鐔津文集 17.32

17.32

Where celestial majesty does not reach, / Weapons of war stir the frontier lands. / Generals exert their fierce power, / And the forces of heroes rise in their wake. / In great numbers they march out of Yumen Pass, / Solemn amidst the autumn colors. / White horses brave yellow clouds; / Clear frost sharpens severe commands. / Young and strong boys of the Feathered Forest, / Strive for capability, but do not rejoice too much! / Fondness for warfare is not the ruler's intent; / The use of arms is only when there is no other choice. / Send word to the Flying General: / His wondrous stratagems must be matchless. / Let your intent be to repay the ruler's favor; / How could one die for mere gold? / When a real man dedicates his life to the state, / Resolute and noble, he should be like this! / Rather let the Grand Historian write it down / Than lightly mock Master Lu Lian.