却说曹操兴师西征分兵三队，前部先锋夏侯渊、张郃；操自领诸将居中；后部曹仁、夏侯惇，押运粮草。早有细作报入汉中来。张鲁与弟张卫，商议退敌之策。卫曰：「汉中最险，无如阳平关。可于关之左右，依山傍林，下十余个寨栅，迎敌曹兵。
The expedition against Hanchung went out in three divisions, with Hsiahou Yüan as leader of the van, Ts‘ao Ts‘ao in command of the centre and Ts‘ao Jên bringing up the rear. Hsiahou Tun was in charge of the commissariat. The spies soon carried the news into Hanchung, and Chang Lu called in his brother Wei to consult how to meet the attack.
兄在汉宁，多拨粮草应付。」
Said Wei, “The strategical point to hold is Yangp‘ing Pass, and there should be half a score of stockades there with the forest to support them. You, my brother, should make your dépôt of supplies at Hanning.”
张鲁依言，遣大将杨昂、杨任，与其弟即日起程。军马到阳平关，下寨已定。夏侯渊、张郃前军随到；闻阳平关已有准备，离关一十五里下寨。是夜军士疲困，各自歇息。忽寨后一把火起，杨昂、杨任两路兵杀来劫寨。
Thereupon two captains, Yang Ang and Yang Jên, were sent with Chang Wei to the Pass, and they built the stockades. Soon the vanguard of the enemy arrived and camped at a point fifteen li away. The soldiers were fatigued after the long march, and all lay down to rest without placing proper guards. Suddenly the camp was attacked in the rear by the two Yangs from different points. Hsiahou Yüan and Chang Ho mounted quickly and tried to beat off the attackers, but the enemy poured in all round, and Ts‘ao’s men suffered great loss. They returned to the main body to tell of their defeat, and their chief abused them for their want of care.
夏侯渊、张郃急上得马，四下里大兵拥入，曹兵大败，退见曹操。操怒曰：「汝二人行军许多年，岂不知『兵若远行疲困，须防劫寨』？如何不作准备？」欲斩二人，以明军法。众官告免。
“Old soldiers like you should have known better and taken precautions against a raid of the camp when the enemy knew your men were exhausted by a long march.”
操次日自引兵为前队；见山势险𫫇，林木丛杂，不知路径，恐有伏兵，即引军回寨，谓许褚、徐晃二将曰：「吾若知此处如此险𫫇，必不起兵来。」许褚曰：「兵已至此，主公不可惮劳。」次日操上马，只带许褚、徐晃二人，来看张卫寨栅。
He even desired to put them to death as a warning, but their fellow-officers interceded and he spared them. Soon Ts‘ao himself marched in the van. Then he saw the dangerous and evil nature of the place, with its thick growth of trees, and as he knew nothing of the roads and was fearful of an ambush he returned to his camp. Calling up his two henchmen, Hsü Ch‘u and Hsü Huang, he said, “Had I known the dangerous nature of the place I would never have come.” Hsü Ch‘u replied, “The soldiers are here now, my lord, and you cannot recoil before the hardships.”
三匹马转过山坡，早望见张卫寨栅。操扬鞭遥指，谓二将曰：「如此坚固，急切难下！」
Next day Ts‘ao Ts‘ao with only his two guards rode out to reconnoitre the enemy’s camp. As they rode over the hills Ts‘ao Ts‘ao pointed out the position with his whip and said, “It will be very difficult to reduce a place as strong as this.”
言未已，背后一声喊起，箭如雨发。杨昂、杨任分两路杀来。操大惊。许褚大呼曰：「吾当敌贼！徐公明善保主公！」说罢，提刀纵马向前，力敌二将。杨昂、杨任不能当许褚之勇，回马退去，其余不敢向前。徐晃保著曹操奔过山坡，前麺又一军到；
Just then there arose a shout in their rear and a shower of arrows fell about them. The two Yangs were attacking and the danger became great. “Friend Hsü, you look after our lord;” cried Hsü Ch‘u, “I can hold the enemy.” He galloped out and the two leaders took to flight, while their men scattered. In the meantime Hsü Huang led his master over the hills. Soon he met a troop of soldiers led by Hsiahou Yüan and Chang Ho, who had heard the sound of fighting and had come to the rescue, and Ts‘ao Ts‘ao got back safely to camp. The four captains were rewarded.
看时，却是夏侯渊、张郃二将，听得喊声，故引军杀来接应。于是杀退杨昂、杨任，救得曹操回寨。操重赏四将。自此两边相拒，五十余日，只不交战。曹操传令退军。贾诩曰：「贼势未见强弱，主公何故自退耶﹖」操曰：「吾料贼兵每日提备，急难取胜。
For fifty days the two armies held each other at bay without coming to a fight. At the end of this time, orders were given to retire. “We have not tried the strength of the enemy,” said Chia Hsü. “You should not retire, my lord.”
吾以退军为名，使贼懈而无备，然后分轻骑抄袭其后，必胜贼矣。」贾诩曰：「丞相神机，不可测也。」
“I see that they are always on the alert,” said Ts‘ao Ts‘ao. “I am only retiring to put them off their guard. By and by I will send some light horse to attack their rear. I shall defeat them then.” “Ah! your skill is unfathomable!” cried Chia Hsü.
