Book I. Decade of Lu Ming: I. Lu Ming

PART II MINOR ODES OF THE KINGDOM Book I. Decade of Lu Ming I The Lu Ming; allusive. A festal ode, sung at entertainments to the king's ministers, and guests from the feudal states. 1With sounds of happiness the deer Browse on the celery of the meads. A nobler feast is furnished here, With guests renowned for noble deeds. The lutes are struck; the organ blows, Till all its tongues in movement heave. Each basket loaded stands, and shows The precious gifts the guests receive. They love me, and my mind will teach, How duty's highest aim to reach. p. 183 2With sounds of happiness the deer The southernwood crop in the meads. What noble guests surround me here, Distinguished for their worthy deeds! From them my people learn to fly Whate’er is mean; to chiefs they give A model and a pattern high;— They show the life they ought to live. Then fill their cups with spirits rare, Till each the banquet's joy shall share. 3With sounds of happiness the deer The salsola crop in the fields. What noble guests surround me here! Each lute for them its music yields. Sound, sound the lutes, or great or small, The joy harmonious to prolong; And with my spirits rich crown all The cups to cheer the festive throng. Let each retire with gladdened heart, In his own sphere to play his part.