Hān Koong Tsew, Or The Sorrows of Hān

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Oriental translation fund, 1829 - 18 pages
 

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Page 7 - Since the beauties were selected to grace our palace, we have not yet discovered a worthy object on whom to fix our preference. Vexed and disappointed, we have passed this day of leisure roaming in search of her who may be destined for our imperial choice. [Hears the lute.] Is not that some lady's lute ? Attendant — It is. I hasten to advise her of your Majesty's approach.
Page vi - ... might satisfy the most rigid admirer of Grecian rules. The translator has thought it necessary to adhere to the original in distinguishing by name the first act (or Proem) from the four which follow it : but the distinction is purely nominal, and the piece consists, to all intents and purposes, of Jive acts. It is remarkable, that this peculiar division holds true with regard to a large number of the
Page 5 - ... rest ! But not through our personal merits : we have wholly depended on the exertions of our civil and military rulers. On the demise of our late father, the female inmates of the palace were all dispersed, and our...
Page 8 - Majesty to remit their contributions and extend favor toward them ! EMPEROR. That shall readily be done. Approach and hear our Imperial pleasure. We create you a Princess of our palace. LADY. How unworthy is your handmaid of such gracious distinction ! [Goes through the form of returning thanks.] Early to-morrow I attend your Majesty's commands in this place. The Emperor is gone: let the attendants close the doors : I will retire to rest.
Page 10 - K'HAN. Whence could so beautiful a female have appeared in the world! If I can only obtain her, my wishes are complete. Immediately shall an envoy be despatched, and my ministers prepare a letter to the Emperor of Han, demanding her in marriage as the condition of peace. Should he refuse, I will presently invade the South: his hills and rivers shall be exposed to ravage. Our warriors will commence by hunting, as they proceed on their way; and thus gradually entering the frontiers, I shall be ready...
Page 9 - K'han of the Tartars, at the head of his Tribes. K'HAN. I lately sent an envoy to the sovereign of Han, with the demand of a princess in marriage ; but the Emperor has returned a refusal, under the plea that the princess is yet too young. This answer gives me great trouble. Had he not plenty of ladies in his palace, of whom he might have sent me one? The difference was of little consequence.6 Let me recall my envoy with all speed, for I must invade the South with our forces.
Page v - Though wit and art conspire to move your mind ; But dulness with obscenity must prove As shameful sure as impotence in love. In the fat age of pleasure, wealth, and ease, Sprung the rank weed, and thrived with large increase ; When love was all an easy monarch's care ; Seldom at council, never in a war...

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