第六十五回

第六十五回 马超大战葭萌关 刘备自领益州牧

却说阎圃正劝张鲁勿助刘璋，只见马超挺身出曰：“超感主公之恩，无可上报。愿领一军攻取葭萌关，生擒刘备。务要刘璋割二十州奉还主公。”张鲁大喜，先遣黄权从小路而回，随即点兵二万与马超。此时庞德卧病不能行，留于汉中。张鲁令杨柏监军。超与弟马岱选日起程。

却说玄德军马在雒城。法正所差下书人回报说：“郑度劝刘璋尽烧野谷，并各处仓廪，率巴西之民，避于涪水西，深沟高垒而不战。”玄德、孔明闻之，皆大惊曰：“若用此言，吾势危矣！”法正笑曰：“主公勿忧。此计虽毒，刘璋必不能用也。”不一日，人传刘璋不肯迁动百姓，不从郑度之言。玄德闻之，方始宽心。孔明曰：“可速进兵取绵竹。如得此处，成都易取矣。”遂遣黄忠、魏延领兵前进。费观听知玄德兵来，差李严出迎。严领三千兵出，各布阵完。黄忠出马，与李严战四五十合，不分胜败。孔明在阵中教鸣金收军。黄忠回阵，问曰：“正待要擒李严，军师何故收兵？”孔明曰：“吾已见李严武艺，不可力取。来日再战，汝可诈败，引入山峪，出奇兵以胜之。”黄忠领计。次日，李严再引兵来，黄忠又出战，不十合诈败，引兵便走。李严赶来，迤逦赶入山峪，猛然省悟，急待回来，前面魏延引兵摆开，孔明自在山头唤曰：“公如不降，两下已伏强弩，欲与吾庞士元报仇矣。”李严慌下马卸甲投降，军士不曾伤害一人。孔明引李严见玄德，玄德待之甚厚。严曰：“费观虽是刘益州亲戚，与某甚密，当往说之。”玄德即命李严回城招降费观。严入绵竹城，对费观赞玄德如此仁德，今若不降，必有大祸。观从其言，开门投降。玄德遂入绵竹，商议分兵取成都。忽流星马急报，言：“孟达、霍峻守葭萌关，今被东川张鲁遣马超与杨柏、马岱领兵攻打甚急，救迟则关隘休矣。”玄德大惊。孔明曰：“须是张、赵二将，方可与敌。”玄德曰：“子龙引兵在外未回，翼德已在此，可急遣之。”孔明曰：“主公且勿言，容亮激之。”

却说张飞闻马超攻关，大叫而入曰：“辞了哥哥，便去战马超也！”孔明佯作不闻，对玄德曰：“今马超侵犯关隘，无人可敌。除非往荆州取关云长来，方可与敌。”张飞曰：“军师何故小觑吾！吾曾独拒曹操百万之兵，岂愁马超一匹夫乎！”孔明曰：“翼德拒水断桥，此因曹操不知虚实耳。若知虚实，将军岂得无事？今马超之勇，天下皆知，渭桥六战，杀得曹操割须弃袍，几乎丧命，非等闲之比。云长且未必可胜。”飞曰：“我只今便去，如胜不得马超，甘当军令！”孔明曰：“既尔肯写文书，便为先锋。请主公亲自去一遭，留亮守绵竹。待子龙来，却作商议。”魏延曰：“某亦愿往。”孔明令魏延带五百哨马先行，张飞第二，玄德后队，望葭萌关进发。魏延哨马先到关下，正遇杨柏。魏延与杨柏交战，不十合，杨柏败走。魏延要夺张飞头功，乘势赶去。前面一军摆开，为首乃是马岱。魏延只道是马超，舞刀跃马迎之。与岱战不十合，岱败走。延赶去，被岱回身一箭，中了魏延左臂。延急回马走。马岱赶到关前，只见一将喊声如雷，从关上飞奔至面前。原来是张飞初到关上，听得关前厮杀，便来看时，正见魏延中箭，因骤马下关，救了魏延。飞喝马岱曰：“汝是何人？先通姓名，然后厮杀！”马岱曰：“吾乃西凉马岱是也。”张飞曰：“你原来不是马超，快回去！非吾对手！只令马超那厮自来，说道燕人张飞在此！”马岱大怒曰：“汝焉敢小觑我！”挺枪跃马，直取张飞。战不十合，马岱败走。张飞欲待追赶，关上一骑马到来，叫：“兄弟且休去！”飞回视之，原来是玄德到来。飞遂不赶，一同上关。玄德曰：“恐怕你性躁，故我随后赶来到此。既然胜了马岱，且歇一宵，来日战马超。”

次日天明，关下鼓声大震，马超兵到。玄德在关上看时，门旗影里，马超纵骑持枪而出，狮盔兽带，银甲白袍，一来结束非凡，二者人才出众。玄德叹曰：“人言‘锦马超’，名不虚传！”张飞便要下关。玄德急止之曰：“且休出战，先当避其锐气。”关下马超单搦张飞出马，关上张飞恨不得平吞马超，三五番皆被玄德当住。看看午后，玄德望见马超阵上人马皆倦，遂选五百骑，跟着张飞，冲下关来。马超见张飞军到，把枪望后一招，约退军有一箭之地。张飞军马一齐扎住，关上军马，陆续下来。张飞挺枪出马，大呼：“认得燕人张翼德么！”马超曰：“吾家屡世公侯，岂识村野匹夫！”张飞大怒。两马齐出，二枪并举，约战百馀合，不分胜负。玄德观之，叹曰：“真虎将也！”恐张飞有失，急鸣金收军。两将各回。张飞回到阵中，略歇马片时，不用头盔，只裹包巾上马，又出阵前搦马超厮杀。超又出，两个再战。玄德恐张飞有失，自披挂下关，直至阵前，看张飞与马超又斗百馀合，两个精神倍加。玄德教鸣金收军，二将分开，各回本阵。是日天色已晚，玄德谓张飞曰：“马超英勇，不可轻敌，且退上关。来日再战。”张飞杀得性起，那里肯休？大叫曰：“誓死不回！”玄德曰：“今日天晚，不可战矣。”飞曰：“多点火把，安排夜战！”马超亦换了马，再出阵前，大叫曰：“张飞！敢夜战么？”张飞性起，问玄德换了坐下马，抢出阵来，叫曰：“我捉你不得，誓不上关！”超曰：“我胜你不得，誓不回寨！”两军呐喊，点起千百火把，照耀如同白日。两将又向阵前鏖战。到二十馀合，马超拨回马便走。张飞大叫曰：“走那里去！”原来马超见赢不得张飞，心生一计，诈败佯输，赚张飞赶来，暗掣铜锤在手，扭回身觑着张飞便打将来。张飞见马超走，心中也提防，比及铜锤打来时，张飞一闪，从耳朵边过去。张飞便勒回马走时，马超却又赶来。张飞带住马，拈弓搭箭，回射马超，超却闪过。二将各自回阵。玄德自于阵前叫曰：“吾以仁义待人，不施谲诈。马孟起，你收兵歇息，我不乘势赶你。”马超闻言，亲自断后，诸军渐退。玄德亦收军上关。

