Yong Ye

Confucius said: "Ran Yong (Yong Ye) is qualified to hold office." Zhong Gong asked Confucius about Sang Bozi. Confucius replied, "He is acceptable. He handles affairs with simplicity." Zhong Gong said, "If one governs with reverence and simplicity, would that not be proper? But if one acts carelessly and still claims simplicity, would that not be excessive?" Confucius said, "Your words are correct." Duke Ai of Lu asked, "Which of your disciples loves learning most?" Confucius answered, "There was Yan Hui. He never transferred his anger nor repeated a fault. Sadly, he died young. Now there is none like him; I hear of no one who truly loves learning." When Zi Hua was sent on a mission to Qi, Ran You requested grain for his mother. Confucius said, "Give her six dou and four sheng." Ran You asked for more. Confucius said, "Add two dou and four sheng." Yet Ran You gave eight hundred dou. Confucius remarked, "Zi Hua travels to Qi with fine horses and warm furs. I have heard: A gentleman aids the needy, not the wealthy." Yuan Si served as Confucius’ steward and was offered......