1. When he was carrying the scepter of his prince, he seemed to bend his body, as if he were not able to bear its weight. He did not hold it higher than the position of the hands in making

5. DEMEANOUR OF CONFUCIUS WHEN EMPLOYED ON A FRIENDLY EMBASSY. 1. 圭may be translated 'sceptre', in the sense simply of 'a badge of authority'. It was a precious stone, conferred by the emperor on the princes, and differed in size and shape, according to their rank. They took it with them when they attended the imper. court, and, acc. to Choo He, and the old interpr., it was carried also by their representative, as their voucher, on occasions of embassies among themselves. In the 摭余说, II. 33, however, it is contended, appar. on suff. grounds, that the scepter then employed was different from the other. 胜, up. 1st tone, 'to be equal to', 'able for'. 2. The prec. par. describes Conf. manner in the friendly court, at his first interview, showing his credentials, and delivering his message. That done, he had to deliver the various presents with which he was charged. This was called 享,=献. 3. After all the public presents were delivered, the ambassador had others of his own to give, and his interview for that purpose was called 私觌.—Choo He remarks that there is no record of Confucius ever having been employed on such a mission, and supposes that this ch., and the preced., are simply summaries of the manner in which he used to say duties referred to in them ought to be discharged.

a bow, nor lower than their position in giving anything to another. His countenance seemed to change, and look apprehensive, and he dragged his feet along as if they were held by something to the ground.

2. In presenting the presents with which he was charged, he wore a placid appearance.

3. At his private audience, he looked highly pleased.