The prowess displayed by Kuan Yü in the bold attack on Yen Liang redoubled Tsʻao Tsʻao’s respect for him and he memorialised the throne that Kuan Yü receive the title of Marquis of Hanshoutʻing and a seal was cast for him. Just then came the unexpected news that Yüan Shao’s army had moved toward the Yellow River and was in position above Yenching. Tsʻao first sent to transfer the inhabitants to Hsiho and then led out an army to oppose Yüan Shao. He issued an order to face about, thus placing the rear companies in front. The commissariat wagons were also placed in the van. “What is this reversal for?” asked Lü Chʻien. Tsʻao replied, “When the supplies are in rear they are liable to be plundered. So I have put them first.” “But if you meet the enemy and they steal them?” “Wait till the enemy appears; I shall know what to do.” Lü Chʻien was much exercised at this new move of the Minister’s. In the meantime the supply train moved along the river toward Yenching. Presently the foremost troops raised a great shout and Tsʻao sent to see what it meant. The messenger came back to say Wên Chʻou’s army was approaching, and the supply train had been abandoned and was at the mercy of the enemy. Thereupon Tsʻao pointed to two mounds saying, “We will take refuge here for the present.” All those near him hastened to the mounds. There Tsʻao ordered them all to loosen their dress, lay aside their breastplates and rest a time. The horsemen turned their steeds loose. Wên Chʻou’s men approached under cover. As they drew near one after another the officers told Tsʻao saying, “The rebels are near: we ought to catch the horses and go back to Paima.” But the adviser, Hsün Yu, checked them saying, “These are a bait for the enemy: why retire?” Tsʻao glanced across at him and said, “He understands; do not say anything.” Now having got possession of the supply carts the enemy next came to seize the horses. By this time they had all broken ranks and were scattered, each man going his own way. Then suddenly Tsʻao gave the order to go down from the mounds and smite them. The surprise was complete. Wên Chʻou’s army was in confusion and Tsʻao’s men surrounded them. Wên Chʻou made a stand, but those about him trampled each other down and he could do nothing but flee. And he fled. Then standing on the top of a mound Tsʻao pointed to the flying leader calling out, “There is one of the most famous captains of the north; who can capture him?” Chang Liao and Hsü Huang both mounted and dashed after him, crying, “Wên Chʻou, do not run away!” Looking round, the fugitive saw two pursuers and then he set aside his spear, took his bow and adjusted an arrow, which he shot at Chang Liao.