the air. Hence in sacrificing, the people of Yin began with a
performance of music.'

3. The Li Ki, XXIV, i, parr. 2, 3, tells us, that the sacrificer, as
preliminary to the service, had to fast for some days, and to think of
the person of his ancestor,--where he had stood and sat, how he had
smiled and spoken, what had been his cherished aims, pleasures, and
delights; and on the third day he would have a complete image of him in
his mind's eye. Then on the day of sacrifice, when he entered the
temple, he would seem to see him in his shrine, and to hear him, as he
went about in the discharge of the service. This line seems to indicate
the realization of all this.]

drums and drums; Shrilly sound the flutes; All harmonious and blending
together, According to the notes of the sonorous gem. Oh! majestic is
the descendant of Thang; Very admirable is his music.

The large bells and drums fill the ear; The various dances are grandly
performed[1]. We have the admirable visitors[2], who are pleased and
delighted.

From of old, before our time, The former men set us the example;--How to
be mild and humble from morning to night, And to be reverent in
discharging the service.

May he regard our sacrifices of winter and autumn[3], (Thus) offered by
the descendant of Thang!


ODE 2. THE LIEH ZU.