assumed his post but has not yet seen you. The Adjutant reported that you were sick at home but Marshal Gao Qiu did not believe this and has sent me to arrest you—you had better go and see him. If you do not go, I shall be implicated.” Wang Jin hearing this saw no alternative but to go, in spite of his sickness.

Upon entering the door of the headquarters he saw the Marshal at the other end of the hall and kowtowed four times, then bowing he called “nuo” (a sound to attract attention almost equivalent to saying “waiting your order”), then lifting his head he stood at one side.

Marshal Gao Qiu asked, “Are you not the son of Wang Sheng who used to be a Drill Instructor of the whole army?” Wang Jin admitted this.

Marshal Gao Qiu then shouted at him, “So it is you—your father used to sell medicine and exercise the fencing stick to attract a crowd on the street. What military skill have you? But don’t be supercilious because I can court-martial you—you must not dare to presume on your rank and differ from my point of view. On whose influence are you depending? What excuse have you for resting at home?” Wang Jin answered, “I speak the truth. I am certainly sick and have not yet recovered.” Marshal Gao Qiu used abusive language and said, “You banished thief! If you were sick how could you come here?” Then Wang Jin said, “You summoned me here so I had to come.” Marshal Gao Qiu was very angry and shouted an order to the attendants to seize Wang Jin and beat him severely. Among the junior officers there were many who were friendly with Wang Jin, they therefore joined to plead to Marshal Gao Qiu, “Today is your inauguration day it is a lucky day, please forgive this man, this time.”

Marshal Gao Qiu spoke in a loud voice, “You banished thief! These junior officers want me to forgive you. I will speak to you again tomorrow.” Wang Jin confessed his guilt. Holding up his head he recognized that he was Gao Qiu. He left the headquarters and heaving a sigh said, “Just now my life is insecure; this Gao Qiu was previously at the capital known as Gao the Second—head of a gang of lazy men. At that time he was learning to use the cudgels, and my father hit him, and for three or four months he could not get up from a sick bed. Now he has fortunately become Marshal of the Imperial Guard, and is eager for revenge. I did not know that he was my superior officer. From ancient times it has been said: “Fear not the authorities, except those that have authority over you.” There is no help for me. He returned home in a very melancholy mood.

He told his mother about the affair, and they held together and cried: “My son, of thirty-six ways of doing a thing going is the only one that is the best. I am afraid there is no safe place for us.” Wang Jin said, “What you say, mother, is true. Your son has also thought of this plan. There is at Yanan Prefecture a General who guards the frontier and controls many military officers, who used to come to the capital to see me fence. Why should we not now fly to him for refuge? At that place I could get employment and settle down to a quiet life.”

Mother and son discussed this matter and after deciding, she said, “My son, I must go with you secretly: but I am afraid of the sentries who are stationed outside the door by the headquarters, and we certainly will not be able to get away if they hear of our plans.” Wang Jin said, “Never mind, don’t worry, mother, I will arrange matters satisfactorily with them.” Before the sun set Wang Jin called the sentry Zhang to come inside. He gave him an order—“After you have had your supper I want you to go to a place to do something for me.” The sentry inquired where he was to go. Wang Jin said, “Because of my sickness I once took a vow to offer sacrifice at the Yue Temple outside the Suanzao Gate—I wish to be there tomorrow morning and be the first person to burn incense—I want you to go this evening and inform the head priest of this matter. Tell him to have the doors open early tomorrow morning and wait until I come to burn the first incense. There I shall present three sacrifical meats to the gods Liu, Li, and Wang. You must stay at the temple till I come.”

Zhang, the sentry replied, “I have already had my supper and will now go to the temple to arrange matters.”

That night the mother and son packed their baggage—making two loads for carrying on a pole. They filled two bags with fodder to be tied on the horse, and waited until nearly dawn. Then Wang Jin awakened Li, the other sentry, and giving him silver told him to go to the temple and buy the three meats for the sacrifices, as he himself would buy some yellow candles and would arrive later. Li, the sentry, took the money and departed. Wang Jin saddled the horse and led it out of the stable, fastening the fodder on with ropes and making all tight, he assisted his mother to mount. The furniture, etc., was abandoned. Locking the door he shouldered his load and followed the horse. It was the fifth watch about 4 A.M. and was still dark—so availing themselves of this, they left by the Xihua Gate—and traveled quickly toward Yanan Prefecture, Shaanxi province.

