却说章武二年春正月，武威后将军黄忠随先主伐吴；忽闻先主言老将无用，即提刀上马，引亲随五六人，迳到彝陵营中。吴班与张南、冯习接入，问曰：「老将军此来，有何事故？」忠曰：「吾自长沙跟天子到今，多负勤劳。
As has been said, the veteran warrior Huang Chung was among the officers who followed the First Ruler to war against Wu. When he heard his master talk of old and incapable leaders he girded on his sword and with a few faithful followers made his way to the camps at Iling. He was welcomed by the captains there, but they knew not why he had come.
今虽七旬有余，食肉十斤，臂开二石之弓，能乘千里之马，未足为老。昨日主上言吾等老迈无用，故来此与东吴交锋，看吾斩将，老也不老！」
“For what reason do you come, O Veteran?” asked they. “I have followed our lord the Emperor ever since he left Changsha, and I have done diligent service. I am now over seventy, but my appetite is good, I can stretch the strongest bow, and I can ride any distance without fatigue. I am not weak or worn out. But our master has been talking of old and stupid leaders, and I am come to take part in the fight with Wu. If I slay one of their leaders he will see I may be old but not worn out.”
正言问，忽报吴兵前部已到，哨马临营。忠奋然而起，出帐上马。冯习等劝曰：「老将军且休轻进。」忠不听，纵马而去。吴班令冯习引兵助战。忠在吴军阵前，勒马横刀，单搦先锋潘璋交战。璋引部将史迹出马。迹欺忠年老，挺枪出战；斗不三合，被忠一刀斩于马下。
Just about that time the leading division of the Wu army drew near, and the scouts were close to the camp. Huang Chung hastily rose, went out of the tent and mounted to go into the battle. “Aged General, be careful,” said the captains. But Huang Chung paid no attention and set off at full speed. However, Feng Hsi was sent to help him. As soon as he saw the array of the enemy, he pulled up and challenged the leader of the vanguard. The van-leader, P‘an Chang, sent out one of his subordinates, Shih Chi, to take the challenge. Shih Chi despised his aged antagonist and rode lightly forth with his spear set, but in the third bout Huang Chung cut him down. This angered P‘an, who flourished Black Dragon, the sword of the old warrior Kuan which had passed into his possession, and took up the battle. These two fought several bouts, and neither was victor, for Huang Chung was brimful of energy. His antagonist, seeing that he could not overcome the old man, galloped off. Huang Chung pursued and smote him and scored a full victory.
潘璋大怒，挥关公使的青龙刀，来战黄忠。交马数合，不分胜负。忠奋力𫫇战，璋料敌不过，拨马便走。忠乘劫追杀，全胜而回。路逢关兴、张苞。兴曰：「我等奉圣旨来助老将军；既已立了功，速请回营。」忠不听。
On his way back he fell in with the two youthful captains, Kuan and Chang, who told him they had come by sacred command to aid him if necessary. “And now that you have scored so complete a victory we pray you to return to the main camp,” said they. But the veteran would not. Next day P‘ang Chang came to challenge again, and Huang Chung at once accepted. Nor would he allow the young men to come with him, or accept assistance from any other.
次日，潘璋又来搦战。黄忠奋然上马。兴、苞二人要助战，忠不从；吴班要助战，忠亦不从；只自引五千军出迎。战不敷合，璋拖刀便走。忠纵马追之，厉声大叫曰：「贼将休走！吾今为关公报雠！」追至三十余里，四麺喊声大震，伏兵齐出。
He led out five companies. Before many bouts had been exchanged P‘an Chang made a feint and got away. Huang Chung pursued, shouting to him not to flee. “Flee not, for now will I avenge the death of Kuan Yü,” cried he.
右边周泰，左边韩当，前有潘璋，后有凌统，把黄忠困在垓心。忽然狂风大起，忠急退时，山坡上马忠引一军出，一箭射中黄忠肩窝，险些儿落马。吴兵见忠中箭，一齐来攻。忽后麺喊声大起，两路军杀来，吴兵溃散，救出黄忠，乃关兴、张苞也。
Huang pursued some score li , but presently he fell into an ambush and found himself attacked on both flanks and in the rear, and the erstwhile flying enemy turned, so that Huang was surrounded and hemmed in. Suddenly a great storm came on. The wind blew violently, forcing Huang to retreat. And as he was passing some hills an enemy cohort came down the slopes, and one of the arrows wounded the veteran in the armpit. He nearly fell from his horse with the shock. The men of Wu, seeing Huang wounded, came on all together, but soon the two youthful captains, Kuan Hsing and Chang Pao, drove them off and scattered them. Thus they rescued Huang Chung.
二小将保送黄忠迳到御前营中。忠年老血衰，箭疮痛裂，病甚沉重。先主御驾自来看视，抚其背曰：「令老将军中伤，朕之过也！」忠曰：「臣乃一武夫耳，幸遇陛下。臣今年七十有五，寿亦足矣。望陛下善保龙体，以图中原！」言讫，不省人事，是夜殒于御营。
He was taken back to the main camp. But he was old and his blood was thin, and the wound gaped wide, so that he was near to die. The First Ruler came to visit him and patted his back and said, “It is my fault, O Veteran, that you have been hurt in the battle.” “I am a soldier,” said the old man. “I am glad that I could serve Your Majesty. But now I am seventy-five and I have lived long enough. Be careful of your own safety for the good of the state.”
后人有诗叹曰：
A later poet sighed and wrote:
老将说黄忠，收川立大功。
The veteran general called Huang Zhong, who in taking Shu achieved great deeds;
重披金锁甲，双挽铁胎弓。
Donning once more his golden-linked mail, drawing with both hands his iron-core bow.
胆气惊河北，威名镇蜀中。
His fierce courage startled north of the river, his dread name kept peace in Shu.
