Page 67 - 《大学》中·英对照版

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is he and dignified! How majestic and distinguished!
Our elegant and accomplished prince never can
be forgotten.” That expression—“As we cut and
then file” indicates the work of learning. “As we
chisel and then grind” indicates that of self-culture.
“How grave is he and dignified!” indicates the
feeling of cautious reverence. “How commanding
and distinguished!” indicates an awe-inspiring
deportment. “Our elegant and accomplished prince
never can be forgotten” indicates how, when virtue is
complete and excellence extreme, the people cannot
forget them.

In the Book of Poetry, it is said, “Ah! the former
kings are not forgotten.” Future princes deem
worthy what they deemed worthy, and love what
they loved. The common people delight in what
delighted them, and are benefited by their beneficial
arrangements. It is on this account that the former
kings, after they have quitted the world, are not

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