THE EPISTLE

Of the royal blood of Chinese Emperors original: "Regio Sinensium Imperatorum sanguine", he is called Confucius. By the universal consensus of the Chinese, he is considered the wisest of all who ever flourished among them, a master and oracle of both moral and political philosophy.

Just as three thousand disciples once hung upon his every word, so now a vast empire is governed by his sayings. Laws are established, the customs of the nation and civil duties are arranged according to them; finally, in the thorough study of his doctrine lies the sole hope and method for obtaining the highest honors and magistracies of the state original: "Reipublicæ." This refers to the Chinese Imperial Examination system, where knowledge of Confucian classics was the requirement for government office.. All the Chinese original: "Sinae" marvelously revere his memory, his books, and his very name. Even the emperors themselves do not disdain to visit with reverence the very houses where he once taught (which are preserved as shrines of wisdom) and his schools. And indeed, not without cause; for from such a great master they learned to adore and fear the "Supreme Emperor of Heaven" original: "Summum cæli Imperatorem." This reflects the Jesuit attempt to show that ancient Chinese philosophy was compatible with monotheism., as he called Him—the moderator and judge of all kingdoms and empires. They learned to rule the peoples subject to them with great equity and charity, to foster the arts, and finally to govern the Chinese world—which has flourished for so many years in both peace and war—with the most holy institutions and laws.

Here, therefore, that very Confucius presents himself to you, GREAT KING, as if transported into France original: "in Gallias" by your care and royal generosity. He approaches, prostrating himself at Your Majesty's feet, to openly admire your wisdom. He comes to confess that his own wisdom—though celebrated with incredible fame and esteem among his own people—nevertheless yields to yours, just as the stars give way to the sun.

He will, I believe, be transfixed at the first approach and sight of you, rooted to the spot by both admiration and joy, having found for himself at last