临亡头似雪，犹自显英雄。
Dying, his head was white as snow, yet still he showed the hero's mettle.
先主见黄忠气绝，哀伤不已，敕具棺椁，葬于成都。先主叹曰：「五虎大将，已亡三人。朕尚不能复雠，深可痛哉！」乃引御林军直至猇亭，大会诸将，分军八路，水陆俱进。水路令黄权领兵，先主自率大军于旱路进发：时章武二年二月中旬也。
These were his last words. He became unconscious and died that night. A poem was written of him:— First among veterans stands Huang Chung, Who won great merit in the conquest of Shu. Old, he still donned his coat of mail, And laid his hand to the curving bow. His valour was the talk of all the north, Fear of his might maintained the new-won west. Tardy he bowed his snow-white head to death, Fighting to the end; in very truth a hero. The First Ruler was very sad when he heard of Huang Chung’s death and made him a grave in Ch'êngtu. “My brave captain is gone,” sighed he, “and the third of my brave leaders, and I have been unable to avenge their death; it is very grievous.” Next Liu Pei led the Imperial Guard to Hsiaot‘ing, where he summoned a great assembly. He divided his forces into eight parts ready for an attack by land and water. The marines were placed under Huang Ch'üan, and he himself led the land forces. It was then the second month.
韩当、周泰听知先主御驾来征，引兵出迎。两阵对圆，韩当、周泰出马，只见蜀营门旗处，先主自出，黄罗销金伞盖，左右白旄黄钺，金银旌节，前后围绕。当大叫曰：「陛下今为蜀主，何自轻出？倘有疎虞，悔之何及！
When Han Tang and Chou T‘ai heard that the army of Shu was approaching, they marched toward it. When near, the two armies were arrayed. The two leaders of Wu rode out and saw the First Ruler standing beneath the great standard with his staff about him. A silken umbrella splashed with gold was over his head; right and left were white banners, golden axes and other insignia of an emperor. Then Han Tang spoke:
」先主遥指骂曰：「汝等吴狗，伤朕手足，誓不与立于天地之间！」当回顾众将曰：「谁敢冲突蜀兵？」部将夏恂，挺枪出马。先主背后张苞挺丈八矛，纵马而出，大喝一声，直取夏恂。恂见苞声若巨雷，心中惊惧；恰待要走，周泰弟周平见恂抵敌不住，挥刀纵马而来。
“Your Majesty is now Ruler of Shu; why do you risk your life in the battle-field. It would be most regrettable if any untoward event happened.” The First Ruler pointed the finger of scorn at the speaker and said, “You dogs of Wu bereft me of my brother, and I have sworn that you shall not live with me under the same sky.”
关兴见了，跃马提刀来迎。张苞大喝一声，一矛刺中夏恂，倒撞下马。周平大惊，措手不及，被关兴一刀斩了。二小将便取韩当、周泰，韩、周二人，慌忙入阵。先主视之，叹曰：「虎父无犬子也！」用御鞭一指，蜀兵一齐掩杀过去，吴兵大败。
“Who dares plunge in among the enemy?” asked Han Tang, turning to those in his train. Acertain Hsia Hsün set his spear and rode to the front, and as he did so Chang Pao with a roar galloped out to meet him. But this thunderous voice affrighted Hsia, and he sought to flee. Then Chou T‘ai’s brother, Chou P‘ing, seeing that his colleague was panic-stricken, flourished his sword and rode out too. At once Kuan Hsing dashed to the front. Chang Pao roared again, and thrusting at Hsia bore him from his steed. This disconcerted Chou P‘ing and enfeebled his defence, so that Kuan speedily slew him. Then the two youths rode furiously at the two leaders. They sought refuge in the rear. “The tiger fathers have not begotten curs of sons,” said the First Ruler with a sigh of satisfaction.
那八路兵，势如泉涌，杀的那吴军尸横遍野，血流成河。
Then he waved his whip as a signal to fall on, and the Wu army suffered a great defeat. The force of the eight divisions was irresistible as a river in flood, and the slaughter was immense.
却说甘宁正在船中养病，听知蜀兵大至，火急上马，正遇一彪蛮兵，人皆披发跣足，皆使弓弩长鎗，搪牌刀斧；为首乃是番王沙摩柯，生得麺如噀血，碧眼突出，使一个铁蒺藜骨朵，腰带两张弓，威风抖擞。甘宁见其势大，不敢交锋，拨马而走；被沙摩柯一箭射中头颅。
Kan Ning was in his ship ill, but he roused himself when he heard the armies of Shu had come, and mounted to go into the battle. Soon he met a cohort of the Man soldiers. These men wore their hair loose and went barefoot. Their weapons were bows and crossbows and long spears and swords and axes. And they had shields to ward off blows. They were led by their own Prince Shamoko. His face was spotted with red as if splashed with blood, and his eyes were grey. He rushed among Kan Ning’s men wielding a spiked iron staff with bone pendants, and he had two bows slung at his belt. He was terrible to look upon. Kan Ning recognised that he had no chance of victory against such a man and did not engage him, but turned his steed to flee. But as he fled Shamoko shot an arrow that pierced Kan Ning’s skull. Wounded as he was, he rode on to Fuch‘ihk‘ou, but there he dismounted and sat under a tree, where he died. On the tree were many hundreds of crows, and they gathered round the corpse. The Prince of Wu was sore grieved at the news of his death, and had the remains buried honourably. Moreover, he raised a temple to his memory.
宁带箭而走，到得富池口，坐于大树之下而死。树上群鸦数百，围绕其尸。吴王闻之，哀痛不已，具礼厚葬，立庙祭祀。后人有诗叹曰：
Kan Ning was first of warriors in Wu, With silken sails he stemmed the Yangtse’s tide, Right loyally he served his prince, and true, He made two ill friends put their hate aside. Light horse led he by night a camp to raid, And first he warmed his men with generous wine. His resting place the solemn birds betrayed, And fragrant incense smoulders at his shrine.