次日，张飞又欲下关战马超，人报军师来到。玄德接着孔明，孔明曰：“亮闻孟起世之虎将，若与翼德死战，必有一伤，故令子龙、汉升守住绵竹，我星夜来此。可用条小计，令马超归降主公。”玄德曰：“吾见马超英勇，甚爱之。如何可得？”孔明曰：“亮闻东川张鲁，欲自立为‘汉宁王’。手下谋士杨松，极贪贿赂。主公可差人从小路径投汉中，先用金银结好杨松，后进书与张鲁云：‘吾与刘璋争西川，是与汝报仇。不可听信离间之语。事定之后，保汝为汉宁王。’令其撤回马超兵。待其来撤时，便可用计招降马超矣。”玄德大喜，即时修书，差孙乾赍金珠从小路径至汉中，先来见杨松，说知此事，送了金珠。松大喜，先引孙乾见张鲁，陈言方便。鲁曰：“玄德只是左将军，如何保得我为汉宁王？”杨松曰：“他是大汉皇叔，正合保奏。”张鲁大喜，便差人教马超罢兵。孙乾只在杨松家听回信。

不一日，使者回报：“马超言：未成功，不可退兵。”张鲁又遣人去唤，又不肯回。一连三次不至。杨松曰：“此人素无信行，不肯罢兵，其意必反。”遂使人流言云：“马超意欲夺西川，自为蜀主，与父报仇，不肯臣于汉中。”张鲁闻之，问计于杨松。松曰：“一面差人去说与马超：‘汝既欲成功，与汝一月限，要依我三件事。若依得便有赏，否则必诛：一要取西川，二要刘璋首级，三要退荆州兵。三件事不成，可献头来。’一面教张卫点军守把关隘，防马超兵变。”鲁从之，差人到马超寨中，说这三件事。超大惊曰：“如何变得恁的！”乃与马岱商议：“不如罢兵。”杨松又流言曰：“马超回兵，必怀异心。”于是张卫分七路军，坚守隘口，不放马超兵入。超进退不得，无计可施。孔明谓玄德曰：“今马超正在进退两难之际，亮凭三寸不烂之舌，亲往超寨，说马超来降。”玄德曰：“先生乃吾之股肱心腹，倘有疏虞，如之奈何？”孔明坚意要去，玄德再三不肯放去。

正踌躇间，忽报赵云有书荐西川一人来降。玄德召入问之，其人乃建宁俞元人也，姓李，名恢，字德昂。玄德曰：“向日闻公苦谏刘璋，今何故归我？”恢曰：“吾闻：‘良禽相木而栖，贤臣择主而事。’前谏刘益州者，以尽人臣之心，既不能用，知必败矣。今将军仁德布于蜀中，知事必成，故来归耳。”玄德曰：“先生此来，必有益于刘备。”恢曰：“今闻马超在进退两难之际。恢昔在陇西，与彼有一面之交，愿往说马超归降，若何？”孔明曰：“正欲得一人替吾一往。愿闻公之说词。”李恢于孔明耳畔陈说如此如此。孔明大喜，即时遣行。

恢行至超寨，先使人通姓名。马超曰：“吾知李恢乃辩士，今必来说我。”先唤二十刀斧手伏于帐下，嘱曰：“令汝砍，即砍为肉酱！”须臾，李恢昂然而入。马超端坐帐中不动，叱李恢曰：“汝来为何？”恢曰：“特来作说客。”超曰：“吾匣中宝剑新磨，汝试言之。其言不通，便请试剑！”恢笑曰：“将军之祸不远矣！但恐新磨之剑，不能试吾之头，将欲自试也！”超曰：“吾有何祸？”恢曰：“吾闻越之西子[1]，善毁者不能闭其美；齐之无盐[2]，善美者不能掩其丑；‘日中则昃，月满则亏’[3]：此天下之常理也。今将军与曹操有杀父之仇，而陇西又有切齿之恨；前不能救刘璋而退荆州之兵，后不能制杨松而见张鲁之面；目下四海难容，一身无主；若复有渭桥之败，冀城之失，何面目见天下之人乎？”超顿首谢曰：“公言极善，但超无路可行。”恢曰：“公既听吾言，帐下何故伏刀斧手？”超大惭，尽叱退。恢曰：“刘皇叔礼贤下士，吾知其必成，故舍刘璋而归之。公之尊人，昔年曾与皇叔约共讨贼，公何不背暗投明，以图上报父仇，下立功名乎？”马超大喜，即唤杨柏入，一剑斩之，将首级共恢一同上关来降玄德。玄德亲自接入，待以上宾之礼。超顿首谢曰：“今遇明主，如拨云雾而见青天！”时孙乾已回。玄德复命霍峻、孟达守关，便撤兵来取成都，赵云、黄忠接入绵竹。人报蜀将刘晙、马汉引军到。赵云曰：“某愿往擒此二人！”言讫，上马引军出。玄德在城上管待马超吃酒，未曾安席，子龙已斩二人之头，献于筵前。马超亦惊，倍加敬重。超曰：“不须主公军马厮杀，超自唤出刘璋来降。如不肯降，超自与弟马岱取成都，双手奉献。”玄德大喜，是日尽欢。

