鐔津文集 10.18

10.18

The above-named [Qisong] states: Now I have humbly received the exalted command of the Prefect, Academician of the Duanming Hall and Vice Minister, who specially dispatched Yamen-attendant Xu Xin and others to convey from afar a petition, an invitation, and four warrants directly to Runzhou, inviting and summoning me to assume the abbotship of Jinghui Chan Cloister. On the twentieth of this month, at Dengyun Chan Monastery, I reverently received your esteemed directive. I humbly reflect that my Dao and virtue are empty and meager, and my capacity and insight shallow and superficial; to be included in this great bestowal is truly an undeserved presumption. Yet the teachings and the Dharma have fallen into decline, and the monastics are slack and indolent. This is surely because you, Vice Minister, mindful of the Western Sage's intention of entrustment, specially wish to revive the decadent ways, generously gathering up my mediocre reputation to bestow upon me the master's seat. The text of the invitation is gracious and elegant, its grand encouragement earnest and weighty. I fear only that I am unequal to what you have advanced and will bring blemish to your brilliance. Both ashamed and fortunate, my humble feelings are overcome with the utmost trepidation and gratitude. I respectfully prepare this memorial to offer my thanks.