吴郡甘兴霸，长江锦幔舟。
Gan Xingba of Wu Commandery, on the Yangtze in his brocade-curtained boat.
酬君重知己，报友化仇雠。
Repaying his lord for knowing him well, avenging his friend turned foes to dust.
劫寨将轻骑，驱兵饮巨瓯。
Raiding the camp with light cavalry, leading his men to drink from giant bowls.
神鸦能显圣，香火永千秋。
The divine crows can manifest their holiness; their incense and fire endure for a thousand autumns.
却说先主乘势追杀，遂得猇亭。吴兵四散逃走。先主收兵，只不见关兴。先主慌令张苞等四麺跟寻。原来关兴杀入吴阵，正遇雠人潘璋，骤马追之。璋大惊，奔入山谷内，不知所往。兴寻思只在山里，往来寻觅不见。看看天晚，迷踪失路。幸得星月有光。
This victory gave the First Ruler possession of Hsiaot‘ing. But at the muster after the battle Kuan Hsing did not appear. Search parties were sent to find him, and they went far and wide beating the country around. However, the dashing young soldier was only following in his father’s footsteps. When Kuan Hsing had got in among the men of Wu, he had caught sight of P‘an Chang, his especial enemy, and galloped in pursuit. In terror, P‘an took to the hills and disappeared in one of the valleys. In seeking him Kuan Hsing lost his way and went to and fro till it grew dark without finding a way out. It was clear moonlight. Near midnight he came to a farm, where he dismounted and knocked at the door. A venerable old man appeared and asked who he was.
追至山僻之间，时已二更。到一庄上，下马叩门。一老者出问何人。兴曰：「吾是战将，迷路到此，求一饭充饥。」老人引入，兴见堂内点著明烛，中堂绘关公神像。兴大哭而拜。老人问曰：「将军何故哭拜？」兴曰：「此吾父也。」老人闻言，即便下拜。
“I am one of the leaders of the army, and I have lost my way. I beg a meal, for I am starving,” said Kuan. The old man led him into a hall lit by many candles, and there he saw a picture of his dead father. At once he began to wail and bowed before it. “Why do you wail thus?” asked the old man. “This is my father,” said Kuan. At this, the old man prostrated himself before his guest. “Why should you treat my father with such respect?” asked Kuan.
兴曰：「何故供养吾父？」老人答曰：「此间皆是尊神地方。在生之日，家家侍奉，何况今日为神乎？老夫只望蜀兵早早报雠。今将军到，此百姓有福矣。」遂置酒待之，卸鞍喂马。
“This place is sacred to his honoured spirit. While he lived the people served him, and now that he is a spirit should they not revere him the more? I have been waiting for the armies of Shu to avenge his death, and it is indeed the great good fortune of the people that you have come.” Then he brought forth wine and food and served his guest. Moreover, he unsaddled and fed his horse.
三更以后，忽门外又一人击户。老人出而问之，乃吴将潘璋亦来投宿。恰入草堂，关兴见了，按剑大喝曰：「反贼休走！」璋回身便出。忽门外一人，麺如重枣，丹凤眼，卧蚕眉，飘三缕美髯，绿袍金铠，按剑而入。璋见是关公显圣，大叫一声，神魂惊散；
Some two hours later a knocking came at the door, and when the old man opened it, the visitor was no other than P‘an Chang, the Wu General. He also asked shelter. As he came in Kuan recognised him and drew his sword, crying, “Stay; you ruffian! Do not flee!” P‘an turned and would have gone out, but on the threshold suddenly appeared a figure of ruddy complexion with bright eyes and heavy eyebrows, and a long, flowing beard. And it wore a green robe and golden armour and was armed with a huge sword.
欲待转身，早被关兴手起剑落，斩于地上，取心沥血，就关公神像前祭祀。兴得了父亲的青龙偃月刀，却将潘璋首级，擐于马项之下，辞了老人，就骑了潘璋的马，望本营而来。老人自将潘璋之尸拖出烧化。
P‘an shrank back, for he recognised the noble Kuan in spirit form. He uttered a shriek and became as one distraught, but before he could turn, Kuan Hsing raised his sword; it fell, and P‘an lay dead. Taking the heart-blood of his dead enemy Kuan poured it in libation before the picture of his father. After that he took possession of his father’s sword, Black Dragon, curved as the young moon. Having hacked off the head of his fallen enemy he fastened it to his bridle. Then he took leave of his aged host, saddled his enemy’s horse and rode away toward his own camp. The old man dragged the corpse of the dead soldier outside and burned it.
且说关兴行无数里，忽听得人喊马嘶，一彪军到来；为首一将，乃潘璋部将马忠也。忠见兴杀了主将潘璋，将首级擐于马项之下；青龙刀又被兴得了；勃然大怒，纵马来取关兴。兴见马忠是害父雠人，气冲牛斗，举青龙刀望忠便砍。
Kuan had not gone very far when he heard the neighing of horses and soon met a troop led by Ma Chung, one of P‘an Chang’s lieutenants, who was looking for his chief. Ma fell into a great rage when he saw the head of his chief swinging at the neck of Kuan Hsing’s horse and beheld the famous sword in his hand. He galloped up furiously, and Kuan Hsing, who recognised an enemy of his late father, rushed to meet him. Just as he would strike, however, Ma Chung’s men galloped up to support their captain, and Kuan Hsing was surrounded. He was in dire danger, but just opportunely came up a troop of horse led by his cousin Chang. At this, Ma, thinking discretion the better part, drew off his men and rode away.
