The Luh Yueh

When the sixth month had come, the turmoil of war
Burst suddenly forth, and each quick-harnessed car
Stood ready to move, with its steeds keen and strong,
While heavier cars bore the baggage along.
Fierce blazing, the Heen-yun had mustered their men;
No recreant there, all was urgency then.
The king gave the word; we were mustered and gone,
To rescue from foemen the kingdom and throne.

Well matched in their strength were the horses, and
And trained to the reins, as they tighten or slack.
Ere the sixth month was o’er, the field we could take ;
No more preparation we needed to make.
With all our accoutrements fully complete,
Each day thirty le went our hurrying feet.
The king gave the word ; we were mustered and gone,
With courage all ardent to help Heaven’s son.

Long and stout were the steeds, attached to each car,
With broad heads that scented the battle afar.
We smote the Heen-yun, and great merit obtained,
Nor flagged in our efforts till triumph was gained.
The eye of our leader was careful and stern,
Discharging his service, bright glory to earn;
Determined the war to such issue to bring,
As would firmly establish the throne of the king.

For themselves badly judging, the Heen-yun go,
Bold to occupy Tseaou, and seize upon Hwoh.
Haou and Fang they o’erran, still issuing forth,
Till, crossing the King, they pressed on to the north.
Our flags showed the falcons in blazonry bright,
And gaily their streamers all fluttered in white.
Ten chariots of war, all imposing and strong,
Led proudly the van of our conquering throng.

The workmen had laboured to perfect each car,
Well balanced, before and behind, for the war.
Its four steeds were mighty, unmatched in their strain,
And yielding at once to each touch of the rein.
We smote the Heen-yun; ay, we conquered, and then
We pursued them in flight to the far Tae-yuen.
As in peace, so in war, our Keih-foo is great,
Affording a pattern to all in each State.

And now at the banquet, forgotten all care,
He feasts with his friends, feeling happiness rare.
The tedious marches are all over now,—
The marches we travelled, returning from Haou.
To his friends the bright spirits his welcome convey ;
Minced carp and roast turtle the mats all display.
And who are the guests? There above every other
Sits Chang Chung, renowned as a son and a brother.