The two sentries at the temple bought the meats for the sacrifices, cooked them, and then waited until about 11 A.M. without seeing Wang Jin. Sentry Li became anxious and returned to the house to look for Wang Jin. He found that the doors were locked, and he could not enter. After half a day he saw nobody come. Sentry Zhang stayed at the temple until evening and then returned to the house. They both watched the house during the night without seeing Wang Jin or his mother. The following day they inquired of Wang’s relatives but no one could be found. They did not wish to be implicated, and therefore reported the matter to the headquarters.

Marshal Gao Qiu upon hearing the report was very angry and wrote a dispatch instructing the officials in every prefecture and district to arrest Wang Jin. The two sentries were free from all blame.

Wang Jin and his mother traveled a good distance from the capital taking their meals on the way as chance permitted. They had been on the way over a month, when one evening Wang Jin remarked to his mother who was riding the horse in front, “May Heaven have pity on us and we are now beyond the reach of legal punishment, as although Marshal Gao Qiu has ordered my arrest, Yanan Prefecture is not far away.” They both felt contented but they were not aware that they had passed the only available inn. As it grew dusk, however, they saw the glimmer of a light in a forest a good distance away. Wang Jin decided to investigate as to whether they could stay there for the night. He went into the forest, and saw a farmyard which was surrounded by a mud wall, with about three hundred willow trees outside. He knocked at the gate, and when a servant came he saluted with folded hands. He explained the situation, and asked for a night’s lodging for his mother and himself for which they would pay.

The servant went inside to report the matter, and upon his return said the farmer wished to see them. Wang Jin requested his mother to dismount and tied the horse to a tree. He put his load on the threshing floor, and then they followed the servant into the house.

The farmer was over sixty years of age, and his hair was all white. He was wearing a warm cap to protect his head from the dust; a loose fitting gown with a black sash round the waist, and dressed leather boots. Wang Jin saluted, but the farmer said, “Friend, don’t stand on ceremony. You are travelers in distress. Please be seated.”

Wang Jin and his mother, observing the rules of propriety, sat down, and in answer to the farmer’s questions Wang Jin explained, “My name is Zhang, and I lived in the capital. Business was bad so I sold all my things, and am now on my way to Yanan Prefecture where I hope to stay with my relatives. Today we have traveled a good distance, but have unfortunately missed the inn. We now wish to stay for the night at your honorable house.”

The farmer said, “Never mind! No men of this world carry houses about with them. Have you dined?” He then ordered a servant to bring food. The servants soon arranged a table, and carried in trays with four dishes of vegetables, and dishes of beef. They placed these on the table, and then poured out wine. After exchanging complimentary phrases they sat down, and after several cups of wine, rice was brought in. When they had finished the meal, the farmer conducted them to the guest chamber. Wang Jin said, “My mother has ridden the horse a long way, and I suppose that it will be well fed.”

“That does not matter,” said the farmer. “Here we have many animals, horses and mules, and I have already instructed the servants to look after your horse and feed it well.”

Wang Jin thanked him, and then brought his bundles into the chamber. The servants lit a lamp and brought in a tub of hot water for the guests to wash their feet. When the farmer and servants had withdrawn Wang Jin and his mother retired to rest. They slept till well after daybreak the next day. The farmer came to the door of their room to make inquiries, and heard Wang Jin’s mother groaning so he asked what was the matter. Wang Jin told him, “I certainly will not deceive you. My mother was very tired last night, and she became sick.”

“This being the case, you must not worry,” said the farmer. “Tell your mother that she can rest here for a few days. I have a prescription for her sickness, and will send a servant into the town for the medicine. Tell her that she will soon be well again.” Wang Jin expressed his thanks. His mother took the medicine and in about five days she was quite well again.