忠部下三百军并力上前，一声喊起，将关兴围在垓心。兴力孤势危。忽见西北上一彪军杀来，乃是张苞。马忠见救兵到来，慌忙引军自退。关兴、张苞一同赶来。赶不数里，前麺糜芳、傅士仁引兵来寻马忠。两军相合，混战一埸。
P‘an shrank back, for he recognised the noble Kuan in spirit form. He uttered a shriek and became as one distraught, but before he could turn, Kuan Hsing raised his sword; it fell, and P‘an lay dead. Taking the heart-blood of his dead enemy Kuan poured it in libation before the picture of his father. After that he took possession of his father’s sword, Black Dragon, curved as the young moon.
苞、兴二人兵少，慌忙撤退，回至猇亭，来见先主，献上首级，具言此事。先主惊异，赏犒三军。
The two cousins pursued him. Before they had gone far they met another force under Mi Fang and Fushih Jên, who had come out to seek Ma Chung. The two bodies of soldiers met and fought, but the men of Shu were too few for victory and drew off. Thence they made their way to headquarters, where they told their adventures and presented the head of their late enemy.
却说马忠回见韩当、周泰，收聚败军，各分头把守。军士中伤者不计其数。马忠带傅士仁、糜芳于江渚屯劄。当夜三更，军士皆哭声不止。糜芳暗听之，有一伙言曰：「我等皆是荆州之兵，被吕蒙诡计送了主公性命，今刘皇叔御驾亲征，东吴早晚休矣。
Kuan had not gone very far when he heard the neighing of horses and soon met a troop led by Ma Chung, one of P‘an Chang’s lieutenants, who was looking for his chief. Ma fell into a great rage when he saw the head of his chief swinging at the neck of Kuan Hsing’s horse and beheld the famous sword in his hand. He galloped up furiously, and Kuan Hsing, who recognised an enemy of his late father, rushed to meet him. Just as he would strike, however, Ma Chung’s men galloped up to support their captain, and Kuan Hsing was surrounded. He was in dire danger, but just opportunely came up a troop of horse led by his cousin Chang. At this, Ma, thinking discretion the better part, drew off his men and rode away.
所恨者，糜芳、傅士仁也。我等何不杀此二贼，去蜀营投降？功劳不小。」又一伙军言曰：「不要性急，等个空儿便就下手。」糜芳听毕，大惊，遂与傅士仁商议曰：「军心变动，我二人性命难保。今蜀主所恨者，马忠耳；
Ma Chung went back and rejoined Han Tang and Chou T‘ai. Many men were wounded. Then they marched to Chiangchu and encamped. The night they arrived many men were groaning with the pain of their wounds. Mi Fang, who was listening unknown to the men, heard one of them say, “We are Chingchou men and victims of Lü Mêng’s vile machinations. If we had only remained under Liu Pei! Now he is Emperor and has set out to destroy Wu, and he will do it one day. But we have a special grudge against Mi Fang and Fushih Jên. Why should we not kill these two and go over to Shu? They will think we have done well.” Another said, “Do not be hasty; we will do it presently when there is a chance.”
何不杀了他，将首级去献蜀主，告称：『我等不得已而降吴，今知御驾前来，特地诣营请罪。』」仁曰：「不可，去必有祸。」芳曰：「蜀主宽仁厚德；目今阿斗太子是我外甥，彼但念我国戚之情，必不肯加害。」
Mi Fang did not like this at all. He told his colleague the men were mutinous and they themselves were in danger. “Ma Chung is an object of especial hatred to the Ruler of Shu; suppose we kill him and surrender. We can say we were compelled to give in to Wu, but as soon as he came near we wanted to get back.” “It will not do,” said Fushih. “If we go they will kill us.” “No; the Ruler of Shu is liberal and kind. And the heir, Atou, is related to me. They will surely not do any harm to a connection.”
二人计较已定，先备了马。三更时分，入帐刺杀马忠，将首级割了，二人带数十骑，迳投猇亭而来。伏路军人，先引见张南、冯习，具说其事。次日，到御营中来见先主，献上马忠首级，哭告于前曰：「臣等实无反心；
Mi Fang did not like this at all. He told his colleague the men were mutinous and they themselves were in danger. “Ma Chung is an object of especial hatred to the Ruler of Shu; suppose we kill him and surrender. We can say we were compelled to give in to Wu, but as soon as he came near we wanted to get back.” “It will not do,” said Fushih. “If we go they will kill us.” “No; the Ruler of Shu is liberal and kind. And the heir, Atou, is related to me. They will surely not do any harm to a connection.”
被吕蒙诡计，称言关公已亡，赚开城门，臣等不得已而降。今闻圣驾前来，特杀此贼，以雪陛下之恨。伏乞陛下恕臣等之罪。」先主大怒曰：「朕自离成都许多时，你两个如何不来请罪？今见势危，故来巧言，欲全性命！朕若饶你，至九泉之下，有何麺目见关公乎！
In the end they decided to go. And in the third watch they made their way into their chief’s tent and stabbed him to death. Then they cut off his head, and with their grisly trophy and a few followers they set off for the camp of the Ruler of Shu. They arrived at the outposts and were taken to see Chang Nan and Fêng Hsi, to whom they told their tale. Next day they went into the camp and were admitted to the presence of the First Ruler, to whom they offered their trophy. And they threw themselves on the ground and wept, saying, “We are not traitors. We were the victims of Lü Meng’s wickedness. He said that Kuan Yü was dead and tricked us into giving up the city. We could not help surrendering. When we heard the 'sacred chariot' had come we slew this man to satisfy your vengeance, and we implore forgiveness.” But the First Ruler was angry, and said, “I left Ch'êngtu a long time ago; why did you not come to confess your fault before? Now you find yourselves in danger and so you come with this specious tale to try to save your lives. If I pardon you, how shall I look my brother in the face when we meet beneath the Nine Springs?”