于是令夏侯渊、张郃分兵两路，各引轻骑三千，取小路抄阳平关后。曹操一麺引大军拔寨侭起。杨昂听得曹兵退，请杨任商议，欲乘势击之。杨任曰：「操诡计极多，未知真实，不可追赶。」杨昂曰：「公不往，吾当自去。」杨任苦谏不从。
Two parties were then sent to get round behind the Pass by unfrequented roads, while Ts‘ao Ts‘ao broke up his camp and led his main body backward. When Yang Ang heard of the retreat he thought it would be a good chance to attack, but Yang Jên, remembering the cunning of their opponent, opposed it. Yang Ang was wilful and said, “I shall go; you may come or not, as you wish.”
杨昂侭提五寨军马前进，只留些少军士守寨。是日大雾迷漫，对麺不相见。杨昂军至半路，不能行，且权扎住。
In spite of the protestations of his colleague, Yang Ang marched, taking with him the men of five camps and leaving only a few defenders. The day he set out was very foggy, so that one could hardly see his neighbour’s face, and soon the force got into difficulties and could not advance. They bivouacked on the road.
却说夏侯渊一军抄过山后，见重雾垂空，又闻人语马嘶，恐有伏兵，急催人马行动，大雾中误走到杨昂寨前。守寨军士，听得马蹄响，只道是杨昂兵回，开门纳之。曹军一拥而入，见是空寨，便就寨中放起火来。五寨军士，皆弃寨而走。
So the invaders took possession of the Pass, and its late defenders, Chang Wei and Yang Jên, had to go back and report failure. Chang Wei laid the blame on his companion, saying the Pass could not be held after its supporting positions had been lost. Chang Lu threatened to behead Yang Jên for his failure. Yang said he had tried to prevent the rashness of his brother and begged to be allowed to make another attack. If he failed he would abide by the consequences without protest. Chang Lu took his formal pledge to succeed, gave him two legions and sent him away. He marched to Nanch'êng and made a stockade.
比及雾散，杨任领兵来救，与夏侯渊战不数合，背后张郃兵到。杨任杀条出路，奔回南郑。杨昂待要回时，已被夏侯渊、张郃两个占了寨栅。背后曹操大队军马赶来。两下夹攻，四边无路。杨昂欲突阵而出，正撞著张郃。两个交手，被张郃杀死。
Now, Hsiahou Yüan was out with a reconnoitring force behind the hills when they heard the voices of men and the neighing of horses. In the dense fog they could see nothing, but fearing an ambush they hastened to retire. They lost their way and presently stumbled on the deserted camp. The few defenders thought their comrades had returned, so they threw open the gates to let them in. One camp was empty and there they raised a great blaze, which frightened those in the other camps so that they fled. As soon as the fog cleared, Yang Jên came to the rescue, but as more of Ts‘ao’s men came up, the force was too strong for him and he quickly fled toward Nanch'êng. By and by, when Yang Ang returned, he found his camp in the possession of Ts‘ao Ts‘ao’s men.
败兵回投阳平关，来见张卫。原来卫知二将败走，诸营已失，半夜弃关，奔回去了。曹操遂得阳平关并诸寨。
Soon Ts‘ao Ts‘ao’s main army came up, and Yang was between two forces. There seemed no other way but to make a dash for it. Falling in with Ho, the two engaged and Yang Ang fell. Those who escaped carried the news of the disaster to Chang Wei, who abandoned the Pass and fled.
张卫、杨任回见张鲁。卫言二将失了隘口，因此守关不住。张鲁大怒，欲斩杨任。任曰：「某曾谏杨昂，休追操兵。他不肯听信，故有此败。任再乞一军前去挑战，必斩曹操。如不胜，甘当军令。」张鲁取了军令状。杨任上马，引二万军离南郑下寨。
So the invaders took possession of the Pass, and its late defenders, Chang Wei and Yang Jên, had to go back and report failure. Chang Wei laid the blame on his companion, saying the Pass could not be held after its supporting positions had been lost. Chang Lu threatened to behead Yang Jên for his failure. Yang said he had tried to prevent the rashness of his brother and begged to be allowed to make another attack. If he failed he would abide by the consequences without protest. Chang Lu took his formal pledge to succeed, gave him two legions and sent him away. He marched to Nanch'êng and made a stockade.
却说曹操提军将进，先令夏侯渊领五千军，往南郑路上哨探，正迎著杨任军马，两军䙓开。任遣部将昌奇出马，与渊交锋；战不三合，被渊一刀斩于马下。杨任自挺枪出马，与渊战三十余合，不分胜负。渊佯败而走，任从后追来；被渊用拖刀计，斩于马下。军士大败而回。
Before Ts‘ao Ts‘ao made any further advance he sent Hsiahou Yüan, with half a legion, to reconnoitre the road and they fell in with the force led by Yang Jên. Both sides drew up their battle array. From Yang’s side went out Ch‘ang Ch‘i to engage Hsiahou Yüan, who disposed of him in the third bout. Then Yang Jên set his spear and rode to the front. They two fought near two score bouts and neither could claim victory. Then Hsiahou Yüan pretended defeat and fled. The other rushed in pursuit. The fugitive suddenly employed the Parthian stab and killed his pursuer. His men ran away.
