第七十三回

第七十三回 玄德进位汉中王 云长攻拔襄阳郡

却说曹操退兵至斜谷，孔明料他必弃汉中而走，故差马超等诸将，分兵十数路，不时攻劫。因此操不能久住，又被魏延射了一箭，急急班师，三军锐气堕尽。前队才行，两下火起，乃是马超伏兵追赶。曹兵人人丧胆。操令军士急行，晓夜奔走无停，直至京兆，方始安心。

且说玄德命刘封、孟达、王平等，攻取上庸诸郡，申耽等闻操已弃汉中而走，遂皆投降。玄德安民已定，大赏三军，人心大悦。于是众将皆有推尊玄德为帝之心，未敢径启，却来禀告诸葛军师。孔明曰：“吾意已有定夺了。”随引法正等入见玄德，曰：“今曹操专权，百姓无主。主公仁义著于天下，今已抚有两川之地，可以应天顺人，即皇帝位，名正言顺，以讨国贼。事不宜迟，便请择吉。”玄德大惊曰：“军师之言差矣。刘备虽然汉之宗室，乃臣子也，若为此事，是反汉矣。”孔明曰：“非也。方今天下分崩，英雄并起，各霸一方，四海才德之士，舍死亡生而事其上者，皆欲攀龙附凤，建立功名也。今主公避嫌守义，恐失众人之望。愿主公熟思之。”玄德曰：“要吾僭居尊位，吾必不敢，可再商议长策。”诸将齐言曰：“主公若只推却，众心解矣。”孔明曰：“主公平生以义为本，未肯便称尊号。今有荆襄、两川之地，可暂为汉中王。”玄德曰：“汝等虽欲尊吾为王，不得天子明诏，是僭也。”孔明曰：“今宜从权，不可拘执常理。”张飞大叫曰：“异姓之人，皆欲为君，何况哥哥乃汉朝宗派！莫说汉中王，就称皇帝，有何不可！”玄德叱曰：“汝勿多言！”孔明曰：“主公宜从权变，先进位汉中王，然后表奏天子，未为迟也。”

玄德再三推辞不过，只得依允。建安二十四年秋七月，筑坛于沔阳，方圆九里，分布五方，各设旌旗仪仗，群臣皆依次序排列。许靖、法正请玄德登坛，进冠冕玺绶讫，面南而坐，受文武官员拜贺为汉中王。子刘禅，立为王世子。封许靖为太傅，法正为尚书令，诸葛亮为军师，总理军国重事。封关羽、张飞、赵云、马超、黄忠为五虎大将，魏延为汉中太守。其馀各拟功勋定爵。

玄德既为汉中王，遂修表一道，差人赍赴许都。表曰：

备以具臣之才，荷上将之任，总督三军，奉辞于外；不能扫除寇难，靖匡王室，久使陛下圣教陵迟，六合之内，否而未泰：惟忧反侧，疢如疾首。

曩者董卓，伪为乱阶。自是之后，群凶纵横，残剥海内。赖陛下圣德威临，人臣同应，或忠义奋讨，或上天降罚，暴逆并殪，以渐冰消。惟独曹操，久未枭除，侵擅国权，恣心极乱。臣昔与车骑将军董承，图谋讨操，机事不密，承见陷害。臣播越失据，忠义不果，遂得使操穷凶极逆，主后戮杀，皇子鸩害。虽纠合同盟，念在奋力，懦弱不武，历年未效。常恐殒没，辜负国恩，寤寐永叹，夕惕若厉。

今臣群僚以为：在昔《虞书》，敦叙九族，庶明励翼，帝王相传，此道不废。周监二代，并建诸姬，实赖晋、郑夹辅之力。高祖龙兴，尊王子弟，大启九国，卒斩诸吕，以安大宗。今操恶直丑正，实繁有徒，包藏祸心，篡盗已显。既宗室微弱，帝族无位，斟酌古式，依假权宜：上臣为大司马、汉中王。

臣伏自三省：受国厚恩，荷任一方，陈力未效，所获已过，不宜复忝高位，以重罪谤。群僚见逼，迫臣以义。臣退惟寇贼不枭，国难未已，宗庙倾危，社稷将坠：诚臣忧心碎首之日。若应权通变，以宁静圣朝，虽赴水火，所不得辞：辄顺众议，拜受印玺，以崇国威。

仰惟爵号，位高宠厚；俯思报效，忧深责重：惊怖惕息，如临于谷。敢不尽力输诚，奖励六师，率齐群义，应天顺时，以宁社稷。谨拜表以闻。

表到许都，曹操在邺郡闻知玄德自立汉中王，大怒曰：“织席小儿，安敢如此！吾誓灭之！”即时传令，尽起倾国之兵，赴两川与汉中王决雌雄。一人出班谏曰：“大王不可因一时之怒，亲劳车驾远征。臣有一计，不须张弓只箭，令刘备在蜀自受其祸。待其兵衰力尽，只须一将往征之，便可成功。”操视其人，乃司马懿也。操喜问曰：“仲达有何高见？”懿曰：“江东孙权，以妹嫁刘备，而又乘间窃取回去；刘备又据占荆州不还：彼此俱有切齿之恨。今可差一舌辩之士，赍书往说孙权，使兴兵取荆州，刘备必发两川之兵以救荆州。那时大王兴兵去取汉川，令刘备首尾不能相救，势必危矣。”