」言讫，令关兴在御营中，设关公灵位。先主亲捧马忠首级，诣前祭祀。又令关兴将糜芳、傅士仁剥去衣服，跪于灵前，亲自用刀剐之，以祭关公。忽张苞上帐哭拜于前曰：「二伯父雠人皆已诛戮；臣父冤雠，何日可报？」先主曰：「贤姪勿忧。
Then he bade Kuan Hsing set up an altar to his father in the camp, and thereon he offered the head they had brought in sacrifice before the tablet of Kuan Yü. This done, he had the two deserters stripped and made them kneel before the altar, and presently with his own hand he hewed them in pieces as a sacrifice.
朕当削平江南，杀侭吴狗，务擒二贼，与汝亲自醢之，以祭汝父。」苞泣谢而退。
Presently Chang Pao came in and wailed before him, saying, “The two enemies of my uncle have been slain, but when will vengeance be taken upon those of my father?” “Do not grieve, my nephew,” said the First Ruler, “I am going to lay waste Chiangnan and slay the whole of the curs that live there. I will assuredly capture the two murderers of your father, and you shall hack them to pieces as a sacrifice." Chang Pao went away, still weeping.
此时先主威声大震，江南之人，侭皆胆裂，日夜号哭。韩当、周泰大惊，急奏吴王，具言糜芳、傅士仁杀了马忠，去归蜀帝，亦被蜀帝杀了。孙权心怯，遂聚文武商议。步骘奏曰：「蜀主所恨者：乃吕蒙、潘璋、马忠、糜芳、傅士仁也。
About this time the fear of the First Ruler was very great among the men of Chiangnan, who stood in dread of him so that they grieved night and day. Han Tang and Chou T‘ai were rather frightened too, and they sent a report to their master of the assassination of Ma Chung and what had befallen the assassins. Then Sun Ch'üan was distressed and called together his counsellers. At this meeting Pu Chi proposed submission and self-humiliation for the sake of peace.
今此数人皆亡，独有范彊、张达二人，现在东吴。何不擒此二人，并张飞首级，遣使送还，交与荆州，送归夫人，上表求和，再会前情，共图灭魏，则蜀兵自退矣。
Then Sun Ch'üan was distressed and called together his counsellers. At this meeting Pu Chi proposed submission and self-humiliation for the sake of peace. Said he, “There were five persons whom Liu Pei had a grudge against, and they are all dead. Now the objects of his hate are the murderers of Chang Fei. Why not send back Chang Fei’s head, and these two assassins, and give up Chingchou and restore the Lady Sun and ask for peace and alliance against Wei? This will make the men of Shu retire, and we shall have peace.”
」权从其言，遂具渖香木匣，盛贮飞首，绑缚范彊、张达，囚于槛车之内，令程秉为使，赍国书，望猇亭而来。
Said he, “There were five persons whom Liu Pei had a grudge against, and they are all dead. Now the objects of his hate are the murderers of Chang Fei. Why not send back Chang Fei’s head, and these two assassins, and give up Chingchou and restore the Lady Sun and ask for peace and alliance against Wei? This will make the men of Shu retire, and we shall have peace.” This proposal seemed good. So the head of Chang Fei was enclosed in a sandalwood box; Fan Chiang and Chang Ta were bound and put in a cage-cart. All these were sent, with letters, by the band of Ch'êng Ping to the camp at Hsiaot‘ing.
却说先主欲发兵前进。忽近臣奏曰：「东吴遣使送张车骑之首，并囚范彊、张达二贼至。」先主两手加额曰：「此天之所赐，亦由三弟之灵也！」即令张苞设飞灵位。先主见张飞首级在匣中麺不改色，放声大哭。张苞自仗利刀，将范彊、张达万剐凌迟，祭父之灵。
The First Ruler was about to march farther east when they told him that a messenger had come from Chiangnan and what he had brought. The Ruler struck his forehead with both hands, saying, “This is the direct gift of Heaven through my youngest brother’s spirit.” He bade Chang Pao prepare an altar whereon to sacrifice the heads of his father’s assassins. When he opened the box and saw the features of his brother he seemed at first outwardly unmoved, but soon he broke into wailing for the dead. Then the son hewed the two men in pieces and offered them upon the altar.
祭毕，先主怒气不息，定要灭吴。马良奏曰：「雠人侭戮，其恨可雪矣。吴大夫程秉到，此欲还荆州，送回夫人，永结盟好，共图灭魏，伏侯圣旨。」先主怒曰：「朕切齿雠人，乃孙权也。今若与之连和，是负二弟当日之盟矣。今先灭吴，次灭魏。
But this sacrifice did not appease Liu Pei’s anger, and he still desired to destroy Wu. Whereupon Ma Liang remonstrated. “Your enemies are now all dead: you are avenged. Wu has sent a high officer with large concessions and awaits your reply.”
」便欲斩来使，以绝吴情。多官苦告方免。程秉抱头鼠窜，回奏吴主曰：「蜀不从讲和，誓欲先灭东吴，然后伐魏。众臣苦谏不听，如之奈何？」
But Liu Pei savagely replied, “The one I would grind to pieces is Sun Ch'üan. To act as he proposes and enter into alliance would be treachery to my two brothers and a breach of our oath. Now I will exterminate Wu, and Wei shall follow.” He wished also to put the messenger to death, but relented when his officers interceded; and poor Ch'êng Ping ran off terrified, glad to escape with life. He went back and told Sun Ch'üan how implacable his enemy seemed.
权大惊，举止失措，阚泽出班奏曰：「见有擎天之柱，如何不用耶？」权急问何人。泽曰：「昔日东吴大事，全任周郎；后鲁子敬代之；子敬亡后，决于吕子明；今子明虽丧．见有陆伯言在荆州。此人名虽儒生，实有雄才大略，以臣论之；不在周郎之下；
Sun Ch'üan was frightened and bewildered. Seeing this, K‘an Tsê stepped forward and said, “Since there is a sky-supporting pillar, why not use it?” “Whom do you refer to?” asked Sun Ch'üan.