曹操知夏侯渊斩了杨任，即时进兵，直抵南郑下寨。张鲁慌聚文武商议。阎圃曰：「某保一人，可敌曹操手下诸将。」鲁问是谁。圃曰：「南安庞德，前随马超，投降主公；后马超往西川庞德卧病不曾行。现今蒙主公恩养，何不令此人去﹖」
As soon as Ts‘ao Ts‘ao knew of the death of this leader of the other side he brought up his army, marched straightway to Nanch'êng and camped. Chang Lu became alarmed and called a council. “I can propose a man able to stand against the best leader of the enemy,” said Yen Pu. “Who is he?” asked Chang Lu. “P‘ang Tê, of Nanan. He surrendered at the same time as Ma Ch‘ao, but could not go with him into Ssŭch‘uan as he was ill. If you treated him generously he would save you.' ”
张鲁大喜，即召庞德至，厚加赏劳；点一万军马，令庞德出。离城十余里，与曹兵相对，庞德出马搦战。曹操在渭桥时，深知庞德之勇，乃嘱诸将曰：「庞德乃西凉勇将，原属马超；今虽依张鲁未称其心。吾欲得此人。汝等须皆与缓斗，使其力乏，然后擒之。」
P‘ang Tê was summoned. He came, was loaded with gifts and given a force of one legion, with which he marched and camped ten li from the city, near the besieging force. His camp made, P‘ang Tê rode out and challenged. Now Ts‘ao Ts‘ao, remembering his boldness at the battle of the bridge over the Wei, was desirous of winning his help for himself, so he told his captains to try to weary him by prolonging the fights, and so make him captive.
张郃先出，战了数合便退。夏侯渊也战数合退了。徐晃又战三五合也退了。临后许褚战五十余合亦退。庞德力战四将，并无惧怯。各将皆于操前夸庞德好武艺。曹操心中大喜，与众将商议：「如何得此人降？」贾诩曰：「某知张鲁手下，有一谋士杨松。其人极贪贿赂。
Wherefore first rode out Chang Ho to answer the challenge. He fought a few bouts and returned. Then Hsiahou Yüan did the same thing. So did Hsü Huang. Lastly went Hsü Ch‘u, who kept up the fight to half a hundred bouts before he retired. Still P‘ang Tê showed no signs of fatigue nor of fear, and all those who had fought with him praised his prowess and skill.
今可暗以金帛送之，使谮庞德于张鲁，便可图矣。」操曰：「何由得入南郑？」诩曰：「来日交锋诈败佯输弃寨而走，使庞德据我寨，我却于夤夜引兵劫寨；庞德必退入城，却选一能言军士，扮作彼军，杂在阵中，便得入城。」
“If only I could win him over to my side!” said Ts‘ao Ts‘ao longingly. Said Chia Hsü, “I know one of his subordinates, Yang Sung. He is avaricious and open to a bribe. You might send him secret presents and get him to slander P‘ang Tê to his master so as to weaken his position.” “But how can one get at this man? He is in Nanch'êng.” “In the next battle pretend defeat, flee and let P‘ang take possession of this camp. Return in the night in force and drive him out, and he must retreat into the city. Let one of your own people with a persuasive tongue mingle with his men, disguised as one of his soldiers, and so gain entrance into the city.”
操听其计，选一精细军士，重加赏赐，付与金掩心甲一付，令披在贴肉，外穿汉中军士号衣，先于半路上等侯。次日，先拨夏侯渊、张郃两枝军，远去埋伏；却教徐晃挑战，不数合败走。庞德招军掩杀，曹兵侭退。庞德却夺了曹操寨栅。
Asubtle agent was found, and goodly gifts were his in advance, and he was entrusted with a golden breastplate as a bribe. He put it on and over it put on the dress of an ordinary soldier of Hanchung. And he made his way quietly to a point on the road along which the soldiers of Hanchung would retreat into the city. There he waited.
见寨中粮草极多，大喜，即时申报张鲁；一麺在寨中设宴庆贺。
Next, two parties were sent to lie in ambush and Hsü Huang was sent to challenge, but with orders to be defeated. The scheme went well, and as P‘ang Tê came on to smite, Ts‘ao Ts‘ao’s men retired before him till he found himself at their very camp. And therein he entered and was exceedingly pleased to find fodder and forage in great quantities.
当夜二更之后，忽然三路火起：正中是徐晃、许褚；左张郃；右夏侯渊。三路军马，齐来劫寨。庞德不及提备，只得上马冲杀出来，望城而走。背后三路兵追来。庞德即唤开城门，领兵一拥而入。
Having sent off a messenger to his chief, he spread a feast in celebration of the victory; and when night came on they slept. But about the second watch there was an alarm from three directions, and the camp was threatened by three forces. It was the night-attack arranged by Ts‘ao Ts‘ao, and P‘ang Tê could not make any defence. He got to horse, cut his way through and made for the city. With the attackers in close pursuit he reached the gate, got it opened and rushed in.
此时细作已杂到城中，迳投杨松府下谒见，具说：「魏公曹丞相久闻盛德，特使某送金甲为信。更有密书呈上。」松大喜，看了密书中言语，谓细作曰：「上覆魏公，但请放心。某自有良策奉报。」打发来人先回，便连夜入见张鲁，说庞德受了曹操贿赂，卖此一阵。
And the traitor got in in the confusion. He made his way quickly to Yang Sung’s residence and saw him. He told him that the great minister, Duke Wei, knew him by reputation and held him in great esteem and as a token thereof had sent him his golden breastplate and a confidential letter as well. Yang took it all in, read the letter and said, “I will reply by and by, and the duke need feel no anxiety for I shall find a means of proving my gratitude. You may return.”
张鲁大怒，唤庞德责骂，欲斩之。阎圃苦谏。张鲁曰：「你来日出战，不胜必斩！」庞德抱恨而退。
Soon after, he went to see Chang Lu and told him that P‘ang Tê had been defeated because he had been bribed. Forthwith Chang Lu summoned his general, abused him and threatened to put him to death. Yen Pu, however, protested and proposed to test P‘ang in another encounter. If he lost that, he might be put to death.
