Book II. Decade of Shêng Min: VII. Chiung Cho

VII The Chiung Cho; allusive. The most unlikely things may by human ingenuity be made useful; how much more should a sovereign fulfill the duties of his position! 1Bring water from the distant pool, And let it settle in a jar. Millet or rice ’twill steam—such use May come from things that paltry are. You are our happy, courteous king; On you a noble duty lies. Father and mother, joined in one, With all the people sympathize! 2Bring water from the distant pool, And let it settle in a jar. A spirit vase ’twill wash;—such use May come from things that paltry are. You are our happy, courteous king, Born subject to a noble law. Like center to which all should turn, So you the people ever draw. p. 376 3Bring water from the distant pool, And let it settle in a jar. All things ’twill serve to cleanse;—such use May come from things that paltry are. You are our happy, courteous king, Set to fulfill a noble end. The center in which all have rest, The people's hearts to you should tend.