The Three Kinds of Guests

Whenever an army goes forth, the general must have various advisors and retainers around him to discuss gains and losses together, for the general to consult and make use of. Some people have words that pour forth like a waterfall, can propose extraordinary plans that ordinary people cannot foresee, possess broad knowledge and wide experience, and are versatile and talented—these are outstanding talents whom ten thousand people look up to, and they can be drawn in as upper guests. Some are fierce as bears and tigers, agile as leaping apes, firm as iron and stone, and sharp as the Longquan sword—these are heroes of the moment, and they can be listed as middle guests. Some speak much but occasionally hit the mark, possessing only shallow skills and small talents, belonging to the ability of ordinary people—these can be drawn in as lower guests. Modern Application:The previous chapter, “Mourning the Dead,” dealt with the emotional and trust bond between the leader and the main body of execution; this chapter turns its gaze to another indispensable group around the......