On that day Wang Jin wished to leave and went to the stables to look at the horse. In the yard he saw a young man with naked body, tattooed all over with nine dragons and with sleeves turned up. His face was as white as a silver plate. He was about eighteen years old and was exercising with a cudgel. Wang Jin watched him for some time and then soliloquized, “You use your cudgels very well but I think it could be improved, as there are better men than you.”

The young man was angry upon hearing this and said in a loud voice, “Who are you? How dare you sneer at my display—I have been trained by about eight well-known teachers, and I do not think you are their equal. Would you care to fence with me?” While he was speaking the farmer came on the scene and said, “Young man, you are ill-mannered.” He replied, “He should not have laughed at my display.”

“Can our guest use the cudgel?” asked the farmer. “I know a little about it. May I ask who is this young man?” The farmer replied. “He is my son.” “As he is a young man of this house I will give him a few lessons if he likes.” “That’s very good,” said the farmer. He then summoned his son to come and pay respects to the guest, but he was unwilling to do this and instead he became very angry—He said, “Father, do not listen to his stupid talk—If he beats me with the cudgel, then I will pay respects to him as a teacher.”

“If you do not believe that I can do this, let us have a contest with the cudgels.” The young man walked to the middle of the yard and picking up a cudgel whirled it round. He addressed Wang Jin, “Come on! If afraid, you will be a coward.” Wang Jin only laughed, and was unwilling to move. “If you are willing to instruct my son, what objection have you to using the cudgel?” said the farmer. Wang Jin laughed, “I am afraid that I may hurt your son, and that will not do.” “That does not matter. Even if you break his arm or leg, that will be his own fault,” said the farmer. Wang Jin said, “Forgive me if I make a mistake.” He then went to the arms rack, and taking a cudgel, went to the center of the yard and stood on guard. The young man seeing this, seized his cudgel and went to strike at him. Wang Jin retreated, trailing his cudgel on the ground. The farmer’s son flourished his weapon and pursued him. Wang Jin suddenly turned round and delivered a downward blow. Seeing the blow descending, the farmer’s son met it with an upward thrust. Wang Jin stayed his blow, drew his cudgel away, and then with a sudden thrust, struck the young man on the breast and with a twist, knocked the young man’s cudgel out of his hand. He fell down on his back, and Wang Jin immediately advanced to lift him, saying; “Do not blame me! Do not get offended!” The farmer’s son scrambled up, brought a stool and requested Wang Jin to be seated. He saluted Wang Jin, saying: “I have wasted my time with other teachers; but they prove to be unworthy half a cash.47 Now I have to ask you to be my teacher.”

“My mother and I have given much trouble to your house for many days,” said Wang Jin. I have no favors to give you but I can compensate by teaching you.” The farmer was much pleased and told the servants to kill a sheep—prepare a feast with wine and fruit. He also invited Wang Jin’s mother to attend the banquet. All four sat down and drank wine together. The farmer stood up with a cup of wine and addressing Wang Jin, said, “Teacher, you are so skillful; you must be an instructor. My son, you have eyes, but have failed to see this eminent person.” Wang Jin laughed, “I will not deceive you. I am not Zhang; I am Wang Jin, Drill Inspector of the Imperial Guard at Kaifeng. Just now a new commander has arrived—Marshal Gao Qiu—and because my father once knocked him down with a cudgel he still harbors resentment, against me. As I am his subordinate I cannot dispute with him, so I take my mother to Yanan Prefecture. It was by chance that I came here and met you. You have treated me well—cured my mother, entertained us, so I felt uneasy of your generosity. If your son is willing to learn I can teach him. At present, his fencing is only showy and spectacular, but in a real contest it would be of no use. I will instruct him properly from the beginning.” The farmer insisted upon his son paying respects to his new teacher, and said, “You are a first-class instructor. My ancestors lived in this district of Huayin County, close to Mount Shaohua. This is the Shi family village, and contains about four hundred families of the surname Shi. My son takes interest in playing with lances and cudgels instead of doing farm work. When his mother remonstrated with him, he paid no heed and she became angry and died. I am unable to control him and do not know how much money he has spent. He engaged a man to teach him and also employed a workman to tattoo nine dragons on his body, so that the people about here call him “Shi Jin with nine dragons.” Drill Instructor, you have come here today and completed his training very well. I will amply reward you.”