却说败兵回到益州，报刘璋。璋大惊，闭门不出。人报城北马超救兵到，刘璋方敢登城望之。见马超、马岱立于城下，大叫：“请刘季玉答话。”刘璋在城上问之。超在马上以鞭指曰：“吾本领张鲁兵来救益州，谁想张鲁听信杨松谗言，反欲害我，今已归降刘皇叔。公可纳土拜降，免致生灵受苦。如或执迷，吾先攻城矣！”刘璋惊得面如土色，气倒于城上。众官救醒，璋曰：“吾之不明，悔之何及！不若开门投降，以救满城百姓。”董和曰：“城中尚有兵三万馀人，钱帛粮草，可支一年。奈何便降？”刘璋曰：“吾父子在蜀二十馀年，无恩德以加百姓，攻战三年，血肉捐于草野，皆我罪也。我心何安？不如投降以安百姓。”众人闻之，皆堕泪。忽一人进曰：“主公之言，正合天意。”视之，乃巴西西充国人也，姓谯，名周，字允南，此人素晓天文。璋问之，周曰：“某夜观乾象，见群星聚于蜀郡，其大星光如皓月，乃帝王之象也。况一载之前，小儿谣云：‘若要吃新饭，须待先生来。’此乃预兆，不可逆天道。”黄权、刘巴闻言皆大怒，欲斩之，刘璋当住。忽报：“蜀郡太守许靖，逾城出降矣。”刘璋大哭归府。

次日，人报刘皇叔遣幕宾简雍在城下唤门。璋令开门接入，雍坐车中，傲睨自若，忽一人掣剑大喝曰：“小辈得志，傍若无人！汝敢藐视吾蜀中人物耶！”雍慌下车迎之。此人乃广汉绵竹人也，姓秦，名宓，字子。雍笑曰：“不识贤兄，幸勿见责。”遂同入见刘璋，具说玄德宽洪大度，并无相害之意。于是刘璋决计投降，厚待简雍。次日，亲赍印绶文籍，与简雍同车出城投降。玄德出寨迎接，握手流涕曰：“非吾不行仁义，奈势不得已也！”共入寨，交割印绶文籍，并马入城。

玄德入成都，百姓香花灯烛，迎门而接。玄德到公厅，升堂坐定，郡内诸官，皆拜于堂下，惟黄权、刘巴，闭门不出。众将忿怒，欲往杀之。玄德慌忙传令曰：“如有害此二人者，灭其三族！”玄德亲自登门，请二人出仕，二人感玄德恩礼，乃出。孔明请曰：“今西川平定，难容二主：可将刘璋送去荆州。”玄德曰：“吾方得蜀郡，未可令季玉远去。”孔明曰：“刘璋失基业者，皆因太弱耳。主公若以妇人之仁，临事不决，恐此土难以长久。”玄德从之，设一大宴，请刘璋收拾财物，佩领振威将军印绶，令将妻子良贱[4]，尽赴南郡公安住歇，即日起行。

玄德自领益州牧，其所降文武，尽皆重赏，定拟名爵：严颜为前将军，法正为蜀郡太守，董和为掌军中郎将，许靖为左将军长史，庞义为营中司马，刘巴为左将军，黄权为右将军。其余吴懿、费观、彭羕、卓膺、李严、吴兰、雷铜、李恢、张翼、秦宓、谯周、吕义、霍峻、邓芝、杨洪、周群、费、费诗、孟达，文武投降官员，共六十馀人，并皆擢用。诸葛亮为军师，关云长为荡寇将军、汉寿亭侯，张飞为征虏将军、新亭侯，赵云为镇远将军，黄忠为征西将军，魏延为扬武将军，马超为平西将军。孙乾、简雍、糜竺、糜芳、刘封、吴班、关平、周仓、廖化、马良、马谡、蒋琬、伊籍，及旧日荆襄一班文武官员，尽皆升赏。遣使赍黄金五百斤、白银一千斤、钱五千万、蜀锦一千匹，赐与云长。其馀官将，给赏有差[5]。杀牛宰马，大饷士卒，开仓赈济百姓，军民大悦。

益州既定，玄德欲将成都有名田宅，分赐诸官。赵云谏曰：“益州人民，屡遭兵火，田宅皆空，今当归还百姓，令安居复业，民心方服。不宜夺之为私赏也。”玄德大喜，从其言。使诸葛军师定拟治国条例，刑法颇重。法正曰：“昔高祖约法三章[6]，黎民皆感其德。愿军师宽刑省法，以慰民望。”孔明曰：“君知其一，未知其二：秦用法暴虐，万民皆怨，故高祖以宽仁得之。今刘璋暗弱，德政不举，威刑不肃，君臣之道，渐以陵替。宠之以位，位极则残，顺之以恩，恩竭则慢，所以致弊，实由于此。吾今威之以法，法行则知恩，限之以爵，爵加则知荣，恩荣并济，上下有节。为治之道，于斯著矣。”法正拜服。自此军民安堵[7]。四十一州地面，分兵镇抚，并皆平定。法正为蜀郡太守，凡平日一餐之德，睚眦之怨，无不报复。或告孔明曰：“孝直太横，宜稍斥之。”孔明曰：“昔主公困守荆州，北畏曹操，东惮孙权，赖孝直为之辅翼，遂翻然翱翔，不可复制。今奈何禁止孝直，使不得少行其意耶？”因竟不问。法正闻之，亦自敛戢[8]。

一日，玄德正与孔明闲叙，忽报云长遣关平来谢所赐金帛，玄德召入。平拜罢，呈上书信曰：“父亲知马超武艺过人，要入川来与之比试高低，教就禀伯父此事。”玄德大惊曰：“若云长入蜀，与孟起比试，势不两立。”孔明曰：“无妨，亮自作书回之。”玄德只恐云长性急，便教孔明写了书，发付关平星夜回荆州。平回至荆州，云长问曰：“我欲与马孟起比试，汝曾说否？”平答曰：“军师有书在此。”云长拆开视之，其书曰：

亮闻将军欲与孟起分别高下。以亮度之，孟起虽雄烈过人，亦乃黥布、彭越[9]之徒耳，当与翼德并驱争先，犹未及美髯公之绝伦超群也。今公受任守荆州，不为不重，倘一入川，若荆州有失，罪莫大焉。惟冀明照。

