In ancient times, a man of the State of Song picked up a stone in Linzi. He examined it over and over and regarded it as a treasure. He quickly took it home, wrapped it up in dozens of silk layers, then put it in a leather box. But he still felt uneasy, so he covered the box with dozens of boxes.
When a man who could identify treasures heard of this, he went at once to this man and asked to have a look at the treasure.
To be prudent1, this man of Song took a bath, burned incense2, cleansed3 his mind, calmed his mood, and went in for self- cultivation4 for seven days. Then be put on ceremonial robes, respectfully took out the box, and carefully took the stone out of the box.
When the man who knew about treasures saw it, he nearly burst into laughter, but quickly covered his mouth with his hand. He whispered close t