Wang Jin began his lessons from that day and Shi Jin asked to be taught the eighteen subjects of athletics in detail. In a little over half a year he had mastered these: (1) use of the lance; (2) the long-handled mallet; (3) the bow; (4) the crossbow; (5) the jingal; (6) the iron whip; (7) the iron truncheon; (8) the two-edged sword; (9) the chain; (10) the hooks; (11) the axe; (12) the battle-axe; (13) the three-pronged spear; (14) the halberd; (15) the shield; (16) the cudgel; (17) the spear; (18) the rake.

He learned these one by one and became proficient.

Wang Jin thought that he could not stay there any longer although the conditions were suitable. One day he told them that he wished to leave. Shi Jin replied, “Master, you must not think of leaving; I will keep both you and your mother here till your dying days; will that not be better?” “Worthy sir, I have received many favors from you but I am afraid that Marshal Gao Qiu’s men may arrive and you will be implicated. I must go to Yanan Prefecture, where men are needed: there I can rest and settle.” Shi Jin spoke to his father and it was agreed that Wang Jin must stay until they had prepared a farewell feast. They presented him two rolls of silk and one hundred taels of silver.48 When he left, Shi Jin told one of his men to carry Wang Jin’s baggage and accompany him for ten li,49 where they parted with tears.

Drill Instructor Wang again shouldered up his load and mother and son traveled along the road to the western pass.

We will now leave Wang Jin and return with Shi Jin to his home. There he continued his drill. In the middle of the night he would practice for two hours, and during the day, ride his horse outside the village. In less than six months Shi Jin’s father died. He prepared a coffin and engaged Buddhist monks to conduct the usual memorial services for seven days. He also asked a Taoist priest to erect an altar; repeat the funeral services; pray for the safe passage of the soul to heaven; attend at the altar for ten days and select a lucky and fortunate time for the funeral and burial.

About four hundred members of the Shi clan came to the funeral in white mourning clothes and they buried the dead in the ancestral graveyard in the hills to the west of the village. After this there was no one at home to manage the property as Shi Jin only wanted to practice fencing.

Three or four months after the death of the farmer on a hot day in the sixth month Shi Jin was idling away his time. He placed a bedstead outside on the threshing floor, in the shadow of a willow tree, and took rest. A breeze came from the fir trees just opposite. He was enjoying the cool breeze, when all at once he saw a man stealthily spying. He shouted, “What are you doing, and who is there looking round this place?” As he said he rose and went to behind a tree to get a better view. He recognized that that man was Li Ji, the rabbit hunter. Shi Jin called, “Li Ji, what are you looking for in my village? Have you come as a spy?”

Li Ji stepped forward and said “Yes, sir, I want to find a man named Qiu Yilang to drink wine with him, but seeing you taking a siesta I dared not intrude.”

“Did you not previously come here selling game—and did I not pay you liberally? So why have you not been here lately with your game. You might think that I had no money.” Li Ji replied, “That’s not the case. Just now there is no game and therefore I did not come.”

“Stupid talk,” said Shi Jin. “Shaohua is a mountain of vast expanse and I do not believe that neither deer nor hare can be found there.” Li Ji answered, “You do not know that there is a band of robbers on the mountain, where they have erected a stronghold. They have collected about seven hundred armed men and over a hundred horses. The chief is a man named Zhu Wu, nicknamed “Intuitve Strategist,” and the second in command is Chen Da, nicknamed “Leaping Tiger,” the third in command is Yang Chun, nicknamed “White-speckled Snake.” These three leaders take to robbing houses; they have been officially denounced in Huayin County, and a reward of three thousand strings of cash has been offered for their capture. But who dare go to arrest them? Even we hunters dare not go to the mountain to shoot game, so how could I come here to sell it.”

“I have heard of those robbers,” said Shi Jin, “but did not know that they have made so much trouble. This being the case the people certainly dislike them. Li Ji, if you have any game in the future bring it here.”