操大喜，即修书令满宠为使，星夜投江东来见孙权。权知满宠到，遂与谋士商议。张昭进曰：“魏与吴本无仇，前因听诸葛之说词，致两家连年征战不息，生灵遭其涂炭。今满伯宁来，必有讲和之意，可以礼接之。”权依其言，令众谋士接满宠入城相见。礼毕，权以宾礼待宠。宠呈上操书，曰：“吴、魏自来无仇，皆因刘备之故，致生衅隙。魏王差某到此，约将军攻取荆州，魏王以兵临汉川，首尾夹击。破刘之后，共分疆土，誓不相侵。”孙权览书毕，设筵相待满宠，送归馆舍安歇。

权与众谋士商议。顾雍曰：“虽是说词，其中有理。今可一面送满宠回，约会曹操，首尾相击，一面使人过江探云长动静，方可行事。”诸葛瑾曰：“某闻云长自到荆州，刘备娶与妻室，先生一子，次生一女。其女尚幼，未许字人，某愿往与主公世子求婚。若云长肯许，即与云长计议共破曹操，若云长不肯，然后助曹取荆州。”孙权用其谋，先送满宠回许都，却遣诸葛瑾为使，投荆州来。入城见云长，礼毕，云长曰：“子瑜此来何意？”瑾曰：“特来求结两家之好。吾主吴侯有一子，甚聪明，闻将军有一女，特来求亲。两家结好，并力破曹。此诚美事，请君侯思之。”云长勃然大怒曰：“吾虎女安肯嫁犬子乎！不看汝弟之面，立斩汝首！再休多言！”遂唤左右逐出。瑾抱头鼠窜，回见吴侯，不敢隐匿，遂以实告。权大怒曰：“何太无礼耶！”便唤张昭等文武官员，商议取荆州之策。步骘曰：“曹操久欲篡汉，所惧者刘备也。今遣使来令吴兴兵吞蜀，此嫁祸于吴也。”权曰：“孤亦欲取荆州久矣。”骘曰：“今曹仁现屯兵于襄阳、樊城，又无长江之险，旱路可取荆州，如何不取，却令主公动兵？只此便见其心。主公可遣使去许都见操，令曹仁旱路先起兵取荆州，云长必掣荆州之兵而取樊城。若云长一动，主公可遣一将，暗取荆州，一举可得矣。”权从其议，即时遣使过江，上书曹操，陈说此事。操大喜，发付使者先回，随遣满宠往樊城助曹仁，为参谋官，商议动兵，一面驰檄东吴，令领兵水路接应，以取荆州。

却说汉中王令魏延总督军马，守御东川。遂引百官回成都，差官起造宫庭，又置馆舍，自成都至白水，共建四百馀处馆舍亭邮。广积粮草，多造军器，以图进取中原。细作人探听得曹操结连东吴，欲取荆州，即飞报入蜀。汉中王忙请孔明商议，孔明曰：“某已料曹操必有此谋。然吴中谋士极多，必教操令曹仁先兴兵矣。”汉中王曰：“似此如之奈何？”孔明曰：“可差使命就送官诰与云长，令先起兵取樊城，使敌军胆寒，自然瓦解矣。”汉中王大喜，即差前部司马费诗为使，赍捧诰命投荆州来。云长出郭，迎接入城。至公廨礼毕，云长问曰：“汉中王封我何爵？”诗曰：“‘五虎大将’之首。”云长问：“那五虎将？”诗曰：“关、张、赵、马、黄是也。”云长怒曰：“翼德吾弟也；孟起世代名家；子龙久随吾兄，即吾弟也：位与吾相并，可也。黄忠何等人，敢与吾同列？大丈夫终不与老卒为伍！”遂不肯受印。诗笑曰：“将军差矣。昔萧何、曹参与高祖同举大事，最为亲近，而韩信乃楚之亡将也，然信位为王，居萧、曹之上，未闻萧、曹以此为怨。今汉中王虽有‘五虎将’之封，而与将军有兄弟之义，视同一体。将军即汉中王，汉中王即将军也。岂与诸人等哉？将军受汉中王厚恩，当与同休戚、共祸福，不宜计较官号之高下。愿将军熟思之。”云长大悟，乃再拜曰：“某之不明，非足下见教，几误大事。”即拜受印绶。

