ting of repeated interpretations, and so that their conversation would be like that of members of the same family." 初上習蒙古語及平囘部金川皆習囘語西番語茲因班禪來覲復習唐古特語故重譯來朝告語如一家.
The 聖武記 here explains that in ancient times the Dalais and Pan-ch‘ans would simply kneel before the Emperor, without prostrating themselves, on account of their high rank. On this occasion, however, the Pan-ch‘an so earnestly besought to be allowed to kotow that the Emperor, convinced of his sincerity, permitted him to do so. [舊以達賴班禪有高行入覲惟跽不拜至是班禪固請拜上嘉其恪誠從之.] The necessity for the "kotow" could have perhaps influenced the Dalais and Pan-ch‘ans in their refusal to visit the Imperial Court, as they considered themselves to be the Emperor's equal or superior in rank.
The first interview between Ch‘ien Lung and his illustrious guest took place in a secluded part of the Palace at Jehol. Only the Metropolitan [章嘉呼圖克圖] was allowed to be present. The Pan-ch‘an was seated on an elevated seat, while the Emperor sat on a lower one between the Metropolitan and the Pan-ch‘an. The subjects of this conversation, which is reported to have lasted about three hours, were the chief rules and principles of the True Law of Buddhism.
At a later conversation of a more public character, the Lama having craved permission to present a request,