Shi Jin thought this matter over. “These men will certainly come here to plunder.” He then told the farm laborers to select two fat buffaloes and kill them; and bring the best brew of the village. He sent invitations to all the Shi clan and upon arrival they seated themselves in order of seniority. Wine was served and Shi Jin then spoke to the audience, saying, “I have heard there are three robbers on Mount Shaohua, who have altogether about seven hundred followers, and they rob the people with violence. Sooner or later they will come and pillage our village. I now invite you here to discuss this matter—so that we may be prepared when they come. I will have a rattle sounded at my house when they arrive; and upon hearing this you must bring your arms to defend the village. If your families are attacked we will defend you.” All of them are agreed to what Shi Jin said. They then returned home and prepared their weapons. Shi Jin repaired the defenses of the village.

At Mount Shaohua, the three bandit chiefs were now holding a conference. The leader, Zhu Wu, the “Intuitve Strategist,” was a Dingyuan County man and could fight with a sword in each hand. He was clever in arranging plans for an attack. The second chief Chen Da was a Yecheng County man, and was skillful in the use of a steel lance while the third Yang Chun was a Xieliang County man and used a long sword.

When they were discussing, Zhu Wu said, “I have heard that there is a reward offered for anyone who can capture us, and I am really afraid that when the soldiers come we shall have a severe strugge with them; but we are short of food so we must take some for use here. We must collect a large stock of food on the mountain ready for the time when the soldiers attack us.”

Chen Da the “Leaping Tiger” agreed. “Let us go to Huayin County, and ask the people there to lend us some grain and we can see what they say.”

Yang Chun the “White-speckled Snake” remarked, “There is no need to go there; it would be better to go to Pucheng County. The chances are ten thousand to one, we shall not fail there.” Chen Da said, “There are very few people in Pucheng and very little money or grain there. It will be better to attack Huayin County. The folk there are wealthy and have abundance of grain.”

Yang Chun replied, “Elder brother, you do not know that if we attack Huayin County we must pass the village of the Shi clan where that dangerous fellow Shi Jin with nine dragons lives, and we must not provoke him. He will not let us pass.”

Chen Da said, “Younger brother, what a coward you are, you are even afraid to pass a village, so what can you do when you are opposed by soldiers?”

“Elder brother, you should not despise Shi Jin. He is hard to deal with.”

“I have already heard that he is very brave and is extremely capable,” said Zhu Wu. “Younger brother, do not go.”

Chen Da would not change his mind, and said, “You two, shut up! Do not increase the other man’s determination and reduce our own courage. He is only one man and has not three heads or six arms.” He then called to his armed followers, “Get my horse ready! I will attack the Shi clan village, and afterwards seize Huayin County.”

Zhu Wu remonstrated with him but Chen Da did not listen. He put on his armor and mounted his horse: he then mustered about one hundred fifty armed brigands down the mountain and went with gongs and drums sounding.

The brigands’ approach was duly reported to Shi Jin, who instantly had the rattles sounded and quickly all the men assembled in arms. Shi Jin wore a towel round his head and was equipped with red mail over an embroidered black wadded coat. On his feet were embroidered green boots and round his waist a leather belt. In front and behind were round metal plates. He carried a bow with quiver full of arrows. In his hand he held a double-edged sword with three sharp spikes at the end and four holes with eight rings attached. He was mounted on a roan horse. Before him were forty of his retainers while behind were ninety of the farm laborers. With a combined shout they all moved toward the north of the village. The brigands halted. Shi Jin saw that Chen Da was in front of his men, wearing a red cap with a concave top, and with iron-armor covered with gilt, wadded red clothing, thick army boots and a plaited waistbelt. He rode a white horse and carried a three-pronged halberd which was about ten feet long. As the two leaders met, the men raised a loud shout. Chen Da paid his respect to Shi Jin by rising in his stirrups.

Shi Jin spoke in a loud voice, “You kill people, set places on fire, rob with violence; your crimes fill the heavens, and you are all deserving of death. You ought to have ears; how dare you come to pouch the tiger’s litter!”

