KAI LUNG'S GOLDEN HOURS
obliterating strokes the words, 'Concerning Spring.' Where else can be found so novel a conception combined with so unique a way of carrying it out? What other poem contains so many thoughts that one instinctively remembers as having heard before, so many involved allusions that baffle the imagination of the keenest, and so much sound in so many words? With the possible exception of Ming-hu's masterpiece, 'The Empty Coffin,' what other work so skilfully conveys the impression of being taken down further than one can ever again come up and then suddenly upraised beyond any possible descent? Where else can be found so complete a defiance of all that has hitherto been deemed essential, and, to insert a final wedge, what other poem is half so long?"
"Your criticism is severe but just," replied the Sovereign—"except that part having reference to Ming-hu. Nevertheless, the atmosphere of the proposal, though reasonable, looms a degree stormily into a troubled future. Can it be permissible even for"
"Omnipotence!" exclaimed the seer.
"The title is well recalled," admitted the Emperor. "Yet although unquestionably omnipotent there must surely be some limits to our powers in dealing with so old established a system as that of the examinations."
"Who can doubt a universal admission that the composer of 'Concerning Spring' is capable of doing anything?" was the profound reply. "Let the mandate be sent out—but, to an obvious end, let it be withheld until the eve of the competitions."
"The moment of hesitancy has faded; go forth in the certainty, esteemed," said the Emperor reassuringly. "You have carried your message with a
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