费诗方出王旨，令云长领兵取樊城。云长领命，即时便差傅士仁、糜芳二人为先锋，先引一军于荆州城外屯扎，一面设宴城中，款待费诗。饮至二更，忽报城外寨中火起。云长急披挂上马，出城看时，乃是傅士仁、糜芳饮酒，帐后遗火，烧着火炮，满营撼动，把军器粮草，尽皆烧毁。云长引兵救扑，至四更方才火灭。云长入城，召傅士仁、糜芳责之曰：“吾令汝二人作先锋，不曾出师，先将许多军器粮草烧毁，火炮打死本部军人。如此误事，要你二人何用！”叱令斩之。费诗告曰：“未曾出师，先斩大将，于军不利。可暂免其罪。”云长怒气不息，叱二人曰：“吾不看费司马之面，必斩汝二人之首！”乃唤武士各杖四十，摘去先锋印绶，罚糜芳守南郡，傅士仁守公安，且曰：“若吾得胜回来之日，稍有差池，二罪俱罚！”二人满面差惭，喏喏而去。云长便令廖化为先锋，关平为副将，自总中军，马良、伊籍为参谋，一同征进。先是，有胡华之子胡班，到荆州来投降关公，公念其旧日相救之情，甚爱之，令随费诗入川，见汉中王受爵。费诗辞别关公，带了胡班，自回蜀中去了。

且说关公是日祭了“帅”字大旗，假寐于帐中。忽见一猪，其大如牛，浑身黑色，奔入帐中，径咬云长之足。云长大怒，急拔剑斩之，声如裂帛，霎然惊觉，乃是一梦。便觉左足阴阴疼痛，心中大疑。唤关平至，以梦告之。平对曰：“猪亦有龙象。龙附足，乃升腾之意，不必疑忌。”云长聚多官于帐下，告以梦兆。或言吉祥者，或言不祥者，众论不一。云长曰：“吾大丈夫年近六旬，即死何憾！”正言间，蜀使至，传汉中王旨，拜云长为前将军，假节钺，都督荆襄九郡事。云长受命讫，众官拜贺曰：“此足见猪龙之瑞也。”于是云长坦然不疑，遂起兵奔襄阳大路而来。

曹仁正在城中，忽报云长自领兵来。仁大惊，欲坚守不出，副将翟元曰：“今魏王令将军约会东吴取荆州，今彼自来，是送死也，何故避之？”参谋满宠谏曰：“吾素知云长勇而有谋，未可轻敌。不如坚守，乃为上策。”骁将夏侯存曰：“此书生之言耳。岂不闻‘水来土掩，将至兵迎’？我军以逸待劳，自可取胜。”曹仁从其言，令满宠守樊城，自领兵来迎云长。云长知曹兵来，唤关平、廖化二将，受计而往。与曹兵两阵对圆，廖化出马搦战，翟元出迎。二将战不多时，化诈败，拨马便走，翟元从后追杀，荆州兵退二十里。次日，又来搦战，夏侯存、翟元一齐出迎，荆州兵又败，又追杀二十馀里。忽听得背后喊声大震，鼓角齐鸣，曹仁急命前军速回，背后关平、廖化杀来，曹兵大乱。曹仁知是中计，先掣一军飞奔襄阳，离城数里，前面绣旗招，云长勒马横刀，拦住去路。曹仁胆战心惊，不敢交锋，望襄阳斜路而走，云长不赶。须臾，夏侯存军至，见了云长，大怒，便与云长交锋，只一合，被云长砍死。翟元便走，被关平赶上，一刀斩之。乘势追杀，曹兵大半死于襄江之中。曹仁退守樊城。

云长得了襄阳，赏军抚民。随军司马王甫曰：“将军一鼓而下襄阳，曹兵虽然丧胆，然以愚意论之，今东吴吕蒙屯兵陆口，常有吞并荆州之意，倘率兵径取荆州，如之奈何？”云长曰：“吾亦念及此。汝便可提调此事：去沿江上下，或二十里，或三十里，选高阜处置一烽火台，每台用五十军守之。倘吴兵渡江，夜则明火，昼则举烟为号，吾当亲往击之。”王甫曰：“糜芳、傅士仁守二隘口，恐不竭力，必须再得一人以总督荆州。”云长曰：“吾已差治中潘濬守之，有何虑焉？”甫曰：“潘濬平生多忌而好利，不可任用。可差军前都督粮料官赵累代之。赵累为人忠诚廉直，若用此人，万无一失。”云长曰：“吾素知潘濬为人。今既差定，不必更改。赵累现掌粮料，亦是重事。汝勿多疑，只与我筑烽火台去。”王甫怏怏拜辞而行。云长令关平准备船只渡襄江，攻打樊城。