云长看毕，自绰其髯笑曰：“孔明知我心也。”将书遍示宾客，遂无入川之意。

却说东吴孙权，知玄德并吞西川，将刘璋逐于公安，遂召张昭、顾雍商议曰：“当初刘备借我荆州时，说取了西川，便还荆州。今已得巴蜀四十一州，须用取索汉上诸郡。如其不还，即动干戈。”张昭曰：“吴中方宁，不可动兵。昭有一计，使刘备将荆州双手奉还主公。”正是：西蜀方开新日月，东吴又索旧山川。未知其计如何，且看下文分解。

[1] 西子——西施，春秋时越地的美女。

[2] 无盐——指钟离春，战国时齐国无盐地方的丑女。

[3] “日中则昃（zè），月满则亏”——古代成语。太阳升到正中，就开始偏西；月亮到正圆时，就开始缺损，譬喻事物到了极端就向反面转化。

[4] 良贱——这里同“主仆”。封建统治阶级把奴仆看作“贱人”。

[5] 给赏有差——按等级差别给予不同的赏赐。

[6] 约法三章——汉高祖刘邦攻下秦都咸阳，为了收买民心，与秦民约定，只实施三条法律：“杀人者死，伤人及盗抵罪。”其余秦的苛法全都废除。

[7] 安堵——也写作案堵、按堵，秩序照常、没有变乱的意思。

[8] 敛戢（jí）——敛，收缩；戢，停止：就是约束行动的意思。

[9] 黥布、彭越——两人都是汉高祖的猛将。

CHAPTER 65. Ma Chao Battles At Jiameng Pass; Liu Bei Takes The Protectorship Of Yiazhou.

It was Yan Pu who thus opposed sending help to Liu Zhang. Then Ma Chao rose and said, “I have been the recipient of much kindness from my lord, which I feel I can never repay adequately. Now let me lead an army to take Jiameng Pass and capture Liu Bei. Then, my lord, Liu Zhang will surely lose his twenty counties, and they shall be yours.”

This offer rejoiced Zhang Lu, who sent away Huang Quan without an answer and told off twenty thousand for Ma Chao to lead. Pang De was too ill to take part in the expedition, so he remained in Hanzhong. Zhang Lu ordered Yang Bo to be Army Supervisor. Ma Chao and Ma Dai chose the day to march to Jiameng Pass.

Meanwhile, the messenger sent by Fa Zheng had returned to Luocheng to report: “Zheng Du advised Liu Zhang to set fire to all the plains and valleys between the capital and the invaders, as well as the granaries, to move sway the people, and to stand solely on the defensive.”

This news caused Liu Bei and Zhuge Liang great anxiety, for it would be a grave danger to them. However, Fa Zheng was more sanguine.

“Do not be anxious,” said he, “the plan would be extremely harmful, but it will not be carried out. Liu Zhang will not do that.”

Surely enough, very soon they heard that Liu Zhang had not adopted the suggestion; he would not remove the people. It was a great relief to Liu Bei.

Then said Zhuge Liang, “Now let us capture Mianzhu quickly, for, that done, Chengdu is as good as ours.”

Liu Bei therefore told off Huang Zhong and Wei Yan to advance first. When Commander of Mianzhu, Fei Guan, heard of their advance, he ordered Li Yan to go out to stop them, and Li Yan led out three thousand troops. The two sides being arrayed, Huang Zhong rode out and fought some half hundred bouts with Li Yan. Neither was able to claim a victory, and so Zhuge Liang from the midst of the host ordered them to beat the gongs to cease from battle.

When Huang Zhong had got back to his side again, he said, “O Instructor, why did you sound the retirement just as I was getting the better of my opponent?”

“Because I saw that Li Yan was not to be overcome by mere force. Tomorrow you shall fight again, and then you shall lead him into the hills by the ruse of pretended defeat. There will be a surprise awaiting him.”

Huang Zhong agreed to try this plan, and so on the morrow accepted Li Yan's challenge when it was offered. After about the tenth bout, Huang Zhong and his troops pretended to be worsted and ran. Li Yan pursued and was quickly lured into the mountains. Suddenly his danger flashed into his mind, and he turned to go back.

But he found Wei Yan's troops drawn up across his path, while Zhuge Liang from a hill top near by cried, “You would better yield; if not, there are bows and crossbows on both sides of you—all ready to avenge the death of our Pang Tong.”

Li Yan dropped off his horse, threw aside his armor, and offered submission. Not a soldier of his had been hurt. The prisoner was conducted to Liu Bei, who was very affable and so won Li Yan's heart that Li Yan offered to try to seduce Fei Guan from his allegiance.

“Though he is related to Liu Zhang, yet Fei Guan and I are very close friends. Let me go and persuade him.”

Wherefore Li Yan was sent back to the city to induce his chief to come over to Liu Bei's side. Li Yan talked to such effect of the kindness and virtues of Liu Bei that Fei Guan was won over, opened the city gates, and admitted the invaders.

As soon as Liu Bei had entered Mianzhu, he set out his forces to take the capital.

While thus engaged, a hasty messenger came to tell of the doings at Jiameng Pass: “There suddenly appeared an army from the east under Ma Chao, Ma Dai, and Yang Bo. They are attacking, and the Pass will certainly be lost if help is not sent quickly.”

“We need both Zhang Fei and Zhao Yun for this,” remarked Zhuge Liang. “Then we could oppose successfully.”

“But Zhao Yun is away,” said Liu Bei. “However, Zhang Fei is here. Let us send him quickly.”

“Do not say anything, my lord,” said Zhuge Liang. “Let me stir him to fight his noblest.”

But as soon as Zhang Fei heard of the danger, he came rushing in, shouting, “I must say farewell, Brother! I am off to fight Ma Chao.”

However, Zhuge Liang made as if he heard not and said to Liu Bei, “That Ma Chao has invaded Jiameng Pass, and we have no one to drive him back. Nobody can stand up to him, unless we can get Guan Yu from Jingzhou. Guan Yu could do it.”

“Why do you despise me, O Instructor?” cried Zhang Fei. “Did I not once drive back a whole army with my mere voice? Think you that I mind a stupid fool like Ma Chao?”

Zhuge Liang said, “Yes, Zhang Fei; but when you forced back the waters and broke the bridge in the Long Slope, you succeeded because your enemies were doubtful. If they had known, General, you would not have come off so easily. All the world knows this Ma Chao and has heard about his six battles at River Wei; and how he made Cao Cao cut off his beard and throw away his robe. Ma Chao very nearly slew Cao Cao too. This is no lightsome task like that, and even Guan Yu might fail.”