前破关公，其谋皆出于伯言。主上若能用之，破蜀必矣。如或有失，臣愿与同罪。」权曰：「非德润之言，孤误大事。」张昭曰：「陆逊乃一书生耳，非刘备敌手；恐不可用。」顾雍亦曰：「陆逊年幼望轻，恐诸公不服；若不服则生祸乱，必误大事。
“You once had perfect confidence in Chou Yü, and he was followed by Lu Su, equally able. Lü Mêng succeeded and you pinned your faith upon him. Though now he is dead, yet there is Lu Hsün. And he is quite near, in Chingchou. He is reputed to be a scholar, but really he is a bold and capable man, no whit inferior to Chou Yü, in my opinion. The plan that broke Kuan Yü was his. If anyone can destoy Shu, it is he. If he fail, then I will stand the same punishment as may be his.”
」步骘亦曰：「逊才堪治郡耳；若托以大事，非其宜也。」阚泽大呼曰：「若不用陆伯言，则东吴休矣！臣愿以全家保之！」权曰：「孤亦素知陆伯言乃奇才也。孤意已决，卿等勿言。」
“If you had not spoken thus my whole scheme might have gone amiss,” said Sun Ch‘üan. “Lu Hsün is a student,” said Chang Chao. “He is no match for Liu Pei. You may not use him.” Ku Yung also said, “He is too young and too inexperienced. I fear he will not be obeyed, and that will be mischievous.” Pu Chi also said, “He is well enough to control a district, but he is not fit for a big matter.” K‘an Tsê got desperate. “It is the only hope,” shouted he. “I will guarantee him with the lives of all my house.” “I know he is able,” said Sun Ch'üan, “and I have now made up my mind he is the man. Gentlemen, that is enough.”
于是命召陆逊。逊本名陆议，后改名逊，字伯言，乃吴郡吴人也。汉城门校尉陆纡之孙，九江都尉陆骏之子。身长八尺，麺如美玉。官领镇西将军。当下奉召而至。参拜毕，权曰：「今蜀兵临境，孤特命卿总督军马，以破刘备。」逊曰：「江东文武，皆大王故旧之臣；
Lu Hsün was called home. Lu Hsün was originally named Lu I: his tzŭ was Po-yen. He was a native of Wu, son of Lu Chün, who was Tu-yü of Kiukiang and grandson of Lu Yü. He was of medium height, with a clear complexion, “like the finest jade.” Having arrived at court and made his bow, Sun Ch'üan said to him, “I wish to send you in supreme command of all the forces against Shu.”
臣年无才，安能制之？」权曰：「阚德润以全家保卿，孤亦素知卿才。今拜卿为大都督，卿勿推辞。」逊曰：「倘文武不服，何如？」权取所佩剑与之曰：「如有不听号令者，先斩后奏。」逊曰：「荷蒙重托，敢不拜命？但乞大王于来日会聚众官，然后赐臣。
“Sir, you have numerous old and tried officers under your command; I am very young and not at all clever,” replied Lu. “K‘an Tsê goes bail for you and pledges his whole house. Moreover, I know your abilities. You must be Commander-in-chief and may not refuse the appointment.”
」阚泽曰：「古之命将，必筑坛会众，赐白旄黄钺，印绶兵符，然后威行令肃。今大王宜遵此礼，择日筑坛，拜伯言为大都督，假节钺，则众人自无不服矣。
“But what will happen if the officers do not support me?” “Here is authority!” said Sun Ch'üan, taking his own sword from his side. “Slay the disobedient and report afterwards.” “I am grateful for this proof of confidence, but I dare not accept forthwith. I pray you to assemble all the officers and confer the office upon me in their presence.”
」权从之，命人连夜筑坛完备，大会百官，请陆逊登坛拜为大都督、右护军镇西将军，进封娄侯，赐以宝剑卬绶，令掌六郡八十一州兼荆楚诸路军马。吴王嘱之曰：「阃以内，孤主之；阃以外，将军制之。」
Said K‘an Tsê, “The ancient fashion was to set up a platform and thereon present to the leader-elect a white yak’s tail and a golden axe with the seal of office and the fu (commission). Thereafter his dignity and the reverence due from others were beyond all question. It would be well, O Prince, to follow the old rule. Choose a good day and appoint Lu Hsün before all the world, and no one will refuse support.” An altar was begun at once. They worked at it day and night, and as soon as it was finished a great assembly was called. Then Lu Hsün was requested to ascend and make his bow on receiving his appointment as “Commander-in-chief, Leader of the Senior Guardian Army of the West and Marquis of Fênglou.” The sword of authority and the seal of office were presented. His powers extended over the six districts and the eighty-one departments (of Chiangnan), over the forces in Chingchou and Chin. And in charging him Sun Ch'üan said, “Domestic affairs belong to me; outer affairs are under your direction.”
逊领命下坛，令徐盛、丁奉为护卫，即日出师；一麺调诸路军马，水陆并进。文书到猇亭，韩当、周泰大惊：「主上如何以一书生总兵耶？」比及逊至，众皆不服。逊升帐议事，众人勉强参贺。逊曰：「主上命吾为大将，督军破蜀。军有常法，公等各宜遵守。
Lu Hsün then descended. He chose Hsü Shêng and Ting Fêng as commanders of his guards, and the army lost no time in taking the field. The various dispositions of horse and foot were made, and despatches were sent to the outlying commanders. When the despatch reached Han Tang and Chou T‘ai they were much upset at this appointment of a mere bookish student to command them. So when the new Commander-in-chief came they showed their discontent by a lack of hearty support. Lu Hsün went to his tent to receive the reports, and there the majority of the officers manifested only sullen respect and unwilling deference.