却说曹仁折了二将，退守樊城，谓满宠曰：“不听公言，兵败将亡，失却襄阳，如之奈何？”宠曰：“云长虎将，足智多谋，不可轻敌，只宜坚守。”正言间，人报云长渡江而来，攻打樊城。仁大惊。宠曰：“只宜坚守。”部将吕常奋然曰：“某乞兵数千，愿当来军于襄江之内。”宠谏曰：“不可。”吕常怒曰：“据汝等文官之言，只宜坚守，何能退敌？岂不闻兵法云：‘军半渡可击。’今云长军半渡襄江，何不击之？若兵临城下，将至壕边，急难抵当矣。”仁即与兵二千，令吕常出樊城迎战。吕常来至江口，只见前面绣旗开处，云长横刀出马。吕常却欲来迎，后面众军见云长神威凛凛，不战先走，吕常喝止不住。云长混杀过来，曹兵大败，马步军折其大半，残败军奔入樊城。曹仁急差人求救，使命星夜至长安，将书呈上曹操，言：“云长破了襄阳，现围樊城甚急。望拨大将前来救援。”曹操指班部内一人而言曰：“汝可去解樊城之围。”其人应声而出。众视之，乃于禁也。禁曰：“某求一将作先锋，领兵同去。”操又问众人曰：“谁敢作先锋？”一人奋然出曰：“某愿施犬马之劳，生擒关某，献于麾下。”操观之大喜。正是：未见东吴来伺隙，先看北魏又添兵。未知此人是谁，且看下文分解。

CHAPTER 73. Liu Bei Becomes Prince Of Hanzhong; Guan Yu Attacks Xiangyang.

When Cao Cao retired to the Xie Valley, Zhuge Liang considered it to mean the abandonment of his attempt to acquire possession of Hanzhong, and he sent out several parties to harass and hasten his retreat by guerrilla attacks. For this reason the retreating army had to keep on the move. Beside, Cao Cao was suffering from his wound, and marched as hurriedly as possible. But it was a dejected army, when the leading legions encountered fire on both flanks, which had been raised by troops placed in ambush while Ma Chao's main force kept driving the army before it. Every one in the Cao Cao army was dispirited, and there was no more courage in them. They pressed forward day and night alike without halting to rest. It was only after reaching Jingzhao that they had some repose.

Then Liu Bei sent Liu Feng, Meng Da, and Wang Ping to take Shangyong. The Commander of the city, Shen Dan, and his colleagues, knowing that Cao Cao had retreated, offered their submission. After confidence had been restored among the people, Liu Bei rewarded his army generously, and they were all joyful.

It was after this that the general body of the officers decided to urge Liu Bei to assume the title of “Emperor,” but they dared not tell him so. However, they sent up a petition to Zhuge Liang, who replied that he had already decided on this course. So he and Fa Zheng headed a deputation that went in to see their lord.

They said, “Now that Cao Cao really holds the reins of authority, the people are without a true sovereign. Our lord, your kindness and sense of justice have spread throughout the empire. You have restored peace over the two Lands of Rivers, and your becoming an emperor would be according to God's will and the desire of the people. Then by right and title you could destroy rebels. This matter should not be delayed, and we pray you choose the auspicious day.”

But Liu Bei evinced great surprise, and replied, “Your words, O Instructor of the Army, are wrong. Although I am of the imperial house, yet I am but a minister; and to do this thing would be rebellion against Han.”

Zhuge Liang replied, “Not so. Today the empire is riven, and many of the bolder spirits have seized upon and claim the rule of various portions. The talented of the empire and the virtuous among officers, who have risked death and lost their lives in serving those above them, all desire to have the opportunity of serving a true emperor and doing service for a true throne. Now, if you insist on modestly maintaining your righteous way, I fear that you will lose popular support. My lord, I wish that you should reflect upon this.”

“But you desire me to usurp a place of great honor in the state, and I dare not. Let there be more delay and discussion.”

But with one voice they said, “Our lord, if you reject this, the hearts of the people will turn from you.”

“My lord,” said Zhuge Liang, “you have made rectitude your motto all your life. If you really object to the most honored title, then, since you have Jingzhou, Yiazhou, and Hanzhong, take temporarily the title of 'Prince of Hanzhong.'“ “Gentlemen, though you may desire to honor me by the title of Prince, yet, without an edict from the Emperor, such action would be usurpation.”

Said Zhuge Liang, “The time demands recognition of the actual state of authority, and not a rigid adherence to all the rules of propriety.”

And Zhang Fei roared out, “All sorts of people with all sorts of names are making themselves rulers; how much more ought you, O Brother, who are of the dynastic stock? It ought not to be Prince of Hanzhong but Emperor. What prevents it?”

“Brother, say no more,” said Liu Bei, roughly.

“My lord,” said Zhuge Liang, “it is fitting to follow political changes and suit one's conduct to circumstances. Wherefore first take the princedom, and then memorialize the Throne.”

As there seemed no option, Liu Bei listened and complied. In the twenty-fourth year of Rebuilt Tranquillity (AD 219), in the seventh month, an altar was set up at Mianyang, nine square miles, which was set around with the proper flags and banners and symbols. In the presence of all his civil and military officers assembled according to their rank, and at the request of the two Ministers Xu Jing and Fa Zheng, Liu Bei received the head dress and seat of a prince. Then he took his seat, facing the south as a ruler should, and received the salutes and felicitations of all his officers as the Prince of Hanzhong. And his son Liu Shan was nominated his heir-apparent.

Xu Jing was given the title of Royal Guardian; Fa Zheng that of Chair of the Secretariat. Zhuge Liang was reappointed Directing Instructor of the Forces, with the additional powers of control over the whole state policy. Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, Zhao Yun, Huang Zhong, and Ma Chao were the Five Tiger Generals. Wei Yan was made Governor of Hanzhong, and all the others who had assisted were given ranks and offices.

