The Red-Haired Demon Sleeps Drunk in the Lingguan Temple; Chao the Heavenly King Acknowledges a Kinsman in East Creek Village

The Red-Haired Demon Sleeps Drunk in the Lingguan Temple; Chao the Heavenly King Acknowledges a Kinsman in East Creek Village A poem says: The brave and fiery Liu Tang had ill fortune; At night he wandered in the Lingguan Temple. By chance he met patrolling soldiers, Was bound and captured, a hero trapped in the countryside. The rash Lei Heng fell into a trap; The kind-hearted Chao Gai cherished talent. Those gold and silver treasures of the birthday gifts Were all delivered to his door by this man. Now Lei Heng entered the Lingguan Temple hall and saw the big man sleeping on the offering table. The soldiers came forward, tied him with ropes, and led him out of the temple. It was still early, just the fifth watch. Lei Heng said, “Let us first take this fellow to Squire Chao’s manor, find some refreshment, and then take him to the county for questioning.” The whole party hurried toward the headman’s manor. Now the headman of East Creek Village was named Chao Gai. His ancestors were rich local landowners in the county. All his life he was righteous and generous, and......