Chapter XXXVI.— About Bridges in Soochow and Turnips in Shantung. (兩羨慕)
THERE was a Shantung man who heard about the height and length of Soochow bridges. He did not mind the distance, and made up his mind to take a trip there to see them. When he got half way, he happened to meet a Soochow man. That Soochow man had heard that Shantung turnips are exceptionally large, and wished to go to Shantung to see the turnips. Consequently the two met, each having a hobby. The Soochow man said first: "Brother, you need not go; as the distance is so great and the roads so dusty, it would be well if I give you a description of the bridges. On the 3rd day of the 6th Moon, a year ago, a man fell down from the bridge. Until the 3rd day of the 6th Moon this year, that man has not reached the surface of the water yet. Just think whether that bridge is high or not." The Shantung man said: "Thank you for your information; did you not say that you wish to see the turnips of our country. I advise you also not to go. If you wait till next year about this time, the turnip will naturally grow and reach your Soochow city."
Chapter XXXVII.—Ingenious Talking. (活動話)
A FATHER taught his son thus in speaking, that when anyone speaks he should use evasive language and not speak hard truths. His son asked the father what is meant by ingenious talking. His father taught him thus: "Let me tell you. If a neighber asks to borrow something, depending on what he asks for, never say that you have everything nor say you have some of the things. Say, 'there may be some at home and may not be any at home.' That is regarded as ingenious talking. Remember and do not forget that."
