The Book of Poetry: Section II. The Decade of Ch‘ên Kung: IX. Yu K‘o
The Book of Poetry, tr. by James Legge, [1876]
The polished members of his train
Are with him come in state.
With reverence and dignity,
For his commands they wait.
Our noble visitor will stay
But for one night or two.
Glad should we be if he would think
Two nights or four were due.
Bring forth the ropes to bind his steeds.
Alas! he will not bide.
To him be every comfort given!
A parting feast provide!
The greatest dignity is his.
’Tis right our noble guest
Should with their choicest favors be
By men and spirits graced!