Book XI 653
Smokey waves appear to reach the distant sky,
And sandy waters are clear, revealing the riverbed.
Accepting myriad streams, the river flows as usual,
Carrying the whole world in its rolling tide.
The way it flows into the sea resembles no other than our king,
Who is eager to serve the great with all sincerity.Listening to Music at the Laibin Pavilion for Foreign Envoys
As foreign envoys from myriad kingdoms are gathered at the Jade
Capital,
A tall pavilion was built on the roadside to entertain them.
With the wine that warms the body,
A pure voice of a singer stirs my heart.
At the blowing wind, dress decorations jangle,
And the fluttering foresleeves of dancing girls yield fragrance.
How many envoys are privileged to enjoy a moment such as this?
And how many more times can I have it in days ahead?Watching the Performers at Zhongyi Pavilion
As a traveler in favor with the emperor goes out the gate of the
Phoenix City,
He runs into the main street, bright with fine weather, and the gait of his
horse is light.
Ascending the pavilion, he is struck by great views all around;
Lifting his cup, he indulges in watching the performance of
entertainers.
Their pleasantries and humor sound quite interesting, and
The way they move their bodies at will is very impressive.
After watching the skills displayed by the performers,
I feel quite drunk but still sober enough to remember the favor of the
emperor.Returning to My Quarters after Having Drinks at Nanshi Pavilion
A hundred- foot- tall pavilion towers over the city center;
A traveler who surveys the city cannot help being excited.