As soon as the investiture was completed, Liu Bei composed a memorial and sent it to Capital Xuchang. This is the document:

“I, Liu Bei, have but ordinary talents, yet was I made a general of high rank and led a great army. Though I received a commission to purge the empire of rebels, I was unable to cleanse it and so renew the tranquillity to Your Majesty's house and restore the dynasty. Too long have I delayed to spread Your Majesty's sacred governance. The world is evil and not in good case, and as I sorrowfully think it over and over, I am distressed as one in severe pain.

“Rebellion began with Dong Zhuo, and all kinds of evils have spread abroad; cruelty and ferocity have become rife. Strong in faith in Your Majesty's sacred virtue and inspiring presence, many banded together to help. The loyal exerted themselves to destroy the rebels, but others of them were smitten of heaven. The fierce and the contumacious have been exterminated, and gradually rebellion has melted away.

“Only Cao Cao now remains, too long unpunished. He has arrogated to himself the authority of the state. His wicked heart is very rebellious. Once I, with General Dong Cheng, the State Uncle, conspired against him, but the plot was discovered and my fellow conspirator suffered. Thenceforward I was a wanderer and my loyalty availed nothing. It only allowed Cao Cao further license and liberty to do evil, till he dared even to accomplish the death of the Empress and the destruction of her sons. Although we might band together and form associations, yet, with all our energy, we had to recognize that we were too weak for war. Wherefore the years passed and nothing was accomplished. In constant fear of destruction, we even forgot our duty to the state. Waking and sleeping we sighed, and our nights were times of anxiety.

“Now my fellows consider that history has repeated itself. They attach the utmost importance to the family and would manifest it with all their might. Hereditary succession of rulers is still a principle. The rulers of Zhou, taking the two preceding dynasties as models, strengthened its position through all the states, and it reinforced itself with the support of the states of Jing and Zheng. When the great Founder of the Hans came into his own, he ennobled his whole family with kingships and lordships. Later, the dynasty had to issue a general command throughout the whole of the nine regions in order to destroy the widespread Lu Family and to enhance the Liu Family.

“Now Cao Cao is an enemy of all rectitude, and his followers are all evil. His treachery is manifest. Since the members of the imperial clan are few and weak, the clan is not honored. Having reflected upon the ancient models and being desirous of temporary alleviation, my fellows have made me assume the title of Prince of Hanzhong with the addition of Regent Marshal.

“I have deeply considered these things. If one receives kindness from the Throne and accepts the responsibility for a portion of the state and fail, then such a fault would only be made the more serious by holding high rank and thereby increasing the burden of reproach. But my fellows have urged me, and they have convinced me that it would be right; and, should I refuse, the wicked will not be destroyed and the danger to the state will not be removed. The temple of our ancestors is in danger, and the imperial prerogatives are failing. A faithful servant, who in the day of tribulation can undertake a suitable policy whereby to preserve the dynasty, should not refuse his help at any cost. Wherefore I have yielded and accepted the position for the glory of the state.

“Humbly I think of such a title and its exalted position and the favor vouchsafed me, and I would endeavor to show true gratitude. My anxiety is deep, for the responsibility is heavy. I am as one on the brink of a great gulf. I must surely exert myself to the utmost and encourage my armies and lead all disciples of rectitude, in accordance with the will of Heaven and as occasion serves, to smite rebellion so as to restore the dynasty.”

When this memorial reached Capital Xuchang, Cao Cao was in his palace at Yejun, and it annoyed him greatly.

“How dare this mean weaver of straw shoes behave thus?” said he. “Now I swear that I will destroy him.”

So he issued orders for the whole force of the state to go out against the two Lands of Rivers to wage fierce war with the new Prince of Hanzhong.

But a remonstrance came from the mouth of one man.

“Let not the great Prince of Wei trouble himself to go on a distant expedition because of a temporary annoyance. I can propose a plan of which the execution will need not the bending of a single bow, and yet it will make Liu Bei bring down disaster upon his own head. When his army shall have become exhausted, it will only be necessary to send one single general against him and victory will be ours.”

Cao Cao looked at the officer; it was First Secretary Sima Yi.

“What is your exalted view, my friend?” said Cao Cao.

“Sun Quan's sister is wife to Liu Bei, but Sun Quan has found an occasion to steal away the bride. Liu Bei is in possession of Jingzhou still, and he and Sun Quan are bitter enemies. Therefore send some able speaker with a letter to Wu to persuade the Marquis to send an army to recover Jingzhou. That will draw thither all the armies of Shu, when you can send your army to Hanzhong. Liu Bei will be helpless and his strength will be wasted.” The scheme pleased Cao Cao. He at once drew up a letter and sent it by the hand of Man Chong, who soon arrived in Wu. As soon as Sun Quan knew of the mission, he summoned his advisers to consult.

