Confucius, the Great Teacher; A Study (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1890 Excerpt: ...of his capital with his wife by his side, whilst Confucius followed in another chariot. When the people saw him they shouted out, " Look, there goes AN ATTEMPT ON HIS LIFE. 151 vice driving in front, with virtue following behind " The sage saw at once that he had been placed in a false position, and determined upon seeking some other refuge. It was whilst travelling towards the South, on the borders of the principality of Sung, that one day, being weary, he dismounted from his chariot and seated himself in the shade of a wide-spreading tree. In order to pass the time profitably, he began to explain to his disciples the origin and intention of the various rites. Whilst so occupied, an officer of high military rank, in the service of the Prince of Sung, passed by. He no sooner saw Confucius, towards whom he entertained an intense dislike, than he drew his sword and rushed towards him, with the intention of killing him. Fortunately the philosopher caught sight of him in time, and, retaining his presence of mind, effected his escape. His companions were panic-stricken, and impatient of their master's calmness, less perhaps on his account than on their own, urged him to greater speed. "Why should I hasten?" replied Confucius; "if Heaven protects me, why need I care for this man's anger?" This answer did not reassure his friends; perhaps they felt themselves unworthy of participation in Heaven's favour, for they dispersed and fled. Left to himself, and driven from the right road, Confucius directed his steps to the capital of the state of Ching, which he reached so utterly exhausted that he was obliged to sit down on a stone outside the city gates. Here he was seen by some of the inhabitants, who informed one of his disciples, who ha...