that his desire for such progress has simply railed a very natural wish to see his own countrymen paramount and the barbarian once more at their feet.
1149
Li I (Chinese characters) (T. (
Chinese characters)) Died A.D. 713. A native of Chao-chon in Ghihli, who graduated as chin shih, and rose to be President of the Board of Punishments, being also ennobled as Duke. An upright and fearless official, he chiefly distinguished himself as a poet. His writings, together with those of his two elder brothers, were published under the title of (
Chinese characters).
1150
Li I (Chinese characters) (T.(
Chinese characters)). Died A.D.? 827. A poet and official
of the T'ang dynasty. At one time his poems were in great demand,
and were sung to music all over the empire. Somewhat disgusted
with official life, he took to wandering; but later on returned to
Court and became a sub-Librarian in the Imperial Library,
ultimately retiring as President of the Board of Bites. He was
known as (
Chinese characters) Literary Li I , to distinguish him from
a contemporary official of the same name.
1151
Li I-fu (Chinese characters) . Died A.D. 666. A native of Jao-yang in
Chihli. He was recommended to the second Emperor of the T'ang
dynasty who made him a Censor, and gained the favour of his
successor by advising in 655 that the Lady Wu should be raised
to the rank of Empress. By her influence he became Minister and
was ennobled as Duke; a house was bestowed on him; his infant
sons received offices; and he was allowed to bury his mother beside
the Imperial Mausoleum. He presumed on his position to sell
appointments in the most open manner , and in 658 was condemned
to banishment to Yünnan. Being excepted from the general pardon,
of 666, he died of mortification. It was said that there was "a
knife in his smile;" and from his smooth and treacherous manner,
coupled with great cruelty, he received the nickname of (
Chinese characters)
Li the Cat.