Chapter 159

As January was drawing to a close, a notice was posted outside the walls of the National Academy: "The Secretariat-Chancery proclaims: We, having inherited the ancestors' enterprise and nurturing the world's people, thirst for worthy men and yearn for talented individuals to assist the state. This coming Spring Examination concerns the rise or fall of the nation and the welfare of the people; it cannot be treated lightly. It is hereby decreed that the imperial examinations shall open on the tenth day of the second month and conclude on the nineteenth day. All scholars of the Great Song who possess the talent to manage the universe and the ambition to secure the state are permitted to sit for the examinations. Candidates must present their official credentials and wait outside the gates of the Tribute Examination Hall before the *chen* hour on the ninth day of the second month. Those who arrive late will not be admitted, in order to uphold the strict discipline of the examinations. The purpose of this Spring Examination is to select the worthy and capable, and to seek blessings for all the people. It is our hope that all scholars will strictly observe the examination rules and display their grand ambitions through true talent and learning.