Song Gongming Receives the Edict and Smashes the Great Liao; At Chenqiao Post He Sheds Tears and Beheads a Minor Soldier

There is an ancient-style poem: The great peng-bird long lay hidden in the depths of the North Sea; Riding the sea wind, it soared ninety thousand li into the sky. A man may hold his sword buried among the grass and wilds; When opportunity comes, with a laugh he rises like a hawk. The court’s government was in disorder, ministers envied one another, And all the people under Heaven longed for peaceful days. How magnificent were those one hundred and eight heroes, Who valued chivalry and cherished kindness, gathered in Liangshan. Song Jiang’s breadth of mind was rare in the world, And Wu Yong’s wisdom was still more outstanding. Those who went into battle and captured foes were fierce generals; Those who wore armor and held weapons were all brave warriors. Great warships lay moored by the rushing river, And swords and spears covered the stronghold. The troops at the three passes were sternly on guard, And ordinary people trembled to hear of them. They only cut down corrupt officials who harmed the state, Acting for Heaven and letting the people live in peace. Because......