“All I care for is to go, and if I do not overcome this fellow, I will take the consequences.”

“Well, if you will put that in writing, you may lead the attack. And I will ask our lord to lead another army to back you up this time. He can leave the defense of this town to me till Zhao Yun returns.”

“I also want to go,” said Wei Yan. Wei Yan was allowed to go with five hundred of light horse in advance of Zhang Fei. Liu Bei marched third. Wei Yan and his scouts soon arrived at Jiameng Pass and there fell in with Yang Bo. They engaged; but after a few bouts Yang Bo fled.

At this success Wei Yan was seized with ambition to rival it and try to snatch the credit that would fall to Zhang Fei. So he pursued. But he presently came across a line of battle all drawn up, the commander being Ma Dai. Wei Yan, thinking it was the redoubtable Ma Chao, rode toward him whirling his sword. Soon Ma Dai turned and ran away, and Wei Yan followed him. However, Ma Dai presently turned back and shot an arrow, which wounded Wei Yan in the left arm, so that he left the pursuit and turned his face the other way. Then Ma Dai came after him and chased Wei Yan nearly up to the Pass.

Here Ma Dai was suddenly confronted by a fierce thunder-roaring leader who dashed down from the Pass as on a flying steed.

It was Zhang Fei, who had just arrived. Hearing the noise of battle below the Pass, Zhang Fei had come to learn what it meant and saw the arrow wound Wei Yan. Soon Zhang Fei was in the saddle and off to the rescue; but before he engaged, he would ascertain if the foe was worthy of his steel.

“Who are you? Tell your name,” cried Zhang Fei, “then I may fight with you.”

“I am Ma Dai of Xiliang.”

“As you are not Ma Chao, go away quickly, for you are no match for me. You may bid Ma Chao himself come, and tell him that Zhang Fei of Yan is here.”

“How dare you treat me with contempt?” cried Ma Dai in hot anger, and he came galloping up with his spear set ready to thrust. But after a half score bouts he fled.

Zhang Fei was about to pursue when a rider came up to him hastily, crying, “Do not pursue, my brother.”

The rider was Liu Bei and Zhang Fei stopped. The two returned together to the Pass.

“I knew your impulsive temper, and so I followed you. Since you have got the better of him, you may well rest and recuperate for the fight tomorrow with Ma Chao.”

The rolling of drums at dawn next day declared the arrival of Ma Chao. Liu Bei looked at the array from a point of vantage and saw Ma Chao emerge from the shadow of his great standard. Ma Chao wore a lion helmet, and his belt was clasped with the shaggy head of a wild beast. His breastplate was silver and his robe of white. As his dress and bearing were so extraordinary, so were his abilities superior. And Liu Bei looked at him, sighing admiringly.

“He justifies what people say,” said Liu Bei, “Handsome Ma Chao.”

Zhang Fei was for going down at once, but his brother once more checked him, saying, “No; not yet. Avoid the first keenness of his fighting ardor.”

Thus below was Ma Chao challenging Zhang Fei, while, above, Zhang Fei was fretting at being unable to settle Ma Chao. Time after time Zhang Fei was setting out, but each time his brother checked him. And so it continued till past midday, when Liu Bei, noticing signs of fatigue and weariness among Ma Chao's army, decided that it was time to let Zhang Fei try his fortune. Whereupon Liu Bei chose out five hundred horsemen to accompany his brother and let the party go. Ma Chao seeing Zhang Fei coming with so small a force, signaled with his spear to his array to retire a bowshot, and Zhang Fei's troops halted. When all his troops had taken their places, Zhang Fei set octane-serpent halberd and rode out.

“Do you know who I am?” shouted Zhang Fei. “I am Zhang Fei of Yan!”

Ma Chao replied, “My family having been noble for many generations; I am not likely to know any rustic dolts!”

This reply upset Zhang Fei, and in a moment the two steeds were rushing toward each other, both men with poised spears. The fight began and continued for a hundred bouts. Neither had the advantage.

“A veritable tiger of a leader,” sighed Liu Bei.

But Liu Bei felt that Zhang Fei was running a risk, wherefore he sounded the gong as a signal to cease the fight. And each drew off to his own side. Zhang Fei rested his steed for a time, then, leaving his helmet, he wound a turban about his head, mounted, and rode out to renew the fight. Ma Chao also came out, and the duel continued.

Presently Liu Bei thought his brother in danger. So he girded on his armor and went down into the plain. He watched till they had fought another hundred bouts, and then as both seemed to wax fiercer than ever, he gave the signal again to cease the battle. Both drew off and returned each to his own side.

It was then getting late, and Liu Bei said to his brother, “You would better retire for today; he is a terrible opponent. Try him again tomorrow.”

But Zhang Fei's spirit was roused, and was it likely that such advice would be palatable?

“No,” shouted he, “I will die and not come back!”

“But it is late; you cannot go on fighting,” said Liu Bei.

“Let them bring torches, and we will have a night battle,” said Zhang Fei.

Ma Chao having mounted a fresh steed, now rode out and shouted, “Dare you try a night battle, Zhang Fei?”

Zhang Fei's excitement rose higher. He hastily changed horses with his brother and rode forth.

“If I do not capture you, I will not go back to the Pass,” said Zhang Fei.

“And if I do not overcome you, I will not return to the camp,” said Ma Chao.

Both sides cheered. They lit many thousand torches till it seemed as light as day, and the two great generals went to the front to fight. At the twentieth bout Ma Chao turned his steed and tied.

“Whither are you going?” called out Zhang Fei.

The fact was that Ma Chao had begun to see he could not win in direct and simple combat, so he thought to try a ruse. By a false flight, as though he knew he had lost, he would inveigle Zhang Fei into pursuit. He picked up a copper mace secretly and kept a careful watch on his opponent for the most favorable moment to strike. But Ma Chao's flight only put Zhang Fei upon his guard, and when the moment came for the blow with the mace he dodged, so that the weapon flew harmlessly past his ear. Then Zhang Fei turned his horse. Whereupon Ma Chao began to pursue. Then Zhang Fei pulled up, took his bow, fitted an arrow to the string, and let fly at Ma Chao. But Ma Chao also dodged, and the arrow flew by. Then each returned to his own side.

