There is the following traditional story: In Sung there was a
great flood.[2]
A man from Lu condoled with [the Prince of Sung]
saying, "Heaven has sent down excessive rains, injuring the millet
for sacrifices and spreading over your land, to the grief of those
in charge of the government. I have been sent respectfully to
condole with you."
The Prince of Sung replied,[3]
"I have not practiced jên. Fasts
and prohibitions have not been regulated, nor, in employing the
people, has the proper time been chosen; [hence] Heaven has
visited us with disaster. Having in addition caused you concern,
I beg to acknowledge the condescension of your message."
Confucius heard of this and said,[4]
"Sung is almost ready [for
enlightened government]."
A disciple said, "What do you mean?"
Confucius said, "Of old Chieh and Chou did not admit their
faults, and their destruction was swift indeed. Ch`êng-t`ang and
King Wên knew enough to recognize their faults, and their rise
was sudden indeed. To reform after having committed faults is
not to be at fault."
After the Prince of Sung heard of this remark, he rose early
and retired late. He mourned for the dead, made polite enquiries
after those who were ill,[5]
and greatly exerted himself inside the
country. After three years the harvests were abundant and the
government was tranquil. If previously the Prince of Sung had
not heard of Confucius' words, the grain harvested would not
have been abundant, nor would the state have been at peace. The
Ode says,
[6]
He assists me to bear the burden [of my position],[7]
And shows me how to display a virtuous conduct.