次日，曹兵攻城，庞德引兵冲出。操令许褚交战。褚诈败，庞德赶来。操自乘马于山坡上唤曰：「庞令名何不早降﹖」庞德寻思：「拏住曹操，抵一千员上将！」遂飞马上坡。一声喊起，天崩地塌，连人和马，跌入陷坑去；四壁钩索一齐上前，活捉了庞德，押上坡来。
P‘ang Tê retired full of resentment. The next day Ts‘ao Ts‘ao attacked, and P‘ang went out to repel him. Ts‘ao sent out his favourite Hsü Ch‘u, but bade him pretend defeat. When P‘ang pursued, Ts‘ao rode toward the hills, where he halted and presently got speech with P‘ang. He proposed surrender. But P‘ang thought within himself that to capture Ts‘ao would be a fine exploit, so he boldly faced his escort and rode up the hill. But there arose a great shouting as if heaven and earth were clashing together and he and his followers went headlong into ditches and pits that had been dug. Out flew men with ropes and hooks, and P‘ang was a prisoner.
曹操下马，叱退军士，亲释其䌸，问庞德肯降否。庞德寻思张鲁不仁，情愿拜降。曹操亲扶上马，共回大寨，故意教城上望见。人报张鲁，德与操并马而行。鲁益信杨松之言为实。
When he was taken to Ts‘ao he was received with the greatest kindness. Ts‘ao himself dismounted, loosed the captive’s bonds and asked him if he would surrender. P‘ang thought of the ill-treatment he had just received at the hands of his master and of his injustice, and gave in. At once he was helped to mount a horse by Ts‘ao himself and led to the great camp. Men placed for the purpose on the city wall saw what happened and told Chang Lu that his leader had ridden off on friendly terms with Ts‘ao Ts‘ao, whereby Chang Lu was persuaded that Yang Sung had spoken truly.
次日，曹操三麺竖立云梯，飞砲攻打。张鲁见其势已极，与弟张卫商议。卫曰：「放火侭烧仓廪府库，出奔南山去守巴中可也。」杨松曰：「不如开门投降。」张鲁犹豫未定。卫曰：「只是烧了便行。」张鲁曰：「我向本欲归命国家，而意未得达；
Soon after, scaling ladders were set against the city walls and catapults threw in great stones. The danger being imminent, Chang Wei counselled the destruction of all supplies and flight to Nanshan, where they might be able to defend Pachung. On the other hand, Yang Sung said the best course was to throw open the gates and surrender. Chang Lu could not decide which to do. His brother, Wei, maintained that burning everything and flight was the only course.
今不得已而出奔，仓廪府库，国家之有，不可废也。」遂侭封锁。
Chang Lu said, “I have been always loyal at heart and desired to return to allegiance when circumstances would permit. I have been unable to attain my desire, but now fight seems the only course open to me. However, the granaries and treasures, the public offices and the government property of all kinds must be kept safe.”
是夜二更，张鲁引全家老小，开南门杀出。曹操教休追赶，提兵入南郑；见鲁封闭库藏，心甚怜之，遂差人往巴中，劝使投降。张鲁欲降，张卫不肯。杨松以密书报操，便教进兵，松为内应。操得书，亲自引兵往巴中。张鲁使弟卫领兵出敌，与许褚交锋；被褚斩于马下。
To harm the wise and compass the death of one’s lord may appear signal service, But the gains thereof are vanity; No glory clings to the house of him who dies a shameful death; Wherefore Yang Sung is an object of contempt forever. When the eastern Ch'üan was quite subdued the Recorder Ssŭma I said, “The men of Shu are against Liu Pei because of his treatment of the late ruler, Liu Chang, and if on the strength of your present success you press forward, Liu Pei will become as a shattered tile. The wise man takes the occasion when it serves and this should not be missed.” Ts‘ao Ts‘ao sighed. “There is no end; now that I have Shênsi I am forced into taking Shu.”
败军回报张鲁，鲁欲坚守。杨松曰：「今若不出，坐以待毙矣。某守城，主公当亲与决一死战。」
So the public buildings were all carefully barred and sealed. The same night, in the late evening, Chang and his family went out through the south gate and found their way through. Ts‘ao Ts‘ao let them go unpursued. When Ts‘ao entered the city and saw the proofs of Chang Lu’s care of the government property he compassionated the man’s misfortunes. He then sent a messenger into Pachung to induce him to surrender. Chang Lu was disposed to do so, but his brother would not hear of it. Nor would Yang Sung, who wrote a secret letter to Ts‘ao Ts‘ao urging him to attack and promising treacherous aid.
鲁从之。阎圃谏鲁休出。鲁不听，遂引军出迎。未及交锋，后军已走。张鲁急退，背后曹兵赶来。鲁到城下，杨松闭门不纳。张鲁无路可走，操从后追至，大叫：「何不早降！」鲁乃下马投拜。操大喜；念其封仓库之心，优礼相待，封鲁为镇南将军。阎圃等皆封列侯。
Ts‘ao replied, “My men have marched far and suffered much; beside we must show pity.” Wherefore he rested his army for a time. Meanwhile the populace of West Shu, having heard of Ts‘ao’s success, concluded that they would suffer next, and fear spread among them. Whereupon Yüan-tê called in the Commander-in-chief and asked his advice. He replied that he could make Ts‘ao Ts‘ao retreat of his own accord. “A part of Ts‘ao Ts‘ao’s army is camped at Hofei because of the fear of Sun Ch'üan. If now we restore those three districts they desire so greatly, and send a specious person to talk, we can make Sun Ch'üan attack Hofei, which will lead to Ts‘ao going southward.”
