| | Only by the mandate of the Son of Heaven, I go out to all directions to observe customs; listening cannot be unkeen, and sight cannot be unclear. The envoy's mission is like the sovereign's ears and eyes; if one does not listen keenly or see clearly, he cannot fulfill his responsibility. If one listens keenly, then matters are carefully examined; if one sees clearly, then principles are properly discerned. If one does not listen keenly, he will be confused by what he hears; if one does not see clearly, his vision will be obscured. When principles are discerned, loyalty is achieved; when matters are examined carefully, distinctions become clear. If principles are not discerned, then judgments will be biased; if matters are not examined carefully, trust and belief will be confused. A gentleman removes his private interests and maintains a proper demeanor. When private interests are removed, emotions are extinguished; when one's demeanor is proper, evil is kept at bay. Do not harm principles in order to injure things. If one seeks punishment for the sake of public justice, it will become harsh and superficial. Do not fear power when recommending appointments. Recommendations must be based on talent, not necessarily on influence or power. Only goodness is to be supported; only evil is to be removed. Even if good, though an enemy, must be recommended; even if bad, though a relative, must be dismissed. With this approach, promotion will lead to success. This is the effectiveness of a gentleman. With this approach, when one goes out (on duty), there will be no resentment. This is the submission of a petty person to guilt. If this is so, then all under heaven will respect their duties and myriad states will enjoy peace. When officials diligently attend to governance, the people begin to find security. The Shi Jing says: "Rushing and galloping, they inquire widely around." Diligence without rest encourages goodness.
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