"The king was very much impressed by the man's story, particularly with
the evidence of such great devotion to his father, even in the time of
poverty and misfortune. So he said: 'This is really the most
extraordinary instance of filial love that I ever saw. I think you
should present yourself at the examination to-morrow.'

"'What examination?'

"'Why, there is to be an examination before the king of candidates for
official position. You know that all officials have to pass an
examination before they can receive an appointment. Be sure to be
there, and you may be fortunate enough to secure a position which will
remove all fear of poverty from your household.'

"Having thus spoken, Cheng-chong bade the man good night and went at
once to his palace.

"Very early in the morning he caused proclamation to be made that an
examination would be held that day, at a certain hour. Notwithstanding
the brief time for preparation, when the hour arrived a large number of
men presented themselves at the king's palace as candidates.

"In the crowd was the poor man whom the king, in his disguise, had
talked with the night before. Though he understood little of the matter,
he felt that his visitor of the previous night must have known perfectly
about it.

"When all had assembled, the following was announced as the subject of
the examination: 'The song of a man in mourning, the dance of a nun, the
tears of an old man.'