Chen Da replied from his horse, “We are short of grain at our mountain fortress and are going to borrow some grain at Huayin County. We have taken a short cut by passing your honorable village—but we will not disturb even a blade of grass here. Let us pass and on our return we will thank you.” “Nonsense,” replied Shi Jin, “I am the head of this village and I must arrest you. If I don’t do so, I shall be implicated and the magistrate will blame me.” “Within the four seas all men are brothers, so let us use your road,” said Chen Da.

“What meaningless talk!” said Shi Jin. “Even if I am willing, but there is one who is not, so you must have his consent before you pass.”

“You are a hero. Tell me whom I must ask?” replied Chen Da.

“You can ask the sword in my hand and if it is willing then you can pass,” said Shi Jin.

Chen Da spoke angrily, “You are trying to deceive me, but you should not be presumptuous.” Shi Jin was also angry, and brandishing his sword, he rode forward to fight.

Chen Da whipped his horse, thrust forward his three-pronged halberd, and advanced to meet Shi Jin. They fought for some time. Then Shi Jin thought of a plan, and purposely allowed Chen Da to thrust in his halberd, he parried the blow by moving to one side, as Chen Da lunged forward. With a dexterous turn of the arm he caught Chen Da and pulled him out of his saddle, then he took hold of his plaited waistbelt and threw him to the ground. The horse galloped away like a gust of wind. Shi Jin told his servants to bind Chen Da, and the band of robbers scattered. Shi Jin returned to his house and bound Chen Da to a pillar in the hall to wait until he captured the other robber chiefs so as to send them together to the magistrate’s yamen to be dealt with. He gave wine to all the villagers and then dismissed them. Everyone applauded him and said, “You, sir, are a hero.”

We will not say anything more about the feast at the Shi clan village, but let us consider the anxiety of Zhu Wu and Yang Chun in their mountain stronghold. They had sent many soldiers to make inquiries, and on the way they met the men returning with the riderless horse. The defeated men said, “Bad luck! Our elder brother’s life is in danger.”

Upon reaching the stronghold they gave details of the fight, saying, “Shi Jin was a great hero.”

“Shall we risk our lives in rescuing him?” asked Yang Chun.

“We cannot do that,” replied Zhu Wu. “The disaster is of his own making. How can we defeat Shi Jin? I have a desperate plan but if we fail to rescue Chen Da, that will be the end of all of us.” Zhu Wu whispered his plan. Yang Chun said, “Good! Let us go without delay.”

Now in the village Shi Jin’s anger had not abated when a laborer rushed in and reported that the other robber chiefs had come. Shi Jin said, “I will send them both to the magistrate. Bring me my horse.”

The rattle was sounded and the same crowd of armed men assembled. He was just on the point of leaving when he saw the two robber chiefs walking to the gate. They both knelt down and cried. Shi Jin dismounted and shouted, “What have you to say?” Zhu Wu crying, answered, “We shall be arrested and tried, and cannot live as bandits on the mountains. Once we took a vow that we would die on the same day. Although we have not the heroism of Guan Gong, Zhang Fei, and Liu Bei, yet we have the same objects in mind.50 Today our brother Chen Da did not listen to our advice, but he unintentionally offended your dignity. You, hero, have already arrested him at your noble village. As we have no alternative we come only to beseech you to put us to death together. We hope that you, hero, will send us three men to the magistrate, and ask for a reward. We swear that we shall not feel sorrow at that; we are entirely in your hands and wish to die.”

Shi Jin heard this, and thought that they were brave. If he sent them to the magistrate and requested a reward, then all heroes would be ashamed of him for not being a brave man. The ancients said, “The tiger does not eat the flesh of a tiger.” So he said to these men, “Come inside.” They were not afraid and followed Shi Jin into the hall, where they knelt and asked him to bind them. Shi Jin told them several times to rise but they declined to do so. He thought, “Intelligent people like intelligence in others, and so good folk recognize the good in others.” He said, “As your bravery is so great, I cannot send you to the magistrate. How will it be if I release Chen Da?”

“We do not wish to implicate you,” said Zhu Wu. “It will be better for you to ask for the reward.” “How can I do that?” said Shi Jin. “Are you willing to eat my food and drink wine?”

“We are not even afraid of death so how can we be afraid of meat and drink?”

