Page 293 - 《孟子》（一）中·英对照版

公
孙
丑
下

in Xue, 1,200 taels were sent, which you likewise
accepted. If your declining to accept the gift in the
first case was right, your accepting it in the latter
cases was wrong. If your accepting it in the latter
cases was right, your declining to do so in the first
case was wrong. You must accept, Master, one of
these alternatives.”

Mencius said, “I did right in all the cases.
When I was in Song, I was about to take a long
journey. Travellers must be provided with what is
necessary for their expenses. The prince’s message
was, ‘A present against travelling-expenses.’ Why
should I have declined the gift? When I was in
Xue, I was apprehensive for my safety, and taking
measures for my protection. The message was, ‘I
have heard that you are taking measures to protect
yourself, and send this to help you in procuring
arms.’ Why should I have declined the gift? But
when I was in Qi, I had no occasion for money. To

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