廣弘明集 19.33

19.33

I have examined your second petition. You still desire that I deliver a lecture, and fully understand your sentiments. Yet it is no different from my previous reply. The frontiers have not submitted, and the state treasuries are largely deficient. Such matters constantly require planning and investigation, and the remaining complex details cannot be stated in full. The whole realm is not at peace; those who feed on wild herbs are numerous, while submissions and surrenders follow in succession. Rewards and distributions have not been comprehensive; those who harbor resentment are many, and those who cherish gratitude are few. In the Han dynasty, when the empire was unified, Jia Yi nevertheless shed bitter tears; under the Wei house, when there was no external threat, Yang Fu still spoke of sorrow. How much more so now, when dependable ministers of the claws and fangs, of the belly and heart, and also gentlemen who deliberate on the Dao within the inner tent [are troubled]? The four hearings are not open, and the roads to the eight quarters are blocked. Though kings and marquises are many, the protective screen of the city cannot be relied upon. Vigilant by day and fearful by night, it is like treading upon frosted blades; to drive six horses with rotten reins is hardly an adequate comparison. Does not the *Book of Odes* say: 'Those who know me say my heart is sorrowful; those who do not know me say, what am I seeking?' The present is truly not a time for discussion. If you insist on having it so, you may naturally order the monks to speak on the doctrine within Chongyun Hall. Imperial Edict.