Zhang Zhao said, “Wei and Wu are primarily enemies because of the dissension fomented by the words of Zhuge Liang. They have been fighting for several years and many lives have been lost. Now this messenger has surely come to discuss terms of friendship, and he should be welcomed.”

On the strength of this, Man Chong was well received and conducted into the city and into the presence of Sun Quan. He presented his letters at the conclusion of the ceremonies of reception and declared his mission.

“Wu and Wei have no fundamental quarrel, and their dissension has been brought about by Liu Bei. My master sends me to covenant with you for an attack on Jingzhou, while he goes against Hanzhong. This double attack being successful, the conquered country can be divided between us two, and we can both swear to respect each other's territory.”

Having read the letter, Sun Quan prepared a banquet in honor of Man Chong and then sent him to the guest-house to rest while he discussed the matter with his council of advisers.

Said Gu Yong, “Although the messenger's speech was all special pleading, it was correct in form. I propose that the messenger be allowed to return and that a covenant be made with Cao Cao for joint attack. In addition, let spies be sent over the Great River to find out Guan Yu's movements, and then we may act.”

Zhuge Jin said, “I hear that since Guan Yu has been in Jingzhou, Liu Bei has found him a wife, who has borne him a son and a daughter. The daughter is too young to have been betrothed, wherefore let me go to ask her in marriage with your heir. If Guan Yu agrees, then we can arrange with him to attack Cao Cao. If Guan Yu refuses, then let us aid Cao Cao in an attack on Jingzhou.”

Sun Quan took this advice. So he sent Man Chong away and sent Zhuge Jin to Jingzhou to try to arrange the betrothal. Zhuge Jin was received; and when the time came to state the reason for his coming, Guan Yu asked him, “What have you come for, Zhuge Jin?”

“I have come seeking to ally the two houses. My master, the Marquis of Wu, has a son who is quite clever. Hearing that you have a daughter, General, I ask her in marriage, hereby the two houses may join in an attack on Cao Cao. This would be an admirable result, and I pray you consider the proposal.”

But the warrior flared up.

“How can my tiger's daughter marry with a dog's whelp? Were it not for your brother, I would take your head. Say no more!”

Guan Yu called his servants to hustle forth the hapless messenger, who ran away with his hands over his head, too astonished to look any one in the face. And reaching his own place, he dared not hide the manner of his reception, but told the whole truth.

“What ruffianism!” exclaimed the Marquis.

Thereupon Sun Quan ordered the council again to consider an attack on Jingzhou.

Bu Zhi rose and said, “It has been long manifest that Cao Cao wishes to usurp the Throne, but he is afraid of Liu Bei. Now we are to attack Shu with an army, and Cao Cao want to shift the misfortune to us indeed.” “But I also want the place,” said Sun Quan.

Said Bu Zhi, “Cao Ren is already camped at Fankou and Xiangyang and in no danger from the river. If Cao Cao can take Jingzhou by land, why does he not take it? However, he wants you, my lord, to send your army, and you can judge his real intention from this. Send to Cao Cao and tell him to make Cao Ren attack by land. Then Guan Yu must take the army from Jingzhou to Fankou. When Guan Yu has left Jingzhou, you can send an army to seize it.”

Sun Quan thought the scheme good and sent letters with these proposals to Cao Cao. Cao Cao adopted the plan, and having sent the messenger back to the South Land, he next sent Man Chong to help Cao Ren at Fankou as Assistant Adviser in the matter of attack. He also sent dispatches to the South Land to ask for the assistance of Sun Quan's marine force.

Having laid on Wei Yan the task of holding the Eastern Land of Rivers, the Prince of Hanzhong, with his officers, returned to Chengdu and began to set his new house in order. A palace was begun and public guest-houses were built, and between Chengdu and Baishui, at selected places, they built four hundred rest-houses and post stations. The Prince of Hanzhong also set himself to accumulate great stores of grain and forage and to till his arsenals with weapons with the design of mastering the capital in the north and the whole empire.

Then his spies told him of the treaty between Cao Cao and Sun Quan, with designs upon Jingzhou, and he hastily called in Zhuge Liang to ask what should be done.

“I felt that Cao Cao would try to do this,” said Zhuge Liang, “and most of the advisers in the South Land will persuade Cao Cao to order Cao Ren to begin the campaign.”

“But what am I to do?” asked the Prince.

“First send a special messenger to Guan Yu with his new title, telling him to capture Fankou, which will so damp the ardor of the enemy that they will break off themselves.”

Therefore Liu Bei sent Fei Shi, a minister from his Board of War, to take the patent of the new title to Guan Yu, who received the delegate with great deference and conducted him into the city. After they had arrived at the official residence, Guan Yu inquired what new title had been conferred upon him.

“The First of the Five Tiger Generals,” replied Fei Shi.

“And who are the five?”

“Their names are Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, Zhao Yun, Ma Chao, and Huang Zhong.”

“The second is my brother,” said Guan Yu. “Ma Chao comes of a famous family, and Zhao Yun has been with my elder brother so long that he is as a brother. It is right for them to be put on a level with me. But what sort of a man is this Huang Zhong that he is ranked with us? The really great man does not stand shoulder to shoulder with any old soldier that comes along.”

