13. Leniency should be shown to prisoners charged
(even) with great crimes, and their allowance of food
be increased[1].
14. Impregnated mares are collected in herds by themselves, and the fiery stallions are tied up. The rules for the rearing of horses are given out.
15. In this month the longest day arrives. The influences in nature of darkness and decay and those of brightness and growth struggle together; the tendencies to death and life are divided[2]. Superior men give themselves to vigil and fasting. They keep retired in their houses, avoid all violent exercise, restrain their indulgence in music and beautiful sights, eschew the society of their wives, make their diet spare, use no piquant condiments, keep their desires under rule, and maintain their spirits free from excitement The various magistrates keep things quiet and inflict no punishments[3];—to bring about that state of settled quiet in which the influence of dark- ness and decay shall obtain its full development.
16. Deer shed their horns. Cicadas begin to sing. The midsummer herb is produced. The tree hibiscus flowers[4].
17. In this month fires should not be lighted (out of doors) in the southern regions (of the country).
- ↑ The leniency would be seen in the lightening of their fetters for one thing,—in consequence of the exhaustion produced by the season.
- ↑ Decay begins to set in, while growth and vigour seek to maintain their hold.
- ↑ The Khien-lung editors approve a reading here, which means, instead of "no punishments," "no rash or hurried action."
- ↑ The "tree hibiscus" is the "hibiscus syriacus." The "half-summer herb" is medicinal. It is "white, with round seeds, and of a hot and pungent taste."
T 2
