| The third excerpt represents the element of Water. It speaks of pure spiritual influences and feelings of love, and is drawn from Rezanov by Gertrude Atherton: had it been otherwise; she, in spite of her fine intel-
lect and strong will, being all woman, as he, despite
his depth of intuition, was all man. Equality is
possible in no relation or condition of life. When
woman subjugates man the conquered will enjoy a
sense of revenge proportionate to the meanness of
his state.
It is possible that had Concha awaited Rezanov in
St. Petersburg her attraction would have focused
his desires irresistibly; but his mind had resigned
itself to the prospect of separation for a definite
Rezanov |
The fourth excerpt represents the element of Earth. It speaks of physical influences and the impact of the unseen on the visible world, and is drawn from Tao Teh King by Lao-tze: gains them for itself; and that small states, by abasing themselves to
a great state, win it over to them. In the one case the abasement
leads to gaining adherents, in the other case to procuring favour.
4. The great state only wishes to unite men together and nourish them;
a small state only wishes to be received by, and to serve, the other.
Each gets what it desires, but the great state must learn to abase
itself.
62. 1. Tao has of all things the most honoured place.
No treasures give good men so rich a grace;
Bad men it guards, and doth their ill efface.
2. (Its) admirable words can purchase honour; (its) admirable deeds
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