And Guan Yu refused both title and seal.

“You do wrong to refuse,” said Fei Shi. “Of old, Xiao He and Cao Shen helped Liu Bang, the Founder of the Han Dynasty, in his great enterprise and were very dear friends, while Han Xin was but a runaway leader from Chu. Yet Liu Bang made Han Xin a prince, and so placed over the heads of the other two. I have never heard that these two resented it. The Prince of Hanzhong has his Five Tiger Generals, but he is still your brother and all that that means. As his brother, you are he and he is you. Is there any comparison with any other? The Prince has always treated you with the greatest kindness. You two are one in sorrow and joy, sharers of disaster and good fortune. No such question as that of a mere title ought to reckon at all. I pray you, Sir, reflect.”

Guan Yu understood, and thanked Fei Shi, saying, “You have prevented me from making a great mistake due to my ignorance.”

Guan Yu then received the seal with all humility.

Next Fei Shi produced the edict ordering the capture of Fankou. Guan Yu lost no time in obeying its command. He appointed Fu Shiren and Mi Fang Leaders of the Van to take the first army out of the city into camp. This done, a banquet was prepared for Fei Shi, and they sat late at their wine. While still at table there was an alarm of fire in the new camp, and Guan Yu hastened out of the city to see. He found that the two generals had also been feasting, and the fire had started behind their tent, a spark having fallen into some explosives, whence it spread and destroyed the whole camp and all that was in it. Guan Yu and his soldiers did what they could to put out the fire and then reentered the city. There Guan Yu summoned the two generals before him, abused them for their lack of care, and sentenced them to death.

However, Fei Shi interceded for them, saying, “It is not well to put two leaders to death at the beginning of a campaign, before even the army has marched. You might reprieve them at least.”

Guan Yu's anger had by no means subsided, but he recalled the two generals and said, “Were it not that I have the greatest regard for Chairman Fei Shi here, I had let the sentence take its course. Now I will only flog you.”

So the two officers received forty blows each and were degraded from leading the van. Their seals were taken away, and Mi Fang was sent to Nanjun, Fu Shiren to Gongan.

“Now be warned,” said Guan Yu. “If, when I return from my victories, there is the least sign of disorder on your part, you will suffer for both faults.”

The two men flushed crimson and went out.

Then two new officers were appointed, Liao Hua and Guan Ping. Next Guan Yu took command of the main army, and he had two advisers—Ma Liang and Yi Ji. Then it was that Hu Hua's son, Hu Ban, came to Jingzhou and joined Guan Yu, who loved him for the sake of his father and the good service Hu Ban had rendered when he saved Guan Yu. Guan Yu sent Hu Ban to the Prince of Hanzhong in the train of Fei Shi.

The day that Guan Yu sacrificed to his standard before starting, he was lying in his tent resting when suddenly there dashed into his tent a huge boar, very large, as big as a bullock and quite black. It bit his foot. He jumped up to kill the creature, when it squealed with the sound of tearing cloth—and he awoke. It was a dream, but he had a pain in his foot.

The dream perplexed him, and he could not explain it. He related it to his son, who interpreted it happily, saying, “The boar is a royal beast, like the dragon, and coming to your feet means a rise of your dignity.”

When the dream got noised abroad, for he told his officers, some interpreted it as auspicious and some the reverse. “When a person nears sixty, he ought not to be greatly disturbed by the thought of death,” said Guan Yu. “After all, I am a warrior.”

Just about that time came an edict from the Prince of Hanzhong making him Commanding General, with honorable insignia of rank and control over the nine territories of forty-one counties in Jingzhou. When the officers congratulated him on his new honors, they did not forget the dream.

“This shows what a dream of boars means.”

This new distinction pleased Guan Yu greatly, and he had no more perplexing doubts. Soon he marched away along the great road to the point of danger.

Cao Ren was in Xiangyang when he heard that Guan Yu was coming against him. He was much put about, and inclined to trust solely to defense. But his next command, Zhai Yuan, did not support this course and argued against it.

“The Prince of Wei has ordered you to act in concert with Wu and take Jingzhou. For the other side to come against such a combination is to walk in the way of death; certainly we have no occasion to avoid a conflict.”

On the other hand the newly sent Adviser Man Chong inculcated caution. Said he, “Guan Yu is brave and cunning and one not to be met lightly. I think defense is best.”

Then General Xiahou Cun said contemptuously, “This is all the talk of a lot of book-folk. When the flood approaches, bank up to keep it out. Let the enemy come with their tired soldiers, and we shall go out, defeat them, and receive our reward, for we are sure of victory.”

Cao Ren was won over to the side of those of action. He placed Man Chong in command of the defenses while he went outside to beat off Guan Yu. When the two forces met, Guan Yu called to his side Guan Ping and Liao Hua, to whom he gave certain orders. These two advanced, settled their array, and Liao Hua then rode out and offered a challenge. Zhai Yuan accepted it; but soon after the combat began, Liao Hua made as if he was defeated and turned to leave the field. Zhai Yuan went after him. The Jingzhou troops retired seven miles or so.

