Chapter Ninety-Four Willows fly in Chang’an (I)

　　He said:　　"The upright man values only righteousness, as the fine steed needs not the lash.　　In life, the highest worth lies in mutual understanding; what need have we of gold and silver?"　　Now, Zhang Shuo, having received the command of Emperor Xuanzong to prepare for the grand rite of Feng and Shan at Mount Tai, when all arrangements were nearly set, turned in thought with unease. In his heart he said: "At such a time, surely the frontier generals will grow lax in vigilance. Should the Turks seize this chance to invade, it would be a dire calamity. Better to reinforce the borders, lest misfortune strike."　　As the candlelight flickered, he mused again: "This grand sacrifice—who among men of merit, who among men of talent, would yet be willing to guard the frontiers?" Finding the matter hard to settle, Zhang Shuo sent his servants to summon Pei Guangting, a Langzhong of the Ministry of War, to confer with him.　　At the hour of the dog, Pei Guangting entered the mansion, and after salutations asked: "My lord Zhang summons me in haste; what grave matter lies at hand?" Zhang Shuo pointed to the map upon the table, toward the western regions, and said: "In days past, when Emperor Gaozong performed the Feng and Shan rites, rebel traitors led tens of thousands in an attempt upon his life. From this it is clear the safety of the borders is of utmost concern. Now that our Supreme One prepares for Feng and Shan, should the northern tribes move against us, what then! Therefore—" At this Pei Guangting, seeing Zhang Shuo’s sigh, feared that peril might arise, and quickly said: "The Feng and Shan rites are the Son of Heaven reporting his accomplished labors unto Heaven above. The Emperor must perform them; this is the supreme ceremony