违者王法无亲，勿致后悔。」众皆默然。周泰曰：「目今安东将军孙桓，乃主上之姪，见困于彝陵城中，内无粮草，外无救兵；请都督早施良策，救出孙桓，以安主上之心。」逊曰：「吾素知孙安东深得军心，必能坚守，不必救之。待吾破蜀后，彼自出矣。
Then Lu addressed them, saying, “By order of my superior I am Commander-in-chief, and my commission is to destroy Shu. You, gentlemen, all know the ordinary military rules, and you would do well to obey them. The law is no respecter of persons, as those who disobey will find out. Do not have to regret when it is too late.” They nodded in sullen acquiescence. Then Chou T‘ai said, “There is Sun Huan, nephew of our prince; he is surrounded at Iling and is short of food. I venture to request you to send relief to him and get him out so that the prince’s heart may be comforted.” “I know all about him. His men are faithful, and he can easily maintain his position. There is no need to go to his aid. When Shu is broken he will be free to come out.”
」众皆暗笑而退。韩当谓周泰曰：「命此孺子为将，东吴休矣！公见彼所行乎？」泰曰：「吾聊以言试之，并无一计，安能破蜀也？」
They all sniggered as they left the tent, and Han Tang did not fail to express his contempt for the newly appointed “scholar.” “This will be the end of Wu,” said he to his colleague. “Did you note what he said?” “I tried him just to see what he would do,” said Chou T‘ai. “You see he had no plan ready; he destroy Shu indeed!”
次日，陆逊传下号令，教诸将各处关防，牢守隘口，不许轻敌。众皆笑其懦，不肯坚守。次日，陆逊升帐唤将曰：「吾钦奉王命，总督诸军，昨已三令五申，令汝等各处坚守；俱不遵吾令，何也？」韩当曰：「吾自从孙将军平定江南，经数百战；
Next day general orders were issued for defence and prohibitions against giving battle, which provoked more laughter at the incapable pedant, as they thought him, in command, and secret resolves to disobey. Moreover, the officers showed their contempt by a general disregard of orders. So once more Lu Hsun assembled them and said, “You know I am in command; yet the recent orders for defence have been disregarded. Why?”
其余诸将，或从讨逆将军，或从当今大王，皆披坚执锐，出生入死之士。今主上命公为大都督，令退蜀兵，宜早定计，调拨军马，分头征进，以图大事；乃只令坚守勿战，岂欲待天自杀贼耶？吾非贪生怕死之人，奈何使吾等堕其锐气？
Then Han Tang spoke up, “Some of us followed General Sun when he first subdued Chiangnan. Others won fame in destroying rebels, or in following the present prince in his campaigns. All of us have donned our armour and gripped our weapons in many a bloody fight. Now, Sir, you have been placed in supreme command to repulse Shu, and there should be some plan of campaign made for us at once, some dispositions of our forces and some definite advance toward that end. Instead of that we are told to strengthen our defences and are forbidden to fight. What are we to wait for? Will Heaven destroy our opponents for us? We are not afraid to die. Why is our keenness left to be eaten away and our energies wasted in idleness?'
」于是帐下诸将，皆应声而言曰：「韩将军之言是也，吾等情愿决一死战！」陆逊听毕，掣剑在手，厉声曰：「仆虽一介书生，今蒙主上托以重任者，以吾有尺寸可取，能忍辱负重故也。汝等各宜守隘口，牢把险要，不许妄动。如违令者皆斩！」众皆愤愤而退。
All the others applauded this speech and cried that the speaker had expressed their own ideas. “General Han Tang just says what we think: let us fight a decisive battle,” they cried. The new general waited till the uproar had subsided. Then drawing his sword, he shouted, “That I am a student is true. But I have been entrusted with a great task, a task for which the prince considers me competent and for the performance of which I am prepared to bear all the responsibilities. As for you, you will do well to act on the defensive as I ordered and not allow yourselves to be led astray into any attacks. And. I shall put the disobedient to death.” This speech had little effect, and they dispersed mumping and grumbling.
却说先主自猇亭布列军马，直至川口，接连七百里，前后四十营寨，昼则旌旗蔽日，夜则火光耀天。忽细作报说；「东吴用陆逊为大都督，总制军马。逊令诸将各守险要不出。」先主问曰：「陆逊何如人也？」马良奏曰：「逊虽东吴一书生，然年幼多才，深有谋略；
As has been told, the First Ruler had made a long chain of stations reaching back to his base, and these camps looked very imposing with their fluttering banners by day and their fires at night. Then the spies came in and told him of the new commander of the Wu army and his policy and orders to defend. “What sort of a man is this Lu Hsün?” said he. “He is famous as a scholar among the people of Wu, and, though young, he is very talented,” replied Ma Liang. “His schemes are very deep. He was the author of the villainous and crafty plan of attack on Chingchou.”
前袭荆州，皆系此人之诡计。」先主大怒曰：「竖子诡谋，损朕二弟，今当擒之！」便传令进兵。马良谏曰：「陆逊之才，不亚周郎，未可轻敌。」先主曰：「朕用兵老矣，岂反不如一黄口孺子耶！」遂亲领前军，攻打诸处津隘口。
“His crafty scheme caused the deaths of my brothers, the blockhead; but now I shall have him,” said Liu Pei. He gave orders to advance. But Ma Liang ventured to remonstrate and dissuade him. “Be very careful,” said he; "this Lu Hsün is no whit inferior to Chou Yü.” “I have grown old in the field,” said the king. “Don‘t you think me a match for this callow youth?” He confirmed the order to go forward, and they attacked pass and ford and redoubt wherever they were. Han Tang notified his chief of the attack, and Lu Hsün, still rather dubious of the strict obedience to his orders, hastened to the point of danger. He found Han Tang on a hill surveying the enemy’s force, which advanced like a great wave. Amidst the army they saw a wide yellow umbrella, and Han Tang pointed it out.