Soon the Jingzhou soldiers came again and offered battle, when Xiahou Cun and Zhai Yuan both went out. The maneuver of the preceding day was repeated, and the Jingzhou army retreated another seven miles. But suddenly there was a detonation behind the army of Cao Cao, and the rolling of drums as for attack. Cao Ren hastily called upon his troops to return. They did so; but Guan Ping and Liao Hua then turned and followed on their heels so that the troops of Cao Cao were thrown into confusion.

Cao Ren by this time had seen that a trap had been laid and he had fallen therein, so he hastily marched with one army to Xiangyang. He got to within a short distance of the city when he saw before him a handsome banner waving in the wind, and out came Guan Yu with his green-dragon saber ready to slay. Cao Ren was powerless from fear, and, fighting being impossible, he turned off in a diagonal direction for Xiangyang.

Then Xiahou Cun came. He fell into a rage at the sight of the old warrior and went to fight him. But Xiahou Cun was slain in the first encounter. Zhai Yuan fled, but Guan Ping pursued and slew him. Then the pursuit was continued, and the loss of Cao Cao's side was very heavy. More than half were drowned in River Xiang. This phase ended with Cao Ren fleeing to Fankou and Guan Yu in possession of Xiangyang.

“You have obtained this city very easily,” said the Marching General, Wang Fu, “but the task is not ended. Cao Cao's army have been beaten and their courage broken, but there is danger from the side of Wu. Lu Meng is at Lukou, and he has long cherished the desire to lay hands on Jingzhou. Suppose he now attacks; what will happen?”

“I was even thinking of that myself. You may go and attend to this matter. You will certainly be able to find certain elevated spots on the river bank, about seven miles apart, suitable for alarm beacons, whence could be signaled any attempt of the marines of Wu to cross the river. Fifty soldiers could guard each station. Let there be a flame by night and a smoke by day. If they cross the river, I must go and smite them.”

Wang Fu replied, “Fu Shiren and Mi Fang are defending important places, but they may not be able to defend the Passes well. There ought to be a commander-in-chief over Jingzhou City.”

“There is no need for anxiety; Army Inspector Pan Jun is guarding the city.”

“The objection is the character of Pan Jun. He is jealous and selfish and not a fit person for the task. I think you would do well to replace him by Zhao Lei, now of the Chief of the Commissariat. Zhao Lei is loyal, trusty, clean-handed, and straight, a much more desirable man for the post.”

“I know Pan Jun very well, but I have delegated him for that duty and cannot change now. The work Zhao Lei has to do in the supplies is also most important. I do not think you need be anxious. Just get along with those beacons for me.”

Wang Fu, annoyed, took his leave. Then Guan Ping was bidden to prepare ships ready to cross the river and attack Fankou, whither Cao Ren had retired after his defeat.

Now Cao Ren said to Man Chong, “Neglecting your advice, I lost my soldiers, my two generals, and the city of Xiangyang. What am I to do now?”

“Guan Yu is very dangerous, too brave and skillful for us to try to defeat. We would better remain on the defensive,” replied Man Chong.

Just about this time came the tidings that Guan Yu was crossing the river on the way to attack. Man Chong maintained his policy of defense. But one of Cao Ren's generals, Lu Chang, was for going out to meet the enemy.

“I ask for a few thousand troops,” said Lu Chang, “and I will meet the enemy on the way.”

“You cannot do any good,” said Man Chong.

“According to the advice of you and the other bookish officials, there is only one thing to do. But will defense drive off the enemy? The proper way is to attack your enemy while he is crossing a river, and as Guan Yu is doing that now, why not attack? It will be quite another matter if you let him reach the walls and get possession of the moat.”

As a result of his arguments and protest, Lu Chang got command of two thousand troops, whom he led to the river. And there he found Guan Yu already arrayed for battle. Guan Yu at once rode out, and the bold Lu Chang was going to attack him. But his soldiers were panic-stricken at the sight of Guan Yu's fierce countenance and ran away. Lu Chang called them to come back, but they would not stop, and as Guan Yu came on with a rush, the army of Cao Cao again lost the day. Many were slain, and the remainder ran into Fankou. Cao Ren sent off a hasty messenger for help and a letter to Xuchang to tell what Guan Yu had done and how Fankou was in imminent danger of falling.

The letter reached Cao Cao, who chose a certain general among his leaders and assigned the task, “You go and defend Fankou!”

The man at once stepped out and accepted the assignment.

The man was Yu Jin.

“Let me have another general to lead the van,” said Yu Jin.

“Who volunteers?” asked Cao Cao, looking around.

“I do;” cried a man, “I will give my poor services for what they are worth. And I will capture this fellow Guan Yu and bring him as an offering before your standard.”

The soldiers of Wei began the war

Even before Wu had sent out armies.

But who was the man bold enough to say he would capture Guan Yu? For his name see the next chapter.