the walls of his well-fortified residence since the trouble arose;
but, as you carry a sword of conspicuous excellence, you will
doubtless be welcome."

Upon making a third attempt Ling was more successful, for he inquired
of an aged woman, who had neither a reputation for keen and polished
sentences to maintain, nor any interest in the acts of the Mandarin or
of the rebels. From her he learned how to reach the Yamen, and
accordingly turned his footsteps in that direction. When at length he
arrived at the gate, Ling desired his tablets to be carried to the
Mandarin with many expressions of an impressive and engaging nature,
nor did he neglect to reward the porter. It was therefore with the
expression of a misunderstanding mind that he received a reply setting
forth that Li Keen was unable to receive him. In great doubt he
prevailed upon the porter, by means of a still larger reward, again to
carry in his message, and on this occasion an answer in this detail
was placed before him.

"Li Keen," he was informed, "is indeed awaiting the arrival of one
Ling, a noble and valiant Commander of Bowmen. He is given to
understand, it is true, that a certain person claiming the same
honoured name is standing in somewhat undignified attitudes at the
gate, but he is unable in any way to make these two individuals meet
within his intellect. He would further remind all persons that the
refined observances laid down by the wise and exalted Board of Rites
and Ceremonies have a marked and irreproachable significance when the
country is in a state of disorder, the town surrounded by rebels, and
every breathing-space of time of more than ordinary value."

Overpowered with becoming shame at having been connected with so