The army retired and Kuan Yü with his force re-entered the city, where he saw that the people were following their ordinary avocations in tranquillity. He came to the palace and went in to see the two ladies, who hastened to meet him. He bowed to them below the steps and said, “I apologise for having caused you to feel alarmed.” “Where is the Uncle?” asked they. “I know not whither he has gone.” “What do you intend to do, brother-in-law?” “I went out of the city to try a last battle. I was surrounded on a hill top and Chang Liao has urged me to yield. I proposed three conditions, all of which were conceded, and the enemy drew off to allow me to return to the city. Unless I have your decision, sisters-in-law, I scarcely dare to take any final step.” They asked what were the conditions and were told. Then Kan Fu-jên said, “When Tsʻao’s army came in we took it to mean certain death. But it is scarcely credible that not a hair of our heads has been disturbed, not a soldier has dared enter our doors. You have accepted the conditions, brother-in-law, and there is no need to ask our consent. Our only fear is that he will not let you go by and by to search for the Uncle.” “Sisters-in-law, you need not be anxious. I will see to that.” “You must decide everything and need not ask us women-kind.” Kuan Yü withdrew and then, with a small escort, went to his interview with Tsʻao Tsʻao. Tsʻao came to the outermost gate to welcome him and Kuan Yü dismounted and made obeisance. Tsʻao returned his salute with the greatest cordiality. “The leader of a defeated army is grateful for the graciousness that has preserved his life,” said Kuan Yü. “I have so long admired your loyalty and high principles that this happy meeting gratifies the desire of my whole life,” replied Tsʻao. “As the Minister has granted the three requests which my friend petitioned for on my behalf there is now but little to discuss,” said Kuan. “As I have spoken, so be it; I could not break faith,” replied Tsʻao. “Whenever I hear where Uncle Liu is I must certainly go to him, even if through fire and water. It may be that there there will be no opportunity of taking leave. I trust you will understand the reason.” “If Liu Pei should prove to be alive you must certainly be allowed to go to him. But I fear that in the confusion he may have lost his life. You may set your mind at rest and let me make enquiries.” Kuan Yü thanked him. Then a banquet was prepared in his honour. Next day the army started on its homeward march. For the journey to the capital a carriage was prepared for the two ladies and Kuan Yü was its guard. On the road they rested at a certain post station and Tsʻao Tsʻao, anxious to compromise Kuan by beguiling him into forgetfulness of his duty, assigned him to the same apartment as his sisters-in-law. Kuan stood the whole night before the door with a lighted candle in his hand. Not once did he yield to fatigue. Tsʻao Tsʻao’s respect for him could not but increase.