Book Xiv. The Odes Of Ts'ao. Ii. Hou Jen

*
"The Book of Poetry", tr. by James Legge, [1876],

p. 164

Ii

The "Hou Jn;" allusive and metaphorical. Lament over the favor shown to worthless officers at the court of Ts'ao. And the discountenance of good men.

1Each warden of the gates appears,

With lancers and with halberdiers,

As well befits his place;

But these three hundred men, who shine

Grand in their red knee covers fine,

Only the court disgrace.

2Like pelicans, upon the dam

Which stand, and there their pouches cram,

Unwet the while their wings,

Are those who their rich dress display,

But no befitting service pay,

Intent on meanest things.

3Like pelicans which eager watch

Upon the dam, their prey to catch,

And spare to wet the beak,

Are those who richest favors share,

But take no part in toil or care,

Nor the state's welfare seek. p. 165

4Like grass luxuriant on its side,

While morning mists the south hill hide,

These creatures seem to grow;

But men of worth, like virtuous maid,

Lovely but poor, denied wealth's aid,

No recognition know.