于是汉中皆平。曹操传令各郡分设太守，置都尉，大赏士卒。惟有杨松卖主求荣，即命斩之于市曹示众。后人有诗叹曰：
Ts‘ao presently attacked, and Chang Wei came out to meet him. But his opponent was the mighty Hsü Ch‘u, who made short work of him. The beaten soldiers went back into the city, which Chang Lu then decided to defend. As this would not give Yang Sung the chance to carry out his treacherous scheme, he persuaded his master to go out and fight, leaving him to defend the city. Chang Lu took this advice, although it was opposed by Yen Pu, and went out. But before his van got near the enemy, his rear ranks began to desert, and Chang retreated. Ts‘ao pursued him to the city walls, where Chang found the gates shut against him. There being now no way open, Chang dismounted, prostrated himself and gave in. Because of this and his care of the public property, Ts‘ao treated him with great kindness and consoled him with the title of General, “Guardian of the South.” Yen Pu and many others also were enrolled among the nobles. To each district was appointed a military officer styled Tu-yü , in addition to the Prefect. All the soldiers were feasted and rewarded.
妨贤卖主逞奇功，积得金银总是空。
Harming the worthy, betraying his lord, he sought to win strange fame; the gold he hoarded turned to emptiness all the same.
家未荣华身受戮，令人千载笑杨松。
Before his house knew glory, his body was put to the sword; a thousand years will laugh at Yang Song.
曹操已得东川。主簿司马懿进曰：「刘备以诈力取刘璋，蜀人尚未归心。今主公已得汉中，益州震动。可速进兵攻之，势必瓦解。知者贵于乘时，时不可失也。」曹操叹曰：「人苦不知足，既得陇，复望蜀耶？」刘晔曰：「司马仲达之言是也。
Then the traitor Yang Sung, who had sold his master, came and sued for honours. He was condemned to public execution and exposure. To harm the wise and compass the death of one’s lord may appear signal service, But the gains thereof are vanity; No glory clings to the house of him who dies a shameful death; Wherefore Yang Sung is an object of contempt forever. When the eastern Ch'üan was quite subdued the Recorder Ssŭma I said, “The men of Shu are against Liu Pei because of his treatment of the late ruler, Liu Chang, and if on the strength of your present success you press forward, Liu Pei will become as a shattered tile. The wise man takes the occasion when it serves and this should not be missed.”
若少迟缓，诸葛亮明于治国而为相，关、张等勇冠三军而为将，蜀民既定，据守关隘，不可犯矣。」操曰：「士卒远涉劳苦，且宜存恤。」遂按兵不动。
Ts‘ao Ts‘ao sighed. “There is no end; now that I have Shênsi I am forced into taking Shu.” Liu Hua supported Ssŭma I, saying he spoke well. “If you delay, Chuko Liang will have become minister, while Kuan Yü, Chang Fei and the other bold warriors will be at the head of the army. If the man of Shu once settle down, and the points of vantage are held, you will not be able to overcome them.'
却说西川百姓，听知曹操已取东川，料必来取西川，一日之间，数遍惊恐。玄德请军师商议。孔明曰：「亮有一计，曹操自退。」玄德问何计。孔明曰：「曹操分军屯合淝，惧孙权也。
Ts‘ao replied, “My men have marched far and suffered much; beside we must show pity.”
今我若分江夏、长沙、桂阳三郡还吴，遣舌辩之士，陈说利害，令吴起兵袭合淝，牵动其势，操必勒兵南向矣。」玄德问：「谁可为使？」伊籍曰：「某愿往。」玄德大喜，遂作书具礼，令伊籍先到荆州，知会云长，然后入吴。到秣棱，来见孙权，先通了姓名。权召籍入。
Wherefore he rested his army for a time. Meanwhile the populace of West Shu, having heard of Ts‘ao’s success, concluded that they would suffer next, and fear spread among them. Whereupon Yüan-tê called in the Commander-in-chief and asked his advice. He replied that he could make Ts‘ao Ts‘ao retreat of his own accord. “A part of Ts‘ao Ts‘ao’s army is camped at Hofei because of the fear of Sun Ch'üan. If now we restore those three districts they desire so greatly, and send a specious person to talk, we can make Sun Ch'üan attack Hofei, which will lead to Ts‘ao going southward.” “Who is a fit person for the messenger?” said Yüan-tê. And I Chi replied, “I will go.”
籍见权礼毕，权问曰：「汝到此何为﹖」籍曰：「昨承诸葛子瑜取长沙等三郡，为军师不在，有失交割，今传书送还。所有荆州南郡、零陵，本欲送还；被曹操袭取东川，使关将军无容身之地。今合淝空虚，望君侯起兵攻之，使曹操撤兵回南。
Yüan-tê, well satisfied, wrote letters and prepared gifts, with which I Chi went, calling in at Chingchou on the way to tell Kuan Yü. Then he went on to Moling and saw Sun Ch‘üan. After the greetings, Sun Ch'üan asked on what business he had come. I Chi replied, “On a former occasion Chuko Chin would have had the three districts but for the absence of the Commander-in-chief, which prevented the actual transfer. Now I am the bearer of letters giving them back to you. Chingchou, Nanchün and Moling were meant to be restored, and now that Ts‘ao Ts‘ao has got possession of Eastern Ch‘uan they are no place for General Kuan. Hofei is empty and we hope you will attack it so as to make Ts‘ao Ts‘ao withdraw to the south and let my master take East Ch‘uan, when he will restore the whole of the Chingchou district.”