韩当见先主兵来，差人报知陆逊。逊恐韩当妄动，急飞马自来观看，正见韩当立马于山上，远望蜀兵漫山遍野而来，军中隐隐有黄罗盖伞。韩当接著陆逊，并马而观。当指曰：「军中必有刘备，吾欲击之。」逊曰：「刘备举兵东下，连胜十余阵，锐气正盛；
“That must be Liu Pei,” said he. “I should like to kill him.' “Careful,” said Lu Hsün. “So far he has scored victory after victory, and his men are very keen and confident. Maintain a careful defence and do not go out to battle. If you do, you will lose. Impress that upon your officers and men and make them understand the strategy while you follow the enemy’s moves. They are hastening into the wide open space of P‘ingyüan, and I do not wish to hinder them. Nor will I accept any challenge to battle, but wait till they have moved their camps into the forest and among the trees. Then I shall have a scheme ready.' ”
今只乘高守险，不可轻出，出则不利。但宜奖励将士，广布防御之策，以观其变。今彼驰骋于平原广野之间，正自得志；我坚守不出，彼求战不得，必移屯于山林树木间。吾当以奇计胜之。」韩当口虽应诺，心中只是不服。
Han Tang agreed so far as words went, but in his heart he was still mutinous and ill-conditioned. When the Shu army drew near, a small force came to challenge. They shouted all sorts of abuse and hurled reproaches to put their opponents to shame, but Lu Hsün took no notice and bade his men stop their ears. He would not allow them to go out to battle, but he went from fort to redoubt encouraging the soldiers to remain carefully on the defensive.
先主使前队搦战，辱骂百端。逊令塞耳休听，不许出迎，亲自遍历诸关隘口，抚慰将士，皆令坚守。先主见吴军不出，心中焦躁。马良曰：「陆逊深有谋略，今陛下远来攻战，自春历夏；彼之不出，欲待我军之变也。愿陛下察之。」先主曰：「彼有何谋？但怯敌耳；
The First Ruler’s heart burned within him at this refusal to come out to battle, and it angered him none the less that Ma Liang dinned into his ears how deep Lu Hsün was and crafty. “He recognises the disadvantages of Your Majesty’s troops in being far from their base, and from spring to autumn he will not come out to fight till some move occurs that he may profit by.” “What ruse can he be contemplating?” said Liu Pei. “The real fact is that he is afraid. Their army has suffered nothing but defeat times and again. They dare not meet us.”
向者数败，今安敢再出？」先锋冯习奏曰：「即今天气炎热，军屯于赤火之中，取水深为不便。」先主遂命各营，皆移于山林茂盛之地，近溪傍涧；待过夏到秋，并力进兵。冯习遂奉旨，将诸寨皆移于林木阴密之处。马良奏曰：「吾军若动，倘吴兵骤至，如之奈何？
One day the leader of the van, Fêng Hsi, memorialised the First Ruler, saying, “The weather is scorching and the troops are camped in the full glare of sun. Beside, water is scarce and hard to get.” Thereupon orders were given to move the camps into the shade of the forest close by and near the streams till the summer heats should have passed. This order given, Fêng Hsi was the first to choose a retired and shady spot for his men. Ma Liang said, “If our men move, the enemy will rush out on us and we shall be hard set.”
」先主曰：「朕令吴班引万余弱兵，近吴寨平地屯住；朕亲选八千精兵，伏于山谷之中。若陆逊知朕移营，必乘势来击，却令吴班诈败；逊若追来，朕引兵突出，断其归路，小子可擒矣。」文武皆贺曰；「陛下神机妙算，诸臣不及也！」
“I will provide for that,” said the First Ruler. “I will send Wu Pan with a legion of our inferior troops to camp near their lines. But I will choose eight companies of veterans and place them in ambush. Wu Pan will have orders to flee before the men of Wu and lead them into my ambush if they come out, and I will cut off their retreat. We ought to capture this precocious youth.” “A genius in plans, a marvel of prevision!” cried all those about him as this plan was unfolded. “None of us can approach him in cleverness.” So they felicitated their ruler. But Ma Liang said, “They say the Prime Minister is on a tour of inspection of the fastnesses in the eastern portion of Shu, seeing that they are in good order against any attack on the part of Wei. Why not send him a sketch of your present dispositions of troops and ask his opinion?”
马良曰：「近闻诸葛丞相在东川点看各处隘口，恐魏兵入寇。陛下何不将各营移居之地，划成图本，问于丞相？」先主曰：「朕亦颇知兵法，何必又问丞相？」良曰：「古云：『兼听则明，偏听则蔽。』望陛下察之。
“I also am not entirely ignorant of the art of war, and I see no reason to seek advice,” was the cold reply. “There is an old saying about hearing both sides,” said Ma Liang.
」先主曰：「卿可自去各营，划成四至八道图本，亲到东川去问丞相。如有不便，可急来报知。」马良领命而去。于是先主移兵于林木阴密处避暑。早有细作报知韩当、周泰。
“Well, then; you go round to all the camps and make a map and take it to the Prime Minister. If he finds any fault you may come and tell me.” So he went while the First Ruler busied himself with getting his men into shelter from the fierce heat of summer. His move was no secret, and the scouts soon told Han and Chou, who rejoiced at the news and soon went to tell Lu Hsün that all the enemies' camps had been moved into the shade.
二人听得此事，大喜，来见陆逊曰：「目今蜀兵四十余营，皆移于山林密处，依溪傍涧，就水歇凉。都督可乘虚击之。」正是：
“Now, Sir, you can attack!” said they. 'Twas not a bad plan, an ambush to set, Thus thought he his chiefest opponent to get. Whether Lu Hsün acted upon the suggestion of his subordinates will be seen in the next chapter.
蜀主有谋能设伏，吴兵好勇定遭擒。
The Lord of Shu, skilled in strategy, sets an ambush; the Wu soldiers, bold but reckless, are bound to be captured.
未知陆逊可听其言否，且看下文分解。
Whether Lu Xun would heed these words, the sequel must be told in the next chapter.