Chinese Merry Tales (1909)/Gratefulness of a Target God

Chapter XXVI.—Gratefulness of a Target God.
(垜子神助陣.)

THERE was a military officer in charge of some soldiers. One day he was in a battle and fought in the front ranks. Just at the moment of defeat some one unexpectedly came to his assistance and converted his defeat into victory. The officer kowtowed and thanked him. He asked: "What superior god are you that has come to save us?" The god replied: "I am the target god, come specially to save you." The officer said: "What good act has your servant done to you to deserve saving?" The target god immediately replied: "I appreciate your former skill in regard to your use of the bow and arrow. You have never injured me with a single arrow."