Wang Yün replied, “If I am gifted with the holy spirit of the State I shall succeed in restoring the tranquillity which I desire, but if I have it not, then I offer my body a sacrifice. I will not quail before dangers. Thank the noble supporters east of the pass for their efforts and bid them remember their country.” Lü Pu urged him again and again, but he would not leave. Soon flames started up all over the city and Lü Pu had to leave, abandoning his family to their fate. He fled and joined Yüan Shu. Li Tsʻui and his fellow leaders gave full licence to their ruffians, who robbed and murdered their fill. Many high officers perished. In time they penetrated to the inner palace and the eunuchs begged the Emperor to proceed to the Hsüanpʻing Mên (the Gate of Pervading Peace) to try to quell the rioting. At sight of the yellow umbrella Li Tsʻui and Kuo Ssŭ checked their men and they all shouted “Long life O Emperor!” (Wan-sui!). The Emperor stood by the tower and addressed them, “Nobles, what means it that you enter the capital in this unruly manner and without my summons?” The two leaders looked up and said, “Tung Cho, Your Majesty’s Minister, has been slain by Wang Yün and we are here to avenge him. We are no rebels, Sire. Let us only have Wang Yün and we draw off our men.” Wang Yün was actually among the courtiers and at the Emperor’s side. Hearing this demand he said, “The plan was made for the benefit of the Throne, but as this evil has grown therefrom Your Majesty will not grudge losing me. I have brought about evil and I will go down to these rebels.” The Emperor was torn with sorrow and wavered. But the faithful Minister leaped from the wall crying, “Wang Yün is here.” The two leaders drew their swords, crying, “For what crime was our master slain? “His crimes filled the heavens and covered the earth; no tongue can tell them. The day he died was a day of rejoicing in the whole city as you well know,” said Wang. “And if he was guilty of some crime what had we done not to be forgiven?” “Seditious rebels, why bandy words? I am ready to die.” And he was slain at the foot of the tower. Moved by the people’s sufferings, Vexed at his prince’s grief, Wang Yün compassed the traitor’s death, That they might find relief. Every one knows him a hero, Leal to the State alway: Living he guarded the princely towers, His soul keeps guard to-day. Having done the loyal Minister to death at his master’s feet they proceeded to exterminate also his whole family. Every one mourned. Then said the ruffians to each other, “Having gone so far what could be better than to make away with the Emperor and complete our scheme?” The traitor condoned his crime, Rebellion ought to cease; But his licentious followers Disturb the Empire’s peace. The fate of the Emperor will be disclosed in the next chapter. CHAPTER X.