吾主若取了东川，即还荆州全土。」权曰：「汝且归馆舍，容吾商议。」
“Go back to the guest-house and let me take counsel in this matter,” said Sun Ch'üan.
伊籍退出，权问计于众谋士。张昭曰：「此是刘备恐曹操取西川，故为此谋。虽然如此，今因操在汉中，乘势取合淝，亦是上计。」权从之，发付伊籍回蜀去讫，便议起兵攻操：令鲁肃收取长沙、江夏、桂杨三郡，屯兵于陆口；取吕蒙、甘宁回；又去余杭取凌统回。
As soon as I Chi had gone, the marquis turned to his officers and asked what should be done. Chang Chao said, “All this is because Liu Pei fears that Ts‘ao Ts‘ao will attack him. However, since Ts‘ao is absent in Hanchung it would be well to seize the opportunity and attack Hofei.” Sun Ch'üan accepted the advice. After he had sent the messenger away he began to prepare for the expedition. He left Lu Su in command over the three districts of Changsha, Chianghsia and Kueiyang. Then he encamped at Luk‘ou, and withdrew Lü Mêng and Kan Ning and sent to Hangchou (Yühang) for Ling T‘ung.
不一日，吕蒙、甘宁先到。蒙献策曰：「现今曹操令庐江太守朱光屯兵于皖城，大开稻田，纳谷于合淝，以充军实。今可先取皖城，然后攻合淝。」权曰：「此计甚合吾意。」遂教吕蒙、甘宁为先锋；蒋钦、潘璋为合后；权自引周泰、陈武、董袭、徐盛为中军。
Very soon, Lü Mêng and Kan Ning returned, and the former suggested a plan, saying, “Ts‘ao Ts‘ao has sent Chu Kuang, Prefect of Luchiang, to camp at Huanch'êng and plant grain for the supply of Hofei. Let us first take Huanch'êng and then attack Hofei.”
时程普、黄盖、韩当在各处镇守，都未随征。
“This scheme is just after my own heart,” said Sun Ch‘üan. So he made dispositions accordingly, he himself with several generals, commanding the centre. But the famous warriors Ch'êng P‘u, Huang Kai and Han Tang were not called to take part in this expedition as they were guarding certain especial places.
却说军马渡江，取和州，迳到皖城。皖城太守朱光，使人往合淝求救；一麺固守城池，坚壁不出。权自到城下看时，城上箭如雨发，射中孙权麾盖。权回寨，问众将曰：「如何取得皖城？」董袭曰：「可差军士筑起土山攻之。
The army crossed the river and captured Hochou on the way. The Prefect of Huanchou sent an urgent message to Hofei for help and set himself to strengthen his fortifications for a siege. Sun Ch'üan went very near the city to observe its defence, and a flight of arrows greeted him, some striking his great official parasol. He went back to camp and asked his officers to offer plans of attack.
」徐盛曰：「可竖云梯，造虹桥，下观城中而攻之。」吕蒙曰：「此法皆费日月而成，合淝救军一至，不可图矣。今我军初到，士气方锐，正可乘此锐气，奋力攻击。来日平明进兵，午未时便当破城。」
Then Tung Hsi said, “Pile up great hills of earth and attack from the summits.” Said Hsü Shêng, “Set up long ladders and construct platforms whence you can look over the city walls and thus attack.” But Lü Mêng said, “All such plans need a long time to prepare, and in the meantime the soldiers will arrive from Hofei. Do not try such long-drawn-out schemes, but take advantage of the fine, fresh spirit of our newly arrived men and attack impetuously. Their élan will carry the wall. If you attack to-morrow at dawn the city will fall before noon.”
权从之。次日五更饭毕，三军大进。城上矢石齐下。甘宁手执铁练，冒矢石而上。朱光令弓拏手齐射，甘宁拨开箭林，一练打倒朱光。吕蒙亲自擂鼓。士卒皆一拥而上，乱刀砍死朱光。余众多降，得了皖城，方才辰时。张辽引军至半路，哨马回报皖城已失。
So the early meal was taken at the fifth watch and the army went to the attack. The defenders sent down showers of arrows and stones. Kan Ning took an iron chain in his hand and climbed up the wall. They shot at him with bows and crossbows, but he turned aside the arrows and bolts and he threw the chain round the Prefect Chu Kuang to pull him down. Lü Mêng beat the drum for the attack. The soldiers made a rush forward to climb the wall, and they slew Chu Kuang. His officers and soldiers gave in, and so the city fell to Sun Ch'üan. It was still a long time to noon.
辽即回兵归合淝。
In the meantime Chang Liao was marching to the aid of the city. Half-way he heard that the city had fallen, and so he returned to Hofei.
孙权入皖城，凌统亦引军到。权慰劳毕，大犒三军，重赏吕蒙、甘宁诸将，设宴庆功。吕蒙逊甘宁上坐，盛称其功劳。酒至半酣，凌统想起甘宁杀父之雠，又见吕蒙夸美之，心中大怒，瞪目直视良久，忽拔左右所佩之剑，立于筵上曰：「筵前无乐，看吾舞剑。
Soon after the conqueror’s entry into Huanch'êng, Ling T‘ung came there with his army. The next few days were devoted to feasting the army. Especial rewards were given to the two captains who had done such good work at the capture, and at the banquet to the officers Kan Ning was seated in the seat of honour, which his colleague, Lü Mêng, readily yielded to him for his late prowess.