Then Liu Bei came out to the front of his battle line and called out, “Note well, O Ma Chao, that I, who have never treated people other than with kindness and justice and truth and sincerity, swear that I will not take advantage of your period of repose to pursue or attack. Wherefore you may rest awhile in peace.”

Ma Chao, hearing these words, withdrew guarding the rear, and the other generals one by one returned, while Liu Bei drew off his army toward the Pass.

Early next day Zhang Fei was once more going down out of the Pass to fight, when they told him that the Directing Instructor had arrived. Liu Bei went to receive him, and Zhuge Liang at once began to speak of Ma Chao.

“He is the most terrible leader of the age; if he fights a desperate battle with Zhang Fei, loss of a general will ensue. So I have come as quickly as I could. I left Mianzhu in the safe hands of Zhao Yun and Huang Zhong. I think I have a little ruse left that will bring Ma Chao over to our side.”

“Now I have seen the man. I greatly admire him,” said Liu Bei. “If we could only win him over!”

“Then listen, my lord,” said Zhuge Liang. “Zhang Lu greatly desires the title of 'Prince of Hanzhong.' Among his most intimate subordinates, I know Yang Song open to bribery. So we will send a person secretly to see him and give him gold and silver and so win his support. This done, we will write to Zhang Lu and tell him that you are set upon taking Yiazhou from its present ruler, which will give an opportunity to wipe out the enmity he has so long nourished against Liu Zhang, and that the reward of his remaining firmly on our side to the end will be that you will memorialize the Throne for the coveted title for him. This will make him order Ma Chao to return, and, when that is done, I shall find a means of winning him over.”

Liu Bei wrote a letter and sent it by the hand of Sun Qian together with gold and pearls. Sun Qian went by secret roads to give these to Yang Song. And when he found Yang Song and explained his mission in private, he was quickly led into the presence of Zhang Lu.

“How can Liu Bei memorialize the Throne to confer on me the rank of a prince when he is but a simple General himself?” asked Zhang Lu, when he understood the offer and its conditions.

“He is an Imperial Uncle;” said Yang Song, “with such a rank he could present such a memorial.”

Zhang Lu assented. He sent orders to Ma Chao to cease fighting, and Sun Qian remained as the guest of Yang Song till he should see whether Ma Chao would obey the command. Before long the messenger returned with a word from Ma Chao that he could not cease fighting till he had been successful. A second and third messenger returned with a similar response.

“This Ma Chao is untrustworthy,” said Yang Song. “He will not withdraw his soldiers because he contemplates rebellion. That is the real reason.”

Yang Song set stories afloat rumoring: “Ma Chao desires to make himself the ruler of the west and has said that he will no longer be content with subordinate rank. And he means to avenge the death of his father.”

The rumors came to the ear of Zhang Lu, and he asked Yang Song what should be done. Yang Song proposed, saying, “Give Ma Chao a limit of a month in order to accomplish his task, provided he consents to three conditions. And if he does not agree, he will have to be put to death. The three conditions are the capture of the Western Land of Rivers, the head of Liu Zhang, and the repulse of the Jingzhou troops. If he fails in any one of these, just bring his head. Meanwhile, Zhang Wei should be sent as guard at one of the strategic points which will control Ma Chao's army in case of rebellion.”

When Ma Chao heard the three demands made on him, he was greatly troubled, saying, “What can such a charge mean?”

After taking counsel with Ma Dai, it seemed best to suspend fighting, and the army returned.

But Yang Song had not yet attained his end, so he said to Zhang Lu, “Ma Chao's return with an army will be a danger, and hence all the points of vantage on the homeward road must be guarded so that to stop him.”

Thus Ma Chao was helpless and could see no way out of the difficulty.

Then Zhuge Liang said to his lord, “Now is my chance to use my little three inches of unworn tongue; Ma Chao is in a fix. I am going to his camp to persuade him to come over to your side.”

“But I do not like you to run such a risk, Instructor. You are my most necessary support, and if anything happened to you, what should I do?”

Zhuge Liang was set upon going and persisted in his request. Liu Bei again and again refused. At this juncture a messenger came with letters from Zhao Yun. Liu Bei called him in and questioned him. He was Li Hui of Jianning, the man who had formerly remonstrated so earnestly with Liu Zhang.

“You once pleaded with your master to keep me out; why are you here now?”

“Because the prudent bird chooses its perch and the wise person his master. I did attempt to dissuade Liu Zhang of Yiazhou from a course which I felt to be disastrous, and thereby fulfilled my duty as his servant. He rejected my counsel, and I knew he would fail. Your liberality, O General, has won over all the region, and success must be yours. I wish to serve under your banner.”

“Your services will surely be of great advantage to me, Sir,” said Liu Bei.

Then Li Hui began to talk of Ma Chao, “I knew him when we were in Longxi together. He is now in great straits, and I may be able to talk him over. What say you?”

“Just the man to go instead of me,” interjected Zhuge Liang. “But what arguments will you use?”

Li Hui leaned over and whispered in his ear thus and thus. What he said seemed to please Zhuge Liang mightily, and he was bidden to go forthwith.

Arrived at the camp, Li Hui sent in his name, at which Ma Chao remarked, “Yes; I know him—a glib and specious persuader. I know what he has come for too.”

So Ma Chao placed a score of armed ruffians in hiding about his tent and told them to cut the visitor to pieces if the signal was given.

Then the guest was led in and came walking proudly. His host remained seated stiff and upright. Ma Chao spoke roughly, saying, “What are you come for?”

“I am here as persuader.”

“This sword here in the scabbard is newly ground. You may try me by words, but if the words do not penetrate, I shall ask you to try the sword.”

Li Hui smiled, saying, “O, General, evil is not far off. However, I am thinking the newly ground sword will not be tried on my head. You will want to try it on your own!”

“What evil were you talking about?”

“The worst vilification could not hide the beauty of Lady Xi Shi of Yue, nor could the most fulsome praise gloze over the ugliness of Lady Wuyan of Qi ((two states of old)). The sun rises to the meridian and then declines; the moon waxes to the full and then wanes. All things obey the one law. Now, General, you are at enmity with Cao Cao for your father's death, and in Longxi you carry a stubborn, grinding hate for your family's death. You can neither rescue Liu Zhang by repulsing the army from Jingzhou, nor can you settle Yang Song by getting an interview with Zhang Lu. The whole world now holds no place for a person without a lord; and if you experience further defeats, like that one on River Wei, or the loss of Jicheng, will you not be too shamed to look any human in the face?”

