Zhuge Liang paused while he bade the lad bring out a map. As this was unrolled Zhuge Liang went on, " There you see the fifty-four counties of the west. Should you wish to take the overlordship, you will yield the Heaven's favor to Cao Cao in the north, and you will relinquish the Earth's advantage to Sun Quan in the south. You, General, will hold the Human's heart and complete the trinity.Jingzhou is to be taken first as a home, the River Lands* next for the foundation of domination. When you are firmly established, you can lay your plans for the attainment of the whole empire."

As Zhuge Liang ceased his harangue, Liu Bei left his place and saluted him, saying, "Your words, O Master, render everything so clear that the clouds are swept aside and I see the clear sky. But Jingzhou belongs to Liu Biao, my kinsman, and Yizhou to another kinsman Liu Zhang. I could hardly take the lands from them."

" I have studied the stars and I know Liu Biao is not long for this world.Further, Liu Zhang is not the sort of man to endure. Both places will certainly fall to you."

Liu Bei bowed his acknowledgments. And so, in one conversation, Zhuge Liang proved that he, who had lived in complete retirement all his life, knew and foresaw the tripod division into which the empire was to break. True, indeed, is it that throughout all the ages no one has ever equaled his intelligence and mastery of the situation.

Behold, when Liu Bei frets that he is weak, Then Sleeping Dragon is not far to seek; When he desires to know how things will hap, The Master, smiling, shows him on the map.

"Though I be of small repute and scanty virtue," said Liu Bei, "I hope, O Master, you will not despise me for my worthlessness, but will leave this retreat to help me. I will assuredly listen most reverently to your words."

Zhuge Liang replied, "I have long been happy on my farm and am fond of my leisure. I fear I cannot obey your command."

Liu Bei wept. "If you will not, O Master, what will become of the people?"

The tears rolled down unchecked upon the lapel and sleeves of Liu Bei's robe.This proved to Zhuge Liang the sincerity of his desire.

Hence, Zhuge Liang said, "General, if you will accept me, I will render what trifling service I can."

Liu Bei was greatly delighted. He called in Guan Yu and Zhang Fei to make their bow and brought out the gifts he had prepared. Zhuge Liang refused all the gifts.

"These are not gifts to engage your services, but mere proof of my regard," said Liu Bei.

Then the presents were accepted. They all remained that night at the farm. Next day Zhuge Jun returned, and his brother said to him, "Uncle Liu Bei has come thrice to see me, and now I must go with him. Keep up the farm in my absence and do not let the place go to ruin. As soon as my work is accomplished, I will certainly return."