」甘宁知其意，推开席桌起身，两手取两枝戟挟定，纵步出曰：「看我筵前使戟。」吕蒙见二人各无好意；便一手挽牌，一手提刀，立于其中曰：「二公虽能，皆不如我巧也。」说罢，舞起刀牌，将二人分于两下。
But as the cup of felicitation was passing round, Ling Tung’s thoughts turned to the enmity he bore Kan Ning for having slain his father, and the praises which Lü Mêng now heaped upon him filled Ling’s heart with bitterness. For some time he glared savagely at Kan Ning, and then he determined on revenge. Drawing his sword, he suddenly rose to his feet and cried, “There is nothing to amuse the assembly. I will give them a display of swordsmanship.” Kan Ning quickly saw his real intention. He pushed back his table and laid hold of a ch‘i (halberd) in each hand, crying, “And you may also watch an adept in the use of this weapon.” Lü Mêng saw the evil meaning of both, and assuming his sword and shield he hastily stepped between the two warriors, saying, “Neither of you gentlemen is so dexterous as I.”
早有人报知孙权。权慌跨马，直至筵前。众将见权至，方各放下军器。权曰：「吾常言二人休念旧雠，今日又何如此﹖」凌统哭拜于地。孙权再三劝止。至次日，起兵进取合淝，三军侭发。
So he forced the two combatants asunder, while some one ran to tell Sun Ch'üan. He hastily jumped into the saddle and rode to the banquet hall. At sight of their lord they all three lowered their weapons. “I have bidden you two to forget this old enmity,” said Sun Ch'üan. “Why do you revive it to-day?” Ling T‘ung prostrated himself in tears. Sun Ch'üan exhorted him to forget his quarrel, and once again there was peace. The next day the army set out for Hofei.
张辽为失了皖城，回到合淝，心中愁闷。忽曹操差薛悌送木匣一个，上有操封，傍书云：「贼来乃发。」是日报说「孙权自引十万大军，来攻合淝。」张辽便开匣观之。内书云：「若孙权至，张、李二将军出战，乐将军守城。」张辽将教帖与李典、乐进观之。
Because of the loss of Huanch'êng, Chang Liao grieved greatly. Ts‘ao Ts‘ao had sent a small casket sealed with his own seal and bearing outside the words, “If rebels come, open this.” So when he received the news of the coming of a powerful army Chang Liao opened the casket and read the letter therein, which said, “If Sun Ch‘üan comes to attack Hofei the two captains Chang and Li are to go out to oppose him and Yüeh is to be left to guard the walls.” Chang Liao sent the letter to the two men named therein. “What do you think to do?” said Yüeh Chin.
乐进曰：「将军之意若何﹖」张辽曰：「主公远征在外，吴兵以为破我必矣。今可发兵出迎，奋力与战，折其锋锐，以安众心，然后可守也。」
Chang Liao replied, “Our lord is away and Wu is coming to attack for certain. We must go out to repel them and exert ourselves to the utmost to inflict defeat upon their advanced guard. Thus we shall appease the fears of the populace and then we can hold as best we may.' ”
李典素与张辽不睦，闻辽此言，默然不答。乐进见李典不语，便道：「贼众我寡，难以迎敌，不如坚守。」张辽曰：「公等皆是私意，不顾公事。吾今自出迎敌，决一死战。」便教左右备马。李典慨然而起曰：「将军如此，典岂敢以私憾而忘公事乎？愿听指挥。
But Li Tien was silent, for he was ever unfriendly to Chang Liao. Then seeing his colleague inclined to hold off, Yüeh Chin said, “I am for remaining on the defensive since the enemy is so much more numerous than we.” “Gentlemen, it seems you are selfish and not devoted to the common weal,” said Chang Liao. “You may have your private reasons for what you do, but I intend to go out and try to repel the enemy. I will fight them to the death.”
」张辽大喜曰：「既曼成肯相助，来日引一军于逍遥津北埋伏；待吴兵杀过来，可先断小师桥，吾与乐文谦击之。」李典领命，自去点军埋伏。
Thereupon he bade his servants saddle his steed. At this, Li Tien’s better feelings were aroused, and he rose saying, “How can I be careless of the common weal and indulge my private feelings? I am ready to follow you and do as you command.” Chang Liao was elated at this moral victory, and said, “Since I can depend upon your help, my friend, then I would ask you to lie in ambush on the north of the Ch‘aoyao Ford in order to destroy the bridge there as soon as the army of Wu has crossed. I, with my friend Yüeh Chin, will smite the enemy. Li Tien went away to muster his men and prepare the ambush. ”
却说孙权令吕蒙、甘宁为前队，自与凌统居中。其余诸将陆续进发，望合淝杀来。吕蒙、甘宁前队兵进，正与乐进相迎。甘宁出马与乐进交锋，战不数合，乐进诈败而走。甘宁招呼吕蒙一齐引军赶去。
As has been recorded, the leaders of the advance guard of the Wu army were the veterans Lü Mêng and Kan Ning. Sun Ch'üan and Ling T‘ung were in the centre; the other captains followed them. The leaders of the van met Yüeh Chin first, and Kan Ning rode out and challenged him. After a few bouts Yüeh pretended to be defeated and fled. Kan Ning called to his colleague to join in the pursuit.