Ma Chao bowed his head, saying, “You speak well, Sir. But I am helpless.”

“Now that you listen to me, I would ask why those fearsome ruffians are in hiding by your tent?” continued Li Hui.

Ma Chao, suddenly stricken with shame, ordered them to retire. Li Hui continued his speech.

“Liu Bei, the Imperial Uncle, is considerate to his subordinates, and I am certain he will succeed, and so I have forsaken Liu Zhang to cleave to him. Your honored father joined him in destroying rebels. Why do you not flee from darkness into the light? Thereby you would avenge your father and become famous.”

Ma Chao, convinced of the wisdom of the course thus recommended, proved his conversion by sending for Yang Bo and slaying him forthwith. Taking with him the head of his victim, Ma Chao accompanied Li Hui to the Pass and tendered his submission. Liu Bei welcomed him warmly and treated him as a highly honored guest.

Ma Chao bowed his head, saying, “Meeting you, O Illustrious Lord, is like seeing the clear sky when the clouds have been swept aside.”

When Sun Qian returned from Yang Song's place, Liu Bei detached a force to go to the capture of Chengdu, left two generals, Meng Da and Huo Jun to guard Jiameng Pass, and made a triumphant entry into Mianzhu with the welcome of Zhao Yun and Huang Zhong.

Two generals of the Western Land of Rivers, Ma Han and Liu Jun, came to oppose Liu Bei, but Zhao Yun went out against them while Liu Bei was entertaining Ma Chao at a banquet on the city wall. Ere it had concluded, Zhao Yun slew both the generals and brought their heads to the banquet chamber. This exploit put Ma Chao on his mettle and doubled his respect for the conquerors.

“Let not my lord attack,” said Ma Chao. “I will make Liu Zhang surrender of his own accord. Should he resist, my brother Ma Dai and I will take the city and offer it to you with both hands.” Liu Bei was very pleased with the course of events; the day was indeed one of rejoicing.

But Liu Zhang was greatly distressed at the news of his fresh misfortunes, which reached him with the return of his defeated soldiers. He barred the gates and stopped all exits. Before long came news of the approach of Ma Chao with an army of rescue. The Imperial Protector then ventured to mount the walls, and soon Ma Chao and Ma Dai rode up and stood below the ramparts.

And Ma Chao called out, “I wish to speak with Liu Zhang.”

Then Liu Zhang showed himself, and Ma Chao plunged into the matter without more ado.

“I took the leadership of Zhang Lu's army to rescue Yiazhou, little thinking that, under the calumnious advice of Yang Song, Zhang Lu would try to slay me. However, now I have gone over to the side of Liu Bei, the Imperial Uncle, and advise you, Sir, to do the same, you and all your officers. Thereby you will all escape harm. If any one holds on a misguided course, I shall take the city.”

Such words came as a shock, and Liu Zhang paled. His feelings overcame him and he swooned.

When he came to his senses, he muttered, “I am stupid and I am sorry. Better open the gates and end it. The city will be saved.”

“No, no,” cried Dong He. “There are thirty thousand of good soldiers in the city and ample money and stores for a year to come. Hold out!”

But Liu Zhang was broken, saying, “My father and I have ruled Shu for twenty years and have done no particular good for the people. And we have fought for three years; the grass has been be stained with the blood of my people; and the fault is mine. I could not bear it, and so I see no better way than to surrender, whereby I may bring peace to the people.”

Those about him wept. One man spoke, saying, “You speak as Heaven guides you.”

Turning toward him they recognized a man of Baxi named Qiao Zhou, who had the reputation of being an astrologer.

“I have studied the aspect of the heavens and a multitude of stars gathered over the west, one of which shone as the full moon: a right royal star. And I recall a popular couplet of last year:

“When comes the ruler from the east,

Then may you on new rice feast.

“None can withstand the decree of the Most High.”

Liu Ba and Huang Quan, who heard these words, were very angry at such a speech and rose up to smite the speaker. But Liu Zhang stayed them.

Next came news that Xu Jing, the Governor of the Shu District, had gone over to the invaders. This was the last blow. Liu Zhang went home weeping.

Next day they reported that Liu Bei, the Imperial Uncle, had sent Jian Yong as legate to visit Liu Zhang and he was even then at the city gate. Jian Yong was admitted, and he entered, riding in a carriage and looking about him most haughtily. Suddenly he was hailed from the street by a man with a sword in his hand, who cried, “You have got your wish, wretched creature, and you seem to think there is no one to compare with you. But do not look so contemptuously at us of Shu.”

Jian Yong quickly got out of his carriage to speak to the speaker, who was a man of Mianzhu named Qin Mi.

“Worthy brother,” said Jian Yong, “I did not recognize you. I pray you not to be angry.”

Both then went to visit Liu Zhang, and they spoke of the liberality and broad-mindedness of Liu Bei, said he had no intention to harm any one, and praised him to such effect that Liu Zhang then and there made up his mind finally that he would give up the struggle. So he treated Jian Yong very honorably that day.

And the next day, taking his seal and insignia if of office and his archives, he accompanied Jian Yong out of the city and went to Liu Bei's camp. Liu Bei came out in person to receive him.

Taking Liu Zhang by the hand, Liu Bei wept, saying, “It is not that I wish to act cruelly or wrongly; I am the victim of circumstances and cannot help it.”

They entered the camp together, where the seal of office and the documents changed hands. Afterwards they rode into the city side by side. The people gave Liu Bei a cordial welcome, burning incense and illuminating the city. The victor went to the residence of the chief of the region, where he took his seat and was saluted by all the subordinate officials.

However, Huang Quan and Liu Ba stayed away from the ceremony. This annoyed the more violent of Liu Bei's supporters, and they wished to kill the delinquents. But Liu Bei would not allow violence and threatened condign punishment to any one who might interfere with these two. When the reception was over, Liu Bei went to visit the two recalcitrants, whereupon both came out and made their obeisance.

Said Zhuge Liang to Liu Bei, “We have vanquished, and all opposition in Yiazhou is at an end. But there cannot be two rulers, so you must remove Liu Zhang to Jingzhou.”

