Now as to that a certain official named Wang Li, who was a student of astrology, said to one Liu Ai, “I have been studying the stars. Since last spring Venus has been nearing the ‘Guard’ star in the neighbourhood of the ‘Measure,’ and the ‘Cowherd’ [5] crossing the River of Heaven. [6] Mars has been retrograding and came into conjunction with Venus in the Gate of Heaven, [7] so that ‘Metal’ and ‘Fire’ are mingled. Thence must emerge a new ruler. The aura of the Hans is exhausted and Chin and Wei must increase.” A secret memorial was presented to the Emperor Hsien saying, “The Mandate of Heaven has its course and the five elements are out of proportion. ‘Earth’ is attacking ‘Fire’ and the successor to the Empire of Han is in Wei.” Tsʻao heard of these sayings and memorials and sent a man to the astrologer to say, “Your loyalty is well known, but the ways of Heaven are past finding out. The less said the better.” Hsün, the adviser, expounded the meaning thus: “The virtue of Han was fire; your element is earth. Hsütu is under the influence of earth and so your fortune depends on getting there. Fire can overcome earth, as earth can multiply wood. Tung Chao and the astrologer agree and you have only to bide your time.” So Tsʻao made up his mind. Next day at Court he said, “The capital is deserted and cannot be restored nor can it be supplied easily with food. Hsütu is a noble city, standing close to a fruitful district. It is everything that a capital should be. I venture to request that the Court move thither.” The Emperor dared not oppose and the officials were too overawed to have any independent opinion so they chose a day to set out. Tsʻao commanded the escort and the officials all followed. When they had travelled a few stages they saw before them a high mound and from behind this there arose the beating of drums. Then Yang and Han came out and barred the way. In front of all stood Hsü Huang, who shouted, “Tsʻao Tsʻao is stealing away the Emperor!” Tsʻao rode out and took a good look at this man. He seemed a fine fellow and in his secret soul Tsʻao greatly admired him, although he was an enemy. Then he ordered Hsü Chʻu to go and fight him. The combat was axe against broadsword and the two men fought more than half a hundred bouts without advantage to either side. Tsʻao then beat the gongs and drew off his men. In the camp a council was called. Tsʻao said, “The two rebels themselves need not be discussed; but Hsü Huang is a fine captain and I was unwilling to use any great force against him. I want to win him over to our side.” An officer, Man Chʻung, replied, “Do not let that trouble you; I will have a word with him. I shall disguise myself as a soldier this evening and steal over to the enemy’s camp to talk to him. I shall incline his heart toward you.”