孙权在第二队，听得前军得胜，催兵行兵至逍遥津北，忽闻连珠砲响，左边张辽一军杀来，右边李典一军杀来。孙权大惊，急令人唤吕蒙、甘宁回救时，张辽兵已到。凌统手下，止有三百余骑，当不得曹军势如山倒。凌统大呼曰：「主公何不速渡小师桥！」
When Sun Ch'üan heard that this advance guard had been successful he hastened his men to the Ford. But then there came a series of explosions, and up came Chang Liao and Li Tien, one on each flank. Sun Ch'üan was unprepared for this and sent messengers to call off the pursuit and ask for help. Before it could arrive, Chang Liao had come up.
言未毕，张辽引二千余骑，当先杀至。凌统翻身死战。孙权纵马上桥，桥南已拆丈余，并无一片板。孙权惊手足无措。牙将谷利大呼曰：「主公可将马退后，再放马向前，跳过桥去。」孙权收回马来有三丈余远，然后纵辔加鞭，那马一跳飞过桥南。后人有诗曰：
Manifestly, Ling T‘ung, who had with him only a small troop of horse, could not long withstand the army of Ts‘ao Ts‘ao, but he faced them and fought bravely while his lord galloped for the bridge. The southern end had been already broken down and there was a wide breach between the end of the bridge and the shore. Not a single plank was there by which to cross. What could be done? Sun Ch'üan was in a quandary, and helpless. “Go back and jump for it!” yelled one of the petty officers, Ku Li by name. He did so. Backing his horse some thirty feet or so, he then gave him his head and lashed him with his whip. The good beast leaped, cleared the chasm and his master was safe on the southern shore. Once Tilu leapt across T‘an Torrent wide, And when defeat did Sun of Wu betide, And death came threateningly at Ch‘aoyao Ford, His steed too leapt, and saved him from the sword.
的卢当日跳檀溪；又见吴侯败合淝。
The Dilu once leapt over Tanxi; now the Lord of Wu is beaten at Hefei.
退后著鞭驰骏骑，逍遥津上玉龙飞。
Spurring his swift steed as he fell back, at Xiaoyao Ford the Jade Dragon flew.
孙权跳过桥南，徐盛、董袭驾舟相迎。凌统、谷利扺住张辽。甘宁、吕蒙引军回救，却被乐进从后追来，李典又截住厮杀，吴兵折了大半。凌统所领三百余人，侭被杀死。统身中数枪，杀到桥边，桥已拆断，遶河而逃。孙权在舟中望见，急令董袭棹舟接之，乃得渡回。
The terrible slaughter at this battle put such fear into the minds of the men from Chiangnan that the name of Chang Liao kept the very children quiet at night. When Sun Ch'üan reached his camp he richly rewarded Ling T‘ung and the petty officer Ku Li. Then he led his army back to Juhsü and began to put his ships in order so that the army and navy might act in unison. He also sent home for reinforcements.
吕蒙、甘宁皆死命逃过河南。这一阵杀得江南人人害怕；闻张辽大名，小儿也不敢夜啼。众将保护孙权回营。权乃重赏凌统、谷利，收军回濡须，整顿船只，商议水陆并进；一麺差人回江南，再起人马来助战。
Having reached the farther shore, Sun Ch'üan embarked on a boat and was rowed to a place of safety, while Chang Liao’s army was held at bay. Kan Ning and Lü Mêng, coming to his aid, were pursued by Yüeh Chin, and Li Tien also stayed their progress. But the men of Wu fought bravely, and Ling T‘ung’s troop of horse perished to a man. While Ling himself was wounded, but found his way to the bridge. Finding it destroyed, he fled along the stream. Presently he was seen by Sun Ch'üan from the boat and taken on board. Kan Ning and Lü Mêng fled into Honan. The terrible slaughter at this battle put such fear into the minds of the men from Chiangnan that the name of Chang Liao kept the very children quiet at night. When Sun Ch'üan reached his camp he richly rewarded Ling T‘ung and the petty officer Ku Li. Then he led his army back to Juhsü and began to put his ships in order so that the army and navy might act in unison. He also sent home for reinforcements.
却说张辽闻孙权在濡须，将欲兴兵进攻，恐合淝兵少，难以扺敌，急令薛悌星夜往汉中，报知曹操，求请救兵。操同众官议曰：「此时可收西川否？」刘曰：「今蜀中稍定，已有准备，不可击也。不如撤兵去救合淝之急，就下江南。」
Chang Liao reflected that he had insufficient force to meet another attack if it should be supported by the navy of Wu, so he sent an urgent message to his master in Hanchung. When the messenger arrived, Ts‘ao Ts‘ao saw that his western expedition would have to yield to the urgency of home defence. However, he called in his counsellors and put a direct question to them. “Can we take Western Shu now, or not?” “The country is too well prepared; we cannot,” replied Liu Hua. “It is better to go to the succour of Hofei and then go down the river.”
操乃留夏侯渊守汉中定军山隘口，留张郃守蒙头岩等隘口。其余军兵拔寨都起，杀奔濡须坞来。正是：
Wherefore, leaving Hsiahou Yüan to guard what he had taken of Hanchung, and other reliable captains at other points of vantage, Ts‘ao broke up his camp and went toward Juhsü. The armoured horsemen would have conquered Shên, The ensigns toward the south were turned again. The subsequent course of the war will be unfolded in later chapters.
铁骑甫能平陇右，旌旄又复指江南。
The iron horsemen had barely pacified Longyou when the banners were pointed toward Jiangnan once more.
未知胜负如何，且看下文分解。
But the sequel must be told in the next chapter.