_Chang paou_ remained like a statue without motion, and Fei hëung chow went on to say: [sd: (16 v.)] "You should think about this affair in time, and not stay till the last moment. Is it not clear that O po tae, since you could not agree together, has joined government. He being enraged against you, will fight, united with the forces of the government, for your destruction; and who could help you, so that you might overcome your enemies? If O po tae could before vanquish you quite alone, how much more can he now when he is united with government? O po tae will then satisfy his hatred against you, and you yourself will soon be taken either at Wei chow or at Neaou chow. [sd: (17 r.)] If the merchant-vessels of Hwy chaou, the boats of Kwang chow, and all the fishing-vessels unite together to surround and attack you in the open sea, you will certainly have enough to do. But even supposing they should not attack you, you will soon feel the want of provisions, to sustain you and all your followers. It is always wisdom to provide before things happen; stupidity and folly never think about future events. It is too late to reflect upon events when things have happened; you should, therefore, consider this matter in time!" Paou held a deliberation with the wife of Ching y[)i]h, and she said: "The Doctor Chow is certainly right in all that he says; Paou may agree with him." Paou then asked the Doctor: "Have you any commission about this matter, or not?" The Doctor answered, "How could I trifle with the sentiments of government; this would be declared an improper behaviour. [sd: (17 v.)] Neither can I see through the intentions of the wife of Ching y[)i]h nor through those of the officers of government; you can clear up all doubts, if you will collect your vessels about Shao kë[)o], outside the Bocca Tigris, you may yourself hear the orders." [Sidenote: 1810.]