Shi Jin was much pleased at this, and released Chen Da. He invited all three to dine with him, and they expressed their thanks for his great benevolence. After drinking several cups of wine they departed. As a token of thankfulness the three brigand chiefs got together thirty taels of gold in ingots, which was sent in a dark moonless night by two of their men, to Shi Jin. When the bandits arrived at the farm Shi Jin came to the gate to inquire what they wanted, and they presented the gold and asked him to accept the same. At first Shi Jin refused to accept the gift but he saw that the intention was good so he accepted the gold, and then ordered a servant to give the men refreshments. When they departed he gave them some small pieces of silver for themselves. A fortnight afterwards the bandit leaders took a big jewel which they had looted sometime before, and sent it to Shi Jin who accepted it. He saw that they were grateful for his mercy so he had three gowns made with red embroidered silk and sent these with some wine and three fat roasted sheep to the brigands, and his steward Wang the Fourth was put in charge of this matter. Shi Jin and the brigands became very friendly, and were frequently giving each other presents.

On the fifteenth day of the eighth month, Shi Jin sent Wang the Fourth with an invitation for a banquet and the bandit chiefs wrote a reply, accepting the invitation.51 After a few cups of wine Wang the Fourth left, but on his way down the mountain he met some brigands who took him to an inn where he drank more wine. When he left, he was slightly drunk, and staggered along. After going about three li he came to a forest which he entered and lay down in the long grass to sleep. The hunter, Li Ji came to that spot to look for hares, and recognizing Wang the Fourth he attempted to raise him up, but he could not do so. In doing this some silver fell out from Wang the Fourth’s girdle which made Li Ji meditate, “This man is drunk, but where did the money come from? Why should I not take some?” It was now the opportunity for the baneful forces to come together, so unexpected events ensued naturally. He unloosened Wang the Fourth’s girdle, and upon shaking it, the sealed reply from the bandits fell out. He opened that, and recognized the names of the brigand chiefs. “Here is my luck. A fortune teller told me that I should have great fortune and here it is. A reward is offered for their arrest, and perhaps I can get something for this letter also.” So he took the silver, and the letter, and went to report the matter to the officials at Huayin County.

When Wang the Fourth awoke that evening, the moon was shining through the trees. He found his girdle in the grass, but the silver and the letter were missing. He felt greatly annoyed and thought the matter over. He thought if he said that he had lost the letter Shi Jin would probably dismiss him, so at last he decided to say that the invitation had been accepted, but there was no written reply. He told this to Shi Jin who asked why he had been so long in returning, and he explained that the bandits had pressed him to stay, drinking wine for half the night.

On the day appointed Shi Jin had a banquet prepared, and the three bandit leaders duly arrived with about five armed men. They took their seats. But when they had drunk much wine there was a loud noise and much torchlight outside the gate. Shi Jin was startled, and jumping up told the brigands to keep their seats while he went to see what had happened. He told the servants not to open the gate, and putting a ladder against the wall he looked over. He saw that the county police inspector was on a horse, two constables and about four hundred soldiers surrounded the farm. He returned and told the bandits that the soldiers had come evidently to arrest them.

Men concealed in the deep of reeds,

Prepared their boats among the lotus leaves.

Soldiers sent to capture them,

Did only make them intimate.

We will now relate how the brigands made their escape.

Footnote

44 A Prefecture was a level of government incorporating a number of counties, centered on a prefectural capital city or town. As a general rule, the use of “prefecture” or “county” in this edition will refer to the geographic area, which may include that administrative level’s city or town eg “Yanan Prefecture.” A specific reference to the city or town itself will use the specific name, eg “Yanan.”

45 A common appellation, indicating a person’s place in the family hierarchy, in this case, the second son of the Gao family.

46 A Yamen was the office of a government official or bureaucracy.

47 The Chinese currency of a square holed coin.

48 “Tael” was an English expression of the Chinese measure of weight, the “liang,” approximating an ounce.

49 Li is the Chinese distance equivalent of a mile.

50 The heroes from the historical novel Romance of the Three Kingdoms, who swore an oath of brotherhood.

51 The Mid-Autumn Festival falls on the 15th day of the 8th month in the Chinese lunar calendar.