“But I do not wish to exile him,” said Liu Bei.

“He lost his prestige through weakness. If you are weak and undecided, you also will not last long.”

Liu Bei saw his advice was good, and so he gave a great banquet whereat he begged Liu Zhang to pack up his treasures and prepare to move. He gave the dispossessed Imperial Protector the title General Who Spreads Prestige. Liu Zhang went away to Gongan in Jingzhou, taking with him his family and all his possessions.

Liu Bei thus became Imperial Protector of Yiazhou. He conferred gifts on the civil and military officers who joined him, confirming their ranks and titles. Yan Yan was made General of the Front Army; Fa Zheng, Governor of the Shu District; Dong He and Xu Jing, Imperial Commanders; Liu Ba, General of the Left Army; Huang Quan, General of the Right Army; and others of Shu officers whose aid had been conspicuous were given high ranks and finer titles under the new rule, and the total of more than sixty of them were well rewarded.

Naturally, honors were distributed freely to Liu Bei's immediate helpers, to whose efforts he owed his position. Zhuge Liang was held Directing Instructor; Guan Yu, General Who Destroys Rebels and Lord of Hanshou; Zhang Fei, General Who Subdues Rebels and Lord of Xinxian; Zhao Yun, General Who Guards the West; Huang Zhong, General Who Conquers the West; Wei Yan, General Who Wages Successful War; Ma Chao, General Who Pacifies the West. Sun Qian, Jian Yong, Mi Zhu, Mi Fang, Ma Liang, Ma Su, Jiang Wan, Yi Ji, Liu Feng, Guan Ping, Liao Hua, Zhou Cang, and others, many of whom had come to Liu Bei from Jingzhou, received promotions and rewards.

In addition, a special gift of five hundred ounces of gold, a thousand ounces of silver, much copper money, and a thousand rolls of Xichuan silk, was sent to Guan Yu. And all the military and civil officers were given appointments. Huge numbers of oxen and horses were slaughtered for banquets to the army, and the contents of the granaries were given to the common people. So that there were great rejoicings.

Yiazhou being settled, Liu Bei next desired to confiscate the lands of the more famous of the inhabitants about Capital Chengdu and divide them among his officers.

But here Zhao Yun and others dissuaded him, saying, “The sufferings of the people have been severe and losses great; it would be wise policy to let them settle down to their occupations as soon as possible. It would be wrong to reward our own people at the expense of these people.”

Liu Bei listened and gave in with good grace.

To Zhuge Liang, Liu Bei assigned the revision of the laws, the punishments to be made, on the whole, heavy.

Then Fa Zheng spoke up, “The founder of the Hans, Liu Bang, drew up three chapters of law, and the people were all profoundly affected by his virtue. I would rather that the laws be few and liberal that people may be comforted.”

Zhuge Liang replied, “You only look at one side. The laws of Qin 1 were fiercely cruel and provoked resentment among the people; it was fitting that the Supreme Ancestor should temper them with kindness. Under the weak administration of Liu Zhang, there has never been an efficient government, and there is a lack of respect for the law. The proper relationship between ruler and minister has been gradually obscured. Favor has been the means of rising, and the highest in rank have been the basest; kindness has been extended into license, and the most benefited have been the most contemptuous. And thereby have crept in many evils. Now I mean to inculcate respect for the dignity of the law, and kindness shall follow its attainment: there shall be moderation in conferring rank, but honor shall really follow on such promotion. In the mutual cooperation of kindness and honor and in proper distinction between superiors and inferiors lies the efficiency of a government.”

Fa Zheng had no argument to oppose. In due time all became perfectly tranquil, and all the forty-one counties, with their respective garrisons, were peaceful and contented.

As Governor of the Shu District, Fa Zheng earned much hatred, caring for no one but himself, and one person told of the complaints to Zhuge Liang, urging his dismissal.

But Zhuge Liang referred to his meritorious services, saying, “When my lord was in Jingzhou, fearful of his enemy on the north and trembling lest he be attacked from the east, Fa Zheng was his sure support. In these prosperous days one can hardly begin to discipline him. Could we reasonably forbid him following somewhat his own way?”

So no investigation was made, but Fa Zheng heard of the complaints and corrected his faults.

One day, when Liu Bei and Zhuge Liang were resting and at leisure, Guan Ping arrived with a letter from his father, thanking his elder brother for the handsome gifts. Making obeisance and handing in his letter, Guan Ping said, “My father was anxious to come into Yiazhou to try conclusions with Ma Chao.”

Said Liu Bei, “If he were to come and fight, I fear they would not both survive.”

“There is nothing to be anxious about,” said Zhuge Liang. “I will write to Guan Yu.”

Liu Bei feared that his brother's impulsive temperament might lead to trouble, so he told Zhuge Liang to compose a letter and send back by Guan Ping.

When Guan Ping came again to his father, the first question was: “Did you mention the contest with Ma Chao?”

Then the letter was produced, and this is what it said:

“I hear you are anxious to decide whether of the twain, Ma Chao or yourself, is the better man. Now I can measure

Ma Chao. He may be unusually brave and bold, but he is only of the class of Ying Bu and Peng Yue of old. He might be a worthy rival of your younger brother, but he is far from the standard set by you, O Lord of the Beautiful Beard. You have a most important charge. If you come into the Western Land of Rivers, and Jingzhou should be lost, would you not be guilty of a terrible failure? I think you will see this.”

Guan Yu stroked his long beard and smiled as he read the letter.

“The Instructor knows me thoroughly,” said he to himself.

He showed the letter to his clients and friends and thought no more of going westward.

The successes of Liu Bei in the west had been duly noted by Sun Quan, who thought he was surely now going to obtain the much-coveted Jingzhou. So he called in Zhang Zhao and Gu Yong to ask advice.

Sun Quan said, “When Liu Bei occupied Jingzhou temporarily, he pledged he would return the region to the South Land when he would possess Yiazhou. Now he has taken the forty-one counties of the Western Land of Rivers; if Jingzhou is not returned, I will take it by force.”

Zhang Zhao said, “I have already a scheme that will need no fighting; Liu Bei will offer the place to you with both hands.”

In Shu there shine new sun and moon,

Wu dreams Jingzhou will be his soon.

We shall see in the next chapter the scheme to recover the much-desired region.