Page 144 - 《孟子》（三）中·英对照版

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子

accept such support from any of the princes is not in
accordance with propriety.”

Wan Zhang said, “If the prince sends him a
present of grain, for instance, does he accept it?”

“He accepts it,” answered Mencius.
“On what principle of righteousness does he
accept it?”
“Why—the prince ought to assist the people in
their necessities.”
Wan Zhang pursued, “Why is it that the
scholar will thus accept the prince’s help, but will
not accept his pay?”
The answer was, “He does not presume to do
so.”
Wan Zhang said, “I venture to ask why he does
not presume to do so.”
Mencius said, “Even the keepers of the gates,
with their watchmen’s sticks, have their regular
offices for which they can take their support from

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