“I have heard lately that Liu Pei is with Yüan Shao. I would have liked to go and join him, but I have not found a convenient opportunity. Now the two men I am with have taken the side of Yüan Shao against Tsʻao. By good luck you were coming here so I got command of a small party of scouts to be able to see you and tell you. Presently our two leaders will pretend to be defeated and you, and the two ladies, can go over to Yüan Shao. And you will see your brother.” “Since he is there I certainly must go at once to see him. But it is a misfortune that I have slain two of Yüan Shao’s generals. I fear things are not in my favour,” said Kuan. “Let me go first and see how the land lies; I will come back and tell you.” “I would risk a myriad deaths to see my brother,” said Kuan Yü. “But I must go to say farewell to Tsʻao Tsʻao.” Sun Chʻien was sent away that night and next day Kuan Yü led out his men to offer battle. Kung Tu, in armour, went out to the front of the line of battle and Kuan Yü said, “You people, why have you risen against the government?” “Why do you blame us when you have turned your back on your own lord?” replied Kung Tu. “How have I turned my back on my lord?” “Liu Yüan-tê is with Yüan Pên-chʻu and you are with Tsʻao Tsʻao; what is that?” Kuan Yü could not reply, but he whirled round his sword and rode forward. Tu fled and Kuan Yü followed. Tu turned and said to Kuan Yü, “I cannot forget my old chief’s kindness. Now attack as soon as you can and I will give up the defences.” Kuan Yü understood and urged on his men. The leaders of the rebels pretended they were worsted and they all scattered. So the city was taken. Having pacified the people Kuan Yü quickly led his army back to the capital, where he was met by Tsʻao, congratulated on his success and feasted. When this was all over Kuan Yü went to the dwelling of his sisters-in-law to pay his respects at their gate. “Have you been able to get any news of Uncle Liu in your two expeditions?” asked the Lady Kan. “None,” replied Kuan Yü. As he retired from the door he heard sounds of bitter weeping within. “Alas he is dead,” said they. “Our brother-in-law thinks we shall be greatly distressed and hides the truth from us.” One of the old soldiers, who acted as guard, hearing the sounds of perpetual grief, took pity on them and said, “Do not weep, ladies; your lord is with Yüan Shao in Hopei.” “How do you know that?” said they. “I went out with General Kuan and one of the soldiers told me.” The two ladies summoned Kuan Yü and reproached him saying, “Uncle Liu never betrayed you and yet you remain here enjoying the bounty of Tsʻao Tsʻao and forgetting the old times. And you tell us falsehoods.” Kuan Yü bowed his head. “My brother really is in Hopei, but I dared not tell you, lest it should become known. Something must be done but done carefully and it needs time.” “Brother-in-law, you should hasten,” said the Lady Kan.