The Way has investigation; virtue has basis. The ruler does not hear the essentials, so he merely imitates Yao, yet there is no way to demonstrate it. The Way and virtue are housed together, yet there is no means to assign them; righteousness does not conform to standards, yet there is no basis for change. If it is placed thus, although seemingly stable, it is not truly settled. There is a position for reliance at the beginning; names and titles are not abandoned. Therefore, those who hope to understand people do not contradict their feelings; those who hope to influence the world do not mislead their guests.

In the wilderness of literary rites, one shares principles with beasts; violent speech is akin to that of uncivilized tribes. A true gentleman is easy to be close to but difficult to be familiar with; he fears calamity yet finds it hard to refuse; he desires profit but does not act immorally; and he acts at the right time without acting recklessly. Though the body may find it comfortable, one dares not dwell there; only then does propriety arise. Though the heart may desire it, one dares not trust in it; only then does righteousness arise. Righteousness restrains desires and brings order, while propriety opposes emotions to distinguish them; therefore, a gentleman does not act according to his feelings directly.

In a chaotic age, crude intelligence is considered original thought, cunningness is regarded as the Way, and profit becomes emotion. If people do not share the same hatreds, they cannot be close; yet if they do share the same hatreds, there will be mutual resentment. Those who speak of benevolence are considered slanderers; those who act upon righteousness are seen as boastful. Even if one speaks with an impartial heart and tells the truth directly, there will still be those who do not believe it. Therefore, a virtuous person in a chaotic age is cut off from ease and has no way to communicate; being different from others, he has no means to explain himself — how bitter it is!

When a virtuous person hides in a chaotic age, above there are compliant rulers, and below there are no straightforward words; the ruler has arrogant conduct, and the people often avoid speaking openly. Therefore, people deviate from sincerity; capable individuals conceal their true feelings. Though their hearts may not approve, they dare not fail to praise. Though a cause may not be virtuous, one dares not refrain from exerting effort; though personal inclinations and rejections may not align, one dares not refuse to follow. Therefore, observing a virtuous person in a time of chaos, one must be cautious and